Good news for Canadians! The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is expanding in 2025 to make dental care more affordable and accessible. If you’ve been putting off dental visits due to cost, the CDCP might be just what you need. This program is designed for all Canadians in certain groups, such as seniors over 65, kids under 18, and low-income families. That said, it’s important to check if you’re eligible before applying. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about CDCP eligibility, including who can access this public dental program in 2025, how to apply, and what benefits different age groups can expect.
How to Apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan 2025
Applying for the CDCP is easy and can be done online through the Government of Canada website or by phone. You’ll need to provide your Social Insurance Number (SIN), net income, and confirm that you don’t have private dental insurance. Once you apply and get approved, you’ll receive a welcome package and benefit card, which you can use when booking appointments with participating dental care providers.
General Requirements for All Age Groups
No matter your age, there are a few things everyone must meet to qualify:
- You must live in Canada
- Have filed a tax return recently
- Have no access to employer or private dental insurance
- Meet the income limits (full coverage under $70,000, partial between $70,000 and $89,999).
If you’re unsure about your income or insurance status, you can use the Government of Canada’s online tool to check your eligibility quickly.
CDCP for Seniors +65 – Canada Dental Benefit for Adults
As of 2025, all seniors aged 65 and older can apply for dental coverage through the CDCP. This is a big step toward improving access to oral health care for older indigenous people, especially those on fixed incomes.
CDCP Eligibility and Benefits for Seniors
To qualify, seniors must be 65 or older and meet the other eligibility criteria mentioned earlier. Benefits for seniors include:
- Routine exams and cleanings
- X-rays
- Restorative dental services like fillings
- Root canals
- Extractions
- Dentures (partial and full)
- Preventive services like dental cleaning
How Seniors Can Apply for the Canada Dental Benefit
Seniors can apply either online via the CRA’s My Account or by calling the Government of Canada dental care line. Once approved, you’ll get a card in the mail, and you can schedule appointments with any dental provider that has joined the program. Make sure your dentist participates in the CDCP before booking.
Enjoy Affordable Dental Services Covered by CDCP with Smile Avenue Dentistry!
At Smile Avenue Dentistry, we’re already welcoming new patients covered under the Canadian Dental Care Plan. If you’re unsure how to apply or what services are included, feel free to call us or book a consultation; we’ll guide you from start to finish!
CDCP for Kids -18
Dental care for children is a top priority under the CDCP. Families can now get help covering the cost of routine and emergency dental care for their kids.
CDCP Eligibility and Benefits for Children and Teens
Children under 18 qualify if:
- They are Canadian residents
- Their parents or guardians have filed a tax return
- The family’s net income is under $90,000
- They don’t have access to private dental insurance
For kids, different dental services are covered, including exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, fillings, extractions, X-rays, and emergency dental procedures. This means healthier smiles and fewer dental problems later in life.
Application Process for Children Under 18
Parents or guardians must apply on behalf of their child through the CRA My Account, or by phone if you prefer a paper process. Once you apply and are approved, your child will receive a benefit card. Just bring it to your dental appointments.
CDCP Help for Low Income
The Canadian Dental Care Plan is built to support low-income families and individuals who struggle to afford dental care.
Low-Income Criteria and Eligibility
You may be considered low income if your family’s net income is below $70,000. People in this group are eligible for full dental coverage through CDCP. However, if your income is between $70,000 and $89,999, you can still apply, but you may have to co-pay a portion of the treatment cost. This program helps close the gap in access to oral care, so no one has to choose between their health and their wallet.
To make it more understandable, let’s check one example provided by the website of the Government of Canada:
Jane, with an adjusted family net income of $32,000 (under $70,000):
- Provider charges $145
- CDCP established fee is $134
- CDCP pays $134 to the provider
- Jane pays the remaining $11 (difference between the provider charge and the CDCP fee)
How Low-Income Families Can Access the Program
Low-income families can access the program by following these steps: make sure your tax return is filed, visit the CDCP application portal, provide your household income and insurance details, and wait for approval to receive your benefit card. You can also reach out to community centers or public Canada health offices for help with the application process or questions about eligibility.
Final Word
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is transforming access to dental care in 2025. Seniors, children, and low-income Canadians can now get the help they need to maintain a healthy smile without the financial stress.
At Smile Avenue Dentistry, we’re proud to support the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team is ready to help eligible patients access covered services under the CDCP, whether it’s routine cleanings, fillings, root canal treatment, or restorative dentistry in North York. If you’re already approved or planning to apply, we’ll walk you through your coverage and explain what to expect at your visit.
Book your appointment today or give us a call to ask about how the CDCP works at our clinic.
FAQ
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Is there a government dental plan for seniors in Canada?
Yes! As of 2025, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) includes coverage for seniors aged 65 and older. If you’re eligible, the plan can help cover the cost of dental services like cleanings, exams, fillings, and more.
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Do people over 65 pay for dental treatment?
It depends on your income. For uninsured Canadians over 65 with annual household income below $90,000, most or all dental costs are covered under the CDCP.
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What is the income limit for Canada’s dental benefit?
To qualify for the CDCP, your adjusted family net income must be under $90,000 per year. Those earning under $70,000 may get full coverage, while those earning between $70,000 and $89,999 receive partial coverage.
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How long does it take to get the Canada dental benefit?
Once you apply and your eligibility is confirmed, you’ll usually receive your benefit card within a few weeks. Processing times may vary, so it’s a good idea to apply early if you have upcoming dental appointments.
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Is dental care free for kids in Canada?
Under the CDCP, children under 18 may receive free or partially covered dental care depending on their family’s income. Services like cleanings, fillings, exams, and emergency treatments are typically included.
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Do children have to pay for private dental care?
If your child has private dental insurance through a parent or guardian, it will usually cover most routine treatments. But if you don’t have private insurance and qualify for the CDCP, your child can get public coverage instead, reducing or even eliminating dental costs.
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When to start dental care for children?
It’s recommended to take your child to the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in. Early visits prevent problems and make kids feel comfortable with dental care from the start.
Do you have questions about the CDCP or want to share your experience applying for the Canadian Dental Care Plan? Drop a comment below; we’re here to help and connect with our community!
