CDCP FAQs

What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

At Britannia Dental Centre, we're dedicated to keeping Ottawa's residents smiling bright! If you're seeking clarity on the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), you've come to the right place. Let's break it down.

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), a federal initiative, extends coverage to Canadian residents lacking dental benefits and with a household income under $90,000 annually. However, it's essential to note: the CDCP isn't a free dental program but a valuable government dental benefit.

Designed specifically for individuals without existing dental coverage, the CDCP complements rather than replaces benefits offered through employment, educational institutions, or private plans. Managed by Health Canada and administered by Sun Life, it aims to bridge the gap in dental care accessibility.

At Britannia Dental Centre, we believe in empowering our community with knowledge about available dental resources. Remember, eligibility and coverage decisions for the CDCP aren't made by dental professionals like Dr. Parsa, but rather by governing bodies.

If you have questions or seek further guidance regarding the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) or any dental concerns, our team is here to assist you every step of the way. Let's work together to ensure you receive the dental care you deserve!

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a proposed government initiative aimed at providing dental care coverage to Canadians who do not have access to dental insurance. It is part of the federal government's efforts to make dental care more affordable and accessible, especially for low- and middle-income individuals and families.

The CDCP is designed to help cover routine dental care costs, such as exams, cleanings, fillings, and X-rays, for people who meet specific eligibility criteria, which may include income thresholds or lack of existing dental benefits. The program is intended to address gaps in dental coverage across Canada, ensuring that more citizens receive necessary dental treatments without facing significant financial barriers.

The plan is part of the larger federal healthcare reform and is still evolving as the government works with provincial and territorial partners to implement it. The full details of the plan, including the exact coverage and eligibility, are expected to be rolled out in phases over the coming years.

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is helping make the cost of dental care more affordable for eligible Canadian residents.

Applications now open for:
  • Seniors aged 65 and over
  • Children under the age of 18
  • Adults with a valid federal Disability Tax Credit certificate for 2023

For further details, visit the Canada.ca website.

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How to Determine Your Eligibility for CDCP

If you're wondering whether you qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), we're here to help you navigate the process.

The federal government is currently reaching out to the first groups of eligible citizens to provide information on the application process. If you haven't received a letter by May, it's possible that you may not be eligible, or at least not yet.

To confirm your eligibility, visit the official government website:

Check Eligibility on Government Website

Stay informed about your eligibility status and take advantage of the resources available to you. If you have any questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to our team at Britannia Dental Centre. We're here to support you every step of the way.

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How much does the CDCP cover? Will my dental care be free?

No. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) does not offer free dental care. It's a government dental benefit that assists in covering a portion of your dental expenses. Patients may be responsible for paying the remaining costs that are not covered.

Patient co-payments under the CDCP are determined based on their adjusted family net income:

  • No co-payment for CDCP benefits if your adjusted annual family net income is under $70,000.
  • A 40% co-payment for CDCP benefits if your adjusted annual family net income falls between $70,000 and $79,999.
  • A 60% co-payment for CDCP benefits if your adjusted annual family net income ranges from $80,000 to $89,999.

Britannia Dental Centre will bill our usual and standard fees. Apart from the potential co-payment, patients may also be required to cover any portion of our usual fees not covered by the CDCP.

Prior to scheduling your dental appointment, discuss the treatment costs with Dr. Parsa , including any expenses not covered by the CDCP.

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What services will be covered under the CDCP?

Dr. Parsa's Dental Care in Ottawa is here to guide you through the services covered under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Understanding these services is crucial for maximizing your dental benefits.

  • Scaling (cleaning), polishing, sealants, and fluoride treatments
  • Comprehensive examinations and X-rays
  • Fillings and root canal therapies
  • Complete and partial removable dentures
  • Oral surgery procedures, including extractions

It's important to note that some services may require preauthorization, necessitating prior approval based on Dr. Parsa's recommendations. Your Dr. Parsa will assess whether the proposed treatment falls under CDCP coverage. Services requiring preauthorization will be available starting November 2024.

For a comprehensive list of all covered services, visit the CDCP Dental Benefits Guide.

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Can the CDCP replace my existing dental coverage through work or school?

No. The CDCP is designed for Canadian residents who do not have dental benefits. To qualify for the CDCP, you must not have access to any type of dental insurance or coverage through:

  • Employer-provided benefits, including health and wellness accounts for yourself or family members
  • Professional or student organizations
  • Pension benefits (for previous employers or family members), unless retired before December 11, 2023, and unable to opt back in under pension rules
  • Privately purchased coverage or through group plans from insurance or benefits companies

Important to note: If you're eligible for dental coverage through employment benefits or an organization, you're ineligible for the CDCP, regardless of usage.

Employers are now required by the Canada Revenue Agency to report dental insurance coverage on T4/T4A forms, ensuring transparency for employees and their families.

Dr. Parsa emphasizes the importance of evaluating existing coverage before considering CDCP enrollment. Cancelling current coverage could lead to unforeseen costs, as CDCP care may prove more expensive than private insurance. Understand all details and costs to make the best decision for you and your family.

For comprehensive eligibility details, visit canada.ca/dental.

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Will I lose my dental coverage at work when the CDCP comes out?

We don’t know and this should concern us all.

Currently, two-thirds of Canadians enjoy dental coverage through their employment, educational institutions, or group plans. These plans afford individuals the freedom to choose their dentist and dictate their dental care.

We believe that the CDCP should improve access to care for people who don’t have benefits. The CDCP should not take away dental benefits that people already have.

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