How to Apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP): A Step-by-Step Guide
Here at Courtice Family Dentistry we believe good oral health is essential to overall well-being, and the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) aims to make dental care more accessible to eligible Canadians. If you’re wondering how to apply for this plan in 2025, here’s everything you need to know.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, confirm that you meet the following criteria:
- You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- You filed your 2024 income tax return.
- You do not have access to private dental insurance (this includes coverage through your employer or a family member).
- Your adjusted family net income is less than $90,000.
Phased Application Rollout:
- May 1, 2025: Individuals aged 55 to 64
- May 15, 2025: Individuals aged 18 to 34
- May 29, 2025: Individuals aged 35 to 54
Coverage starts as early as June 1, 2025, depending on your application date.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To apply, you’ll need the following information and documents:
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Date of birth
- Full legal name
- Home and mailing addresses
- Information about any dental coverage through government programs (if applicable)(Healthy Smiles Ontario)(ODSP)(Ontario Works)
- Your 2024 Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
If you’re applying for a child who doesn’t have a SIN, you must provide their full name and date of birth.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
The fastest and most convenient way to apply is online. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official CDCP website at canada.ca/dental.
- Sign in or create a My Service Canada Account (MSCA).
- Fill out the application form with your personal information.
- Upload digital copies of your required documents.
- Review and submit your application.
Prefer the phone? You can apply through an automated phone service by calling 1-833-537-4342.
If neither by the website or by phone work for you, you can also visit your nearest Service Canada location.
Step 4: Wait for Confirmation
After submitting your application, you’ll receive a confirmation of enrolment from Sun Life, the administrator of the CDCP.
Within 8-12 weeks, you will be mailed a welcome package, which includes:
- Your CDCP member card
- Your coverage start date
Step 5: Use Your Coverage
Once enrolled, you can start using your dental benefits:
- Use Sun Life’s provider directory to find participating dentists.
- Confirm that your chosen dentist accepts the CDCP and can direct bill Sun Life.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan is a significant step forward in promoting oral health equity. Make sure you apply during your eligible period and gather all necessary documents ahead of time to ensure a smooth process.
At Courtice Family Dentistry we accept the CDCP and are more than welcome any CDCP plan holder as our new patient. If you have questions about the plan or your eligibility, don’t hesitate to reach out to Service Canada or visit the official website linked above.
Stay smiling, Courtice!
