Canadian Dental Care Plan
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a Government of Canada program that helps eligible Canadians access essential dental care. In certain medically necessary cases, the program also provides limited orthodontic coverage for eligible patients who meet specific criteria.
LEARN ABOUT CDCP COVERAGE FOR ORTHODONTIC CARE
Understanding the CDCP
HOW THE CANADIAN DENTAL CARE PLAN WORKS
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is designed to make essential dental care more accessible for eligible Canadians. If your household income is under $90,000 and you do not have private
dental insurance, you may qualify for partial or full coverage through the program. Orthodontic treatment is available only in limited circumstances for patients who meet strict medical eligibility requirements.
Coverage Based on Income
Coverage levels are determined using your adjusted family net income from your most recent tax return.
Limited Orthodontic Coverage
Orthodontic treatment is only covered when strict medical criteria are met and preauthorization is approved.
Eligibility Requirements
Patients must meet the program's eligibility requirements before receiving CDCP benefits.
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Household Income and Coverage Levels
Coverage under the CDCP is based on your adjusted family net income from your most recent tax return.
| Adjusted Family Net Income | CDCP Covers | You Cover (Co-payment) |
|---|---|---|
| Under $70,000 | 100% of eligible services at CDCP rates | 0% (you may still face additional fees) |
| $70,000 – $79,999 | 60% of eligible services at CDCP rates | 40% of CDCP rates |
| $80,000 – $89,999 | 40% of eligible services at CDCP rates | 60% of CDCP rates |
Note: Braces Doc may charge fees above the CDCP fee schedule. Any costs beyond the CDCP reimbursement are your responsibility. Please contact our office before treatment to confirm your coverage and any out-of-pocket costs.
Orthodontic Services Under the CDCP
WHAT ORTHODONTIC SERVICES MAY BE COVERED?
Orthodontic services under the CDCP are limited and require preauthorization. Coverage is available only for eligible patients who meet strict medical criteria. Covered services may include:
Orthodontic assessments when medically necessary.
Braces or
orthodontic appliances for severe, functionally impairing malocclusions based on the HLD Index.
Orthodontic treatment for eligible patients under 18 with severe, functionally impairing malocclusions.
Eligible treatment for adults with craniofacial anomalies, such as cleft lip or palate.
Important: Cosmetic orthodontics and general orthodontic treatment without a medical need are not covered under the CDCP. Please contact our office to determine whether your condition may qualify.
CDCP Eligibility
WHO CAN APPLY?
You may qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan if you meet all of the following requirements:
No access to private dental insurance through work, school, or private purchase.
You and your spouse or partner (if applicable) filed a Canadian tax return for the previous year.
Adjusted family net income is under $90,000.
You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
If you receive dental benefits through a government social program, you may still qualify. The CDCP coordinates benefits to help avoid duplicate coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
ANSWERS TO COMMON ORTHODONTIC QUESTIONS
Who is eligible for orthodontic coverage under the CDCP?
Orthodontic coverage under the Canadian Dental Care Plan is available only for eligible patients who meet specific medical criteria. In addition to qualifying for the CDCP, orthodontic treatment generally requires preauthorization and is limited to severe, functionally impairing malocclusions. Eligible treatment is typically available for patients under 18 or for adults with qualifying craniofacial anomalies, such as cleft lip or palate.
Does the CDCP cover braces for everyone?
No. The CDCP does not provide coverage for routine or cosmetic orthodontic treatment. Braces are covered only when strict medical requirements are met and the treatment receives preauthorization. Coverage is based on the patient's condition rather than cosmetic concerns, so not every orthodontic case will qualify under the program.
Will the CDCP pay the full cost of my orthodontic treatment?
Not necessarily. The amount covered depends on your adjusted family net income and the CDCP fee schedule. Even if your treatment qualifies, you may still have a co-payment or additional out-of-pocket costs if the treatment fee is higher than the CDCP's established reimbursement rates. Our team can help explain what costs may apply before treatment begins.
Do I need approval before starting orthodontic treatment under the CDCP?
Yes. Orthodontic treatment covered under the CDCP requires preauthorization. This means your orthodontic condition must be assessed and approved before benefits can be applied. Beginning treatment before receiving the required approval may affect your eligibility for coverage, so it's important to discuss your options with our team first.
How do I apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
Applications for the Canadian Dental Care Plan are completed through the Government of Canada's official website. Once approved, you'll receive information about your coverage, including your member ID, benefit start date, and co-payment level. After your coverage becomes active, you can schedule an appointment with our team to discuss your orthodontic needs and determine whether your condition may qualify for coverage under the program.
Questions About CDCP Coverage?
Our team is here to help you understand the Canadian Dental Care Plan, answer questions about orthodontic eligibility, and discuss your treatment options.
