Professional dental care is paramount for overall health, but dental services are often unaffordable for many Canadians.
According to recent data, 32% of Canadians do not have dental insurance, and this percentage rises to 53% among adults aged 60 to 79. The government proposed the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) for low-earning families to ensure equitable dental care access.
Key Takeaways
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- Dental services can be costly, and many Canadians can’t afford them.
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- To ensure equitable dental care access to Canadians, the government proposed a dental plan for low-earning families.
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- The government has laid out conditions that you must meet to be eligible.
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- You must use the benefit to pay for dental care.
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- Dentists are a huge part of the Canadian Dental Care Plan’s overall success.
What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan, or the Canadian Dental Benefit (CDB), is a comprehensive plan implemented by the federal government to provide direct, up-front, tax-free payments for dental care expenses. The benefit is designed for families with an annual income of less than $90,000.
Dental care is crucial to overall health. Untreated dental issues can lead to severe health problems, including heart disease, diabetes complications, and respiratory infections.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan aims to mitigate these risks by providing financial assistance to those who need it most. The program’s inception was driven by the recognition that financial barriers prevent many Canadians from accessing necessary dental care, resulting in preventable health issues and exacerbating health inequities.
Canadian Dental Care Plan Payment Structure
The benefit provides payments based on family income:
| Family Income | Payment per Child per Year |
|---|---|
| $70,000 and below | $650 |
| $70,000 – $79,999 | $390 |
| $80,000 – $89,999 | $260 |
• $650 per child per year for families with an adjusted net income of $70,000 and below.
• $390 per child per year for families with an adjusted net income between $70,000 and $79,999.
• $260 per child per year for families with an adjusted net income between $80,000 and $89,999.
The payments are intended to cover a range of dental services, including exams, X-rays, dental cleanings, dental fillings, and more (see below). These services are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing more severe dental problems down the line.
By providing these payments upfront, the Canadian Dental Care Plan reduces the financial burden on families and ensures that children receive timely and necessary dental care.
Eligibility Check for the Canadian Dental Care Plan
Families must apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
To be eligible, the child must:
• Be under 18 years old.
• Not have access to private dental coverage.
• Receive dental care in Canada between October 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024.
The parent or guardian must:
• Have an adjusted net income under $90,000 per year.
• Confirm out-of-pocket dental expenses and use the CDB to cover these expenses.
• Have filed a 2022 income tax return.
• Receive the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) for the child.
• Provide details of recent or planned dental care expenses.
The eligibility criteria are designed to ensure that the benefit reaches those who need it most. By targeting families with lower incomes and no private dental coverage, the Canadian Dental Care Plan addresses a significant gap in the current healthcare system. Additionally, by requiring applicants to file a recent tax return, the plan ensures that only those who genuinely meet the income criteria receive the benefit.
CDCP Eligibility Criteria Overview
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Child Age | Under 18 years old |
| Dental Coverage | No access to private dental coverage |
| Time Period | Dental care received in Canada between Oct 1, 2023 – Jun 30, 2024 |
| Family Income | Adjusted net income under $90,000 per year |
| Parent/Guardian Requirements | Filed 2022 income tax return, receiving Canada Child Benefit, confirmed dental expenses |
Step-By-Step Application Process for the New Canadian Dental Care Plan
Eligible parents and guardians can apply for the CDB starting December 1, 2023. Applications can be submitted by calling 1-800-715-8836 or online through Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) My Account.
Application Process & Timeline
Required steps include:
| Step | Action Required | Deadline/ Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | File 2022 taxes for both parents | Before applying |
| Step 2 | Ensure CRA My Account access | Before applying |
| Step 3 | Confirm enrollment in Canada Child Benefit | Before applying |
| Step 4 | Set up direct deposit with CRA | Before applying |
| Step 5 | Submit the application | Starting Dec 1, 2023 |
| Step 6 | Receive payment | 5 business days (direct deposit) / 10-12 business days (cheque) |
Payments are processed within five business days for direct deposit and 10 to 12 business days for cheque payments.
The application process is straightforward and designed to minimize administrative burdens on families. By providing multiple application methods, including phone and online options, the Canadian Dental Care Plan ensures that all eligible families can access the benefit regardless of their preferred communication method or technological capabilities.
The quick turnaround time for payments further alleviates financial stress, allowing families to promptly address their children’s dental needs.
