At Fallowfield Dental, we’re committed to helping all Canadian residents access quality oral health care services. If you’re a senior wondering about dental coverage options, the new Canadian Dental Care Program (CDCP) offers financial help for routine dental care and more.
In this blog post, we’ll explain how the CDCP works, who qualifies, and how we at Fallowfield Dental, as an oral health provider participating in the program, can help you access care.
What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
The federal government launched the CDCP to give eligible Canadian residents better access to dental care. It covers various dental services, including dental cleanings, exams, oral surgery, fillings, partial dentures, and even some more advanced treatments like moderate sedation and deep sedation.
This program is especially designed for seniors, children under 18, and those with a valid federal Disability Tax Credit, and most recently, certain adults aged 18 to 34 without insurance. Eligibility criteria are based on adjusted family net income. If your household income or family net income is below a set amount, you may receive free dental care or copayment assistance to reduce costs.
Who Is Eligible for the CDCP?
If you’re a senior, you can apply for the CDCP if you:
- Are 65 years or older
- Are an eligible Canadian resident
- Have an adjusted family net income under $90,000 (from your tax return filed with the Canada Revenue Agency)
- Do not have access to private dental insurance or private plans that cover the same services
This includes family members who qualify through pension benefits, common law partners, and seniors receiving help from government social programs like the Ontario Disability Support Program or Healthy Smiles Ontario.
What Does CDCP Coverage Include?
The CDCP offers help for routine dental care like exams and cleanings, plus treatment for diseased teeth or oral surgery, such as the surgical removal of teeth. It covers work done by a participating dentist or other oral health providers in your area.
If you’re worried about costs for dental work, the CDCP can reduce or remove out-of-pocket fees, with payments sent directly to your dental provider.
How to Access Dental Care Through CDCP
- First, check if your preferred dental offices participate in the program. Fallowfield Dental is proud to be a CDCP oral health provider.
- You will need to submit your Social Insurance Number, a copy of your recent tax return, and proof of income.
- After approval, you’ll receive a welcome package and a determination letter with details about your coverage start date and available services.
- To book a dental appointment, contact us. We can also assist you in filling out paperwork or understanding your benefits.
- Some may qualify for direct payment options or have costs covered through employment benefits or a family member’s pension benefits.
What to Do If You Can’t Afford a Dentist in Ontario
If you have difficulty paying for dental care, even with CDCP or dental insurance, there are other options:
- Apply for public programs like Healthy Smiles Ontario or the Ontario Disability Support Program.
- Look for clinics run by professional or student organizations that may offer lower-cost care.
- Some private plans, like Sun Life, offer additional coverage you might use alongside CDCP.
- At Fallowfield Dental, we offer payment plans and help you navigate financial assistance options.
FAQs About the Canadian Dental Care Program for Seniors
What is the income limit for Canada’s dental benefit for seniors?
Seniors with an adjusted family net income under $90,000 may qualify for the CDCP. Full coverage is often available for those below $70,000.
What is the new dental program for seniors in Canada?
The CDCP is a federal program helping eligible seniors access oral health care through coverage of exams, cleanings, fillings, dentures, and more.
What does the CDCP cover?
It covers routine dental care, oral surgery, partial dentures, and some sedation services, provided by participating dentists and other oral health providers.
What to do if you can’t afford a dentist in Ontario?
Look into government programs like Healthy Smiles Ontario, seek clinics connected to professional or student organizations, or contact your dental provider to discuss payment options.
Why Choose Fallowfield Dental for Your CDCP Coverage?
At Fallowfield Dental, we’re proud to be an inclusive, family-friendly practice welcoming patients of all ages, including seniors using the CDCP. We accept a wide range of dental insurance plans and work closely with the Canada Revenue Agency and the Government of Canada programs to help you get the most from your benefits.
Our team is ready to support your oral health needs—from dental exams to oral surgery and everything in between. We want to make accessing dental care as easy as possible for you.
If you think you qualify or have questions about the Canadian Dental Care Program, CDCP coverage, or your dental appointment, please reach out to Fallowfield Dental. Let us guide you through your options and help keep your smile healthy and bright.
Contact Fallowfield Dental today to book your appointment. We look forward to welcoming you!