If you’re booking an appointment through the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), you probably have a few questions. After all, navigating new government dental programs can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re thinking about coverage, eligibility, and what dental services are included.
To help, we’ve put together a guide on the top questions to ask your CDCP dentist in Ottawa before your appointment. Asking the right things ahead of time makes it easier to understand your coverage, your options for treatment, and how your dental expenses may be handled. This way, you can focus on your oral health and enjoy a welcoming visit at our Ottawa dental clinic.
In short: check what services are covered, ask about your coverage start date, and review if your existing dental benefits or private insurance overlap with the CDCP. From there, your dentist can provide a custom treatment plan that balances your dental needs with your coverage.
What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
The CDCP is a new government dental benefit managed by Health Canada to make oral health care services more accessible for eligible Canadian residents. Coverage is based on adjusted family net income, so some patients may qualify for partial or even free dental care.
The plan covers a broad range of oral health services, such as preventive care, routine cleanings, fluoride treatments, endodontic services (like root canal treatments), periodontal services, oral surgery services, and even some orthodontic services. Cosmetic dental services like teeth whitening are usually not included.
Why Ask Questions Before Your Visit?
Every patient’s situation is unique. Some may have existing dental coverage through private dental insurance, employment benefits, a professional or student organization, or a family member’s pension benefits. Others may qualify for other government dental programs like Healthy Smiles Ontario, the Ontario Disability Support Program, or the Disability Tax Credit.
That’s why it’s important to ask questions up front. Your dentist can explain how your dental insurance coverage, government dental programs, and CDCP all fit together. That way, you know what’s covered, what co-payment might apply, and how we can help provide quality dental care without surprises.
Top Questions to Ask Your CDCP Dentist in Ottawa Before Your Appointment
Here are some helpful questions you can bring to your dental provider:
- What services are covered under the CDCP coverage?This helps you understand if your treatment, such as oral surgery, periodontal services, or dental implants, is included.
- Will my existing dental coverage affect CDCP?If you already have private insurance or employment benefits, it’s important to check how those fit with the CDCP.
- Do I need to pay anything up front?Some treatments may require a co-payment, while others are billed directly under the plan. Ask about the usual and standard fees and if there’s any balance left to pay.
- What is my coverage start date, and how long is the approval process?Your welcome package from Sun Life, the CDCP administrator, will outline details like your coverage start date. It helps to confirm this before your appointment.
- What happens if I need emergency dentistry or services that are not covered?Knowing this ahead of time means no surprises if urgent care happens unexpectedly.
- Can I create a custom treatment plan?Ask your dentist how your CDCP coverage fits into a personalized dental care plan that supports both your oral health and your financial comfort.
Caring for Your Dental Health Beyond Coverage
While dental coverage is important, the foundation of good oral health is still daily habits. Brushing, flossing, and scheduling routine cleanings all help prevent tooth decay and poor oral health.
At our Ottawa dental clinic, we’re committed to providing personalized dental care and a welcoming environment for the entire family, whether you’re seeking routine care, cosmetic dental services, or treatment through the CDCP.
FAQ
What questions should you ask your dentist?
Ask about what’s covered, if you’ll have a co-payment, how CDCP works with existing dental benefits, and what treatment options are available for your dental health.
How long does it take for CDCP approval?
Approval depends on your eligibility criteria and application. Once approved, you’ll receive a welcome package from Sun Life outlining your coverage start date and details.
How to prepare for a dentist appt?
Bring your CDCP information, any details about your dental insurance coverage or employment benefits, and a list of questions about your dental care. Maintaining good oral hygiene before your appointment is always helpful.
Is CDCP based on income?
Yes. The dental care plan CDCP uses adjusted family net income as reported to the Canada Revenue Agency to decide who qualifies and how much coverage they receive.
Supporting Families with Personalized Dental Care
At Fallowfield Dental, our goal is to make dental care accessible and comfortable for every patient. With a broad range of various dental services, from preventive care to oral surgery and even emergency dentistry, we’re here to support your dental health at every stage.
If you’re interested in learning more about the CDCP or booking an appointment, our team is ready to help you and your family get the quality dental care you deserve.