The Benefit Coverage of the Canadian Dental Care Plan
Dental Services Covered Overview
The Canadian Dental Care Plan covers various dental services, including:
| Service Type | Some General Services |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic Services | Exams, X-rays |
| Preventive Services | Cleanings |
| Restorative Services | Fillings, Crowns |
| Endodontic Services | Root Canals |
| Periodontal Services | Deep Cleanings |
| Oral Surgery Services | Extractions |
| Prosthodontic Services | Dentures |
| Orthodontic Services | Braces |
| Adjunctive Services | Anesthesia, Sedation |
These services encompass a wide range of dental care needs, from routine check-ups to more complex procedures. The comprehensive coverage ensures that families can address any dental issues their children may face without worrying about the cost. This approach not only improves individual health outcomes but also contributes to the overall health of the population by preventing the spread of dental-related diseases.
The Role of Dental Providers
The success of the Canadian Dental Care Plan heavily relies on the participation of dental providers. As of now, close to 19,000 oral health providers are participating in the CDCP by offering a wide range of services, such as cleanings, fillings, and dentures, representing more than 75% of active providers in Canada.
The involvement of a significant number of dental providers across the country ensures that families have access to the necessary dental services regardless of their location.
At The Dental Team, we are dedicated to making this process seamless for you. We encourage families to verify if their preferred dental provider participates in the plan before receiving services. This verification helps avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses and ensures smooth processing of benefits.
Addressing Barriers and Enhancing Access
Despite the comprehensive coverage, the Canadian Dental Care Plan does not cover the full cost of dental services in all cases. For households earning less than $70,000 annually, the plan covers nearly 100% of eligible services at the CDCP’s specified fees, which may differ from the provider’s charges. Families with incomes between $70,000 and $89,999 will receive partial coverage, necessitating co-payments for the remaining costs.
This tiered approach to coverage ensures that the benefit is distributed equitably, providing the most support to those with the greatest financial need.
At The Dental Team, we understand the importance of clear communication from both the government and dental providers to manage expectations and avoid financial surprises. Our team is here to help you navigate these details and make the most of your benefits under the Canadian Dental Care Plan.
The Future of the Canadian Dental Care Plan
The Canadian Dental Care Plan is being rolled out in phases. Currently, it covers children under 18 years old, seniors, and individuals with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate. By 2025, the plan aims to extend coverage to all eligible Canadian residents.
This phased approach allows the government to refine the program based on initial feedback and ensure its long-term sustainability. As the plan expands, it is expected to benefit up to nine million Canadians who currently lack dental insurance. The gradual implementation also provides an opportunity to address any operational challenges and improve the program based on real-world experiences.
Ensure Your Family’s Dental Health with the Canadian Dental Care Plan
The Canadian Dental Care Plan is a hugely beneficial plan by all standards. It gives citizens an equal opportunity for good dental health, which is vital for a country’s overall health.
This benefit alone, though, is not enough. Reliable, quality dental care is critical for the plan’s overall success. The good news is that there’s an excellent team of dentists available across multiple locations throughout Ontario.
The Dental Team has years of experience in all areas of dental care, and with 10 locations across Ontario, we’re ready to help you with all your dental needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with a dentist, and we’ll be glad to discuss how we help you.
Quick CDCP Links
Canadian Dental Care Plan FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
Who is eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
Families with an annual income under $90,000, children under 18 years old, and those without private dental coverage are eligible for the plan.
What dental services are covered by the plan?
The plan covers diagnostic services, preventive care, restorative treatments, endodontic services, and more. This includes exams, X-rays, cleanings, fillings, and extractions.
How do I apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
Applications can be submitted online through the CRA My Account or by calling 1-800-715-8836.
When will I receive the payment after applying?
Payments are typically processed within five business days for direct deposit and 10 to 12 business days for cheque payments.
Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan cover adults?
As of now, the plan covers children under 18, seniors, and individuals with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate. The plan is expected to expand by 2025 to cover all eligible Canadians.
Can I pay for my dental care upfront and get reimbursed by the CDCP?
No, participating dental providers must submit claims directly to Sun Life, and patients cannot be reimbursed under the CDCP.
What if my dentist does not participate in the CDCP?
If your dentist is not part of the CDCP, you can still receive treatment, but the costs won’t be covered by the plan. It’s recommended to check with Sun Life for participating dentists.
Does the CDCP replace my existing dental coverage through work or school?
No, the CDCP is for individuals without any existing dental benefits. If you have dental insurance through work, school, or a private plan, you are not eligible.
How does the CDCP differ from private dental coverage?
The CDCP offers standardized coverage with co-payments based on family income, whereas private plans may provide more customizable options and direct reimbursement for claims.
For more detailed information about the program, please visit the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) page on the Government of Canada’s official website.
