The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers a meaningful range of preventive and basic dental services for eligible seniors, but it does not cover everything. Some seniors may still have out-of-pocket costs depending on their income, the service provided, and the fees charged.
If you’re trying to figure out whether CDCP will cover your next dental visit, this breakdown gives you a clear, verified picture of what to expect before you book.
Who Qualifies for CDCP as a Senior?
To receive CDCP benefits, you must meet all of the following criteria as established by the Government of Canada:
- You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes
- You have filed your most recent tax return (the plan uses your adjusted family net income)
- You do not have access to private dental insurance
- Your adjusted family net income is under $90,000 per year
Enrollment is handled through Service Canada or Sun Life, which administers the plan on behalf of the federal government. You must be enrolled before receiving covered services.
What Does the CDCP Cover for Seniors in 2026?
The CDCP covers a defined list of services published by the Government of Canada as part of the plan’s fee schedule. As of 2025 and continuing into 2026, covered services for seniors include:
- Oral exams (periodic and recall)
- X-rays, within specified limits
- Teeth cleaning (scaling and polishing, within annual unit limits)
- Fluoride treatments
- Sealants on at-risk teeth
Basic restorative care
- Fillings (amalgam and composite)
- Tooth extractions
- Emergency palliative treatment for short-term pain relief
Periodontal care
- Basic scaling for gum disease, within unit limits
- Root planing
Denture services
- Complete and partial dentures
- Denture adjustments, relines, and repairs, subject to conditions in the fee schedule
For the full benefit grid, refer to the official CDCP covered services list on Canada.ca.
What Is Not Covered?
This is where many seniors are caught off guard. The CDCP does not cover:
- Dental implants
- Orthodontics, including clear aligners
- Cosmetic procedures such as whitening and veneers
- Services that exceed the annual or per-visit unit limits set by the fee schedule
It helps to call the office ahead of time so we can check what will and won’t be covered under your specific benefit level.
Covered vs. Not Covered: Quick Reference
| Service | Covered by CDCP? |
| Oral exam | Yes |
| X-rays | Yes, limits apply |
| Teeth cleaning | Yes, unit limits apply |
| Fillings | Yes |
| Tooth extraction | Yes |
| Gum treatment (scaling) | Yes, unit limits apply |
| Complete dentures | Yes |
| Denture repairs | Yes |
| Crowns | Yes, in certain cases; preauthorization required |
| Root Canals | Yes, conditions may apply |
| Dental implants | No |
| Orthodontics | No |
| Cosmetic whitening | No |
What Will You Still Owe? Co-Payments by Income
CDCP does not mean zero cost for most seniors. Your co-payment depends on your adjusted family net income:
| Adjusted Family Net Income | Government Pays | You Pay |
| Under $70,000 | 100% of CDCP-established fees | 0% |
| $70,000 to $79,999 | 60% of CDCP-established fees | 40% |
| $80,000 to $89,999 | 40% of CDCP-established fees | 60% |
| $90,000 or more | Not eligible | 100% |
Even with a 0% co-payment, you may still have an out-of-pocket cost if your dentist’s fee is higher than the CDCP-established fee.
Before Your Appointment: Four Practical Steps
- Confirm your enrollment through Sun Life or Service Canada before booking
- Confirm your dentist accepts CDCP patients and will bill Sun Life directly for covered services.
- Request a pre-treatment estimate for anything beyond a routine cleaning, so you know your co-payment before work begins
- Bring your CDCP member card or confirm your benefit information with the front desk when you arrive
Have Questions About Your CDCP Coverage?
We’re happy to help you understand your coverage before treatment begins. Our team can review your CDCP information, explain any expected out-of-pocket costs, and help you make an informed decision about your dental care.
If you’re due for an exam, cleaning, or have a dental concern you’ve been putting off, contact Smile Solutions Dental to book an appointment or speak with our team about your CDCP coverage.
