Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) 2026: Who’s Covered and How to Apply
Key impact: If your family earns under $90,000 per year and you don’t have private dental insurance, you can now get partial or full coverage for exams, fillings, crowns, and more through the federal Canadian Dental Care Plan. This could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket dental costs.
What is the CDCP?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan is a federal program that helps low- and middle-income Canadians pay for dental care. As of June 2, 2026, applications are open for the next benefit year.
What dental services are covered?
The plan covers:
- Diagnostic services: Exams, X-rays
- Basic services: Fillings, root canals
- Major services: Crowns, dentures
- Anesthesia
Not covered: Orthodontic services (braces, aligners)
How much will you get covered?
Your coverage depends on your adjusted family net income:
| Family Income | Coverage Level |
|---|---|
| Under $70,000 | 100% coverage |
| $70,000 – $79,999 | 60% coverage |
| $80,000 – $89,999 | 40% coverage |
Important: You must not have any private dental insurance to qualify.
Who is affected?
- Low-income families earning under $70,000 — you get full coverage for most dental services
- Middle-income families earning $70,000–$89,999 — you get partial coverage
- Canadians without private dental insurance — this plan is for you
- Canadians with private insurance — you are not eligible for the CDCP
What you should do
- Check your eligibility — Your family income must be under $90,000 and you must have no private dental insurance.
- Apply online — Visit the Government of Canada website to submit your application.
- Gather your documents — You’ll need your Social Insurance Number, tax information, and family income details.
- If you’re not eligible — Consider private insurance for dental and other health needs like prescription drugs, vision care, or paramedical services.
- Compare options — Private plans like Health Plus offer dental coverage starting at $129/month (PRIORITY plan) or $167/month (OPTIMUM plan), which also include travel emergency coverage and virtual healthcare.
Important limitations
- The CDCP only covers dental care — it does not cover prescription drugs, vision, or paramedical services.
- If you need broader health coverage, you may still need private insurance to fill the gaps.
Bottom line
The Canadian Dental Care Plan can significantly reduce your dental costs if your family earns under $90,000 and you don’t have private insurance. Apply now for the 2026 benefit year. But remember: the CDCP covers dental only. If you need prescription drugs, vision care, or other health services, consider a private plan to stay fully protected.