Canadian Dental Care Plan

We're excited to welcome patients covered by the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) here at Dr. Michael Handler Dentistry in Scarborough. This wonderful federal government initiative is helping make dental care more affordable for eligible Canadians, and we're proud to be participating providers to support our community's oral health!

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Could the CDCP Be Right for You? Let's Check Eligibility

The CDCP is here to help Canadian residents who meet certain income guidelines and don't have access to private dental insurance. You might qualify if:

• Your adjusted family net income is less than $90,000 per year.
• You don't have access to private dental insurance or employer-sponsored dental benefits.
• You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
• You have filed your most recent tax return. (For 2025 applications, you must have filed your 2024 tax return).

Please note: Eligibility is determined directly by the federal government based on these guidelines.

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Applying for the CDCP: Your Timeline and How to Apply

Applications for the CDCP are opening up in stages based on age and other factors. If you meet the eligibility criteria, the next step is to apply directly through the official government channels.

CDCP Application Timeline (2025)

Applications for some groups are already open, with eligibility expanding through 2025:

Eligibility Group	Application Status / Opens
Aged 65 or older	Applications are open
Adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate	Applications are open
Children under 18 years old	Applications are open
Ages 55-64	Opens May 1, 2025
Ages 18-34	Opens May 15, 2025
Ages 35-54	Opens May 29, 2025

For those whose application opens in May 2025, coverage could potentially start as early as June 1, 2025, if your application is approved.

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Getting to Know Your CDCP Coverage

What Dental Services Are Covered?

The CDCP helps cover a variety of important dental services, following the CDCP Oral Health Benefit Grid. Covered services typically include:

• Preventive Care: Things like routine check-ups, cleanings (scaling and polishing), fluoride treatments, and sealants to help keep your smile healthy.
• Diagnostic Services: Including oral exams and X-rays to understand your dental health needs.
• Restorative Treatments: Such as fillings and crowns for when you need them.
• Endodontic Care: Like root canal treatments.
• Periodontics: Including deeper cleanings (scaling and root planing) for gum health.
• Prosthodontics: Covering complete and partial dentures, plus repairs and relines.
• Oral Surgery: Such as tooth extractions.

How Much Does the CDCP Cover? (Understanding Co-payments)

The CDCP is designed to lower costs, but it might not cover the entire cost of treatment for everyone. The amount covered depends on your adjusted family net income:

• Adjusted Family Net Income below $70,000: The CDCP is expected to cover 100% of the cost based on the CDCP fee schedule for covered services.
• Adjusted Family Net Income between $70,000 and $79,999: The CDCP is expected to cover 60% of the cost based on the CDCP fee schedule for covered services. You would be responsible for the remaining 40% (a co-payment).
• Adjusted Family Net Income between $80,000 and $89,999: The CDCP is expected to cover 40% of the cost based on the CDCP fee schedule for covered services. You would be responsible for the remaining 60% (a co-payment).

The percentage of costs covered is based on the CDCP's specific fee schedule, which might be different from typical provincial dental fee guides.

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Keeping Your CDCP Coverage Active

To make sure your CDCP coverage continues without a break, you'll need to successfully renew your application each year. Your eligibility is checked annually based on your updated income and whether you have private insurance.

• The annual renewal period usually starts in March.
• Please aim to renew by June 1st each year for continuous coverage.

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Booking Your Appointment with CDCP Coverage

Once your CDCP application is approved, you'll receive a welcome package from Sun Life, the plan administrator. This package will contain important details about your coverage and your member information.

When you're ready to book your visit with us at Dr. Michael Handler Dentistry, please:

• Let our friendly administrative team know you are a Canadian Dental Care Plan member when you book.
• Have your CDCP member details handy.
• Be aware that there might be co-payments depending on your income level.
• Understand that coverage is subject to the CDCP's specific guidelines and fee schedules.

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Ready to Visit Us?

If you're an approved CDCP member and ready to book your appointment, or if you have general questions about using your CDCP coverage at our clinic, please feel free to get in touch with us today!