CDCP Canada Archives | Brookmere Dental Group

Dental Care Now Free in Canada? A Complete Guide to the CDCP Expansion

Monday, April 14th, 2025

We know dental care plays a crucial role in overall health. However, for many Canadians, the high cost of dental services is a significant barrier. In response to this issue, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is expanding in 2025, allowing millions more to access affordable or free dental care.

At Brookmere Dental, we believe everyone deserves access to quality dental care. We are also accepting the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) at our clinic. If you or a loved one qualifies for CDCP coverage, we’re here to make your dental journey simple and stress-free.

This expansion has led to an important question: Is dental care now free in Canada? While the new plan significantly reduces costs for many Canadians, it is not entirely free for everyone. This guide explains who qualifies, what services are covered, and how to apply for the CDCP in 2025.

What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan?

The CDCP is a federal government initiative to help uninsured Canadians access dental care at little to no cost. The plan covers many essential dental services, reducing financial barriers for low- and middle-income households.

What Does the CDCP Cover?

The CDCP covers a variety of preventative and restorative dental services, including:

Preventive care – Regular check-ups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and X-rays.
Basic dental treatments – Fillings, extractions, and root canals.
Restorative care – Crowns, dentures, and bridges.
Oral surgeries – Tooth extractions, gum treatments, and other surgical procedures.

While the plan covers many essential services, some treatments may not be included. You need to check with your dentist to confirm coverage details.

Who Qualifies for the CDCP in 2025?

As of May 2025, the CDCP is expanding to include more Canadians without private dental insurance.

These are the eligibility criteria:

Seniors aged 65 and older
Uninsured adults aged 18 to 64
Children under 18 from qualifying families are included in the plan.
Individuals with disabilities

To qualify, applicants must:

Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
Not have private dental insurance through work or personal plans.
Meet the income requirements set by the government.

Is Dental Care Completely Free Under the CDCP?

The CDCP aims to make dental care more affordable for everyone, but it is not entirely free. The level of coverage depends on household income.

Income-Based Coverage System:

Household income under 70,000 dollars – 100 percent coverage (free dental care).
Household income between 70,000 and 79,999 dollars – 60 percent coverage.
Household income between 80,000 and 89,999 dollars – 40 percent coverage.
Household income above 90,000 dollars – Not eligible.

This system ensures that low-income Canadians receive the most support, while middle-income individuals still benefit from reduced costs.

Apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan

If you qualify for the expanded CDCP, follow these steps to apply:

Application Process:

Check your eligibility – Visit the Government of Canada website for the latest requirements.
Submit your application – Applications will be available online and by mail starting May 2025.

Wait for approval – The government will assess your application to confirm eligibility and determine the level of coverage you qualify for.

Receive your CDCP benefit card – Once approved, you will receive a card at participating dental clinics.

How to Check Your Application Status Online?

Online: Log in to the Government of Canada’s website.
Phone: Call Service Canada at 1-800-277-9914 for updates.
Mail: Watch for official approval letters and coverage details.

How Will the CDCP Expansion Impact Canadians?

The expansion of the CDCP will have a significant impact on millions of uninsured Canadians, offering:

1. Greater Access to Affordable Dental Care

Before the introduction of the CDCP, many Canadians delayed or avoided dental visits due to cost. With this expansion, more people can receive regular check-ups and treatments, preventing serious oral health issues.

2. Reduced Out-of-Pocket Costs

Eligible individuals will save hundreds of dollars on dental procedures. Many low-income families will now have free dental care, while others will benefit from reduced rates.

3. Improved Overall Health

Good oral health is closely linked to overall health, reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and infections. Expanding access to dental care will help improve Canadians’ long-term well-being.

4. Support for Low-Income Families

Families struggling financially will now receive full or partial coverage, ensuring children and adults can maintain dental health without financial hardship.

5. Better Collaboration Between Dentists and the Government

With more dental professionals participating in the CDCP, the system will become more efficient and accessible for patients nationwide.

Conclusion

The Canadian Dental Care Plan expansion in 2025 is a significant step toward improving dental care accessibility and affordability in Canada. While dental care is not entirely free for everyone, an income-based system ensures that millions of uninsured Canadians can now access essential dental services with little or no cost.

Key Takeaways:

Uninsured adults aged 18 to 64 can apply starting in May 2025.
Income-based coverage ensures free or low-cost dental care.
Seniors, children, and individuals with disabilities remain eligible.
Preventative and restorative treatments are covered under the plan.
Canadians should apply as soon as applications open to benefit from the program.

If you or a family member qualifies for the CDCP, apply when applications open. For official updates and application details, visit the Government of Canada website.