What is the CDCP?
Last reviewed November 7, 2026
The CDCP is the Government of Canada's dental coverage plan for residents who don't have access to dental insurance and whose adjusted family net income is under $90,000. The government decides who is eligible. Sun Life processes claims, and dental offices bill Sun Life directly for covered care.
Who does what
| Who | Role |
|---|---|
| Government of Canada | Runs the plan, sets the rules and decides eligibility each year. You apply and renew through Service Canada. |
| Sun Life | Administers claims for the government. It runs the CDCP Contact Centre (1-888-888-8110) and the CDCP Provider Search. |
| Your dentist, denturist or hygienist | Decides whether to accept CDCP patients, provides the care and bills Sun Life directly. |
How a visit works
- Get approved. Apply, then wait for confirmation that you are enrolled and for your coverage start date.
- Find a provider who accepts the CDCP. Ask when you call. Our directory shows clinics with evidence that they participate.
- Ask about costs before treatment. Confirm your co-payment level and whether the clinic charges more than the CDCP fee. See costs and extra fees.
- Get care. The clinic bills Sun Life directly. You pay only your co-payment, if any, plus any extra the clinic charges.
Only providers are reimbursed. If you pay the full bill yourself, the CDCP will not pay you back, so make sure the clinic bills Sun Life directly.
What the CDCP is not
- It is not private insurance, and it does not replace insurance you can already get through work, a pension or a health spending account. Having access to dental coverage, even if you never use it, generally makes you ineligible.
- It is not the same as provincial programs like Ontario's Healthy Smiles. Provincial or federal social-program coverage does not necessarily disqualify you; the plans may coordinate.
- It is not free for everyone. Your co-payment depends on your adjusted family net income.
Next steps
See whether you qualify with our four-question checker, or read how to apply.
Sources: Canadian Dental Care Plan; Who can qualify; Renew your coverage (canada.ca, pages dated September–October 2026).