The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is here to help more Canadians get the oral health services they need. The CDCP covers a wide range of services, including preventive care like exams from a qualified general dentist and cleanings, restorative treatments like fillings, and major work such as crowns and dentures.

The plan can make various treatments more affordable through a provider like Uxbridge Dental if you qualify. If you’re unsure whether what you need is covered, the best thing to do is talk to your dentist. They can determine what the CDCP will cover and what you’ll have to pay out-of-pocket.

What Is the CDCP?

The CDCP is a federal program that helps eligible Canadian residents without private dental insurance cover dental costs. Its main goal is to make oral health care more accessible. The plan is based on factors, like your household income and is designed to provide support for those who need it.

Preventive & Diagnostic Services Covered

The CDCP emphasizes preventive care to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy. When you visit a dentist under the plan, these are some of the first services you are likely to use to maintain your oral health.

Exams & Cleanings

Regular dental exams are key to maintaining your smile’s health. You can use the plan for services that help prevent problems before they start, such as:

• Dental exams and check-ups
• Teeth cleaning (scaling and polishing)
• Fluoride treatments

X-rays & Screenings

To get a complete picture of your oral health, your dental team needs to see what’s happening below the surface of your gums. The CDCP often includes coverage for diagnostic tools, like dental X-rays, which help spot issues that aren’t visible to the naked eye.

Fillings & Root Canals

When tooth decay or an injury damages a tooth, it cannot repair itself in most cases, you need treatment to fix it. The CDCP covers several common procedures to help restore your smile’s appearance and function.

Are Dental Fillings Covered?

Yes, fillings to treat cavities are a commonly covered service by the CDCP. The plan typically includes standard materials used to repair a tooth after the decay has been removed. Your dental team can talk you through the options that work best for your situation.

Root Canal Treatments

If you have a tooth that is badly infected or damaged, a root canal treatment can save it. The plan may cover this restorative service, though some treatments may require preauthorization—meaning the plan administrator approves the service before it occurs.

Crowns, Dentures, & Other Major Restorative Services

If you have more significant dental problems, the CDCP may cover major restorative work. You should know that these services often have specific conditions and may also require preauthorization.

Will The CDCP Cover Crowns?

Crowns are covered when medically necessary, though eligibility depends on clinical need and may require preauthorization. A dental crown is a cap that fits over a damaged tooth to restore its shape and strength. Your eligibility for a crown under the plan will depend on your specific clinical needs.

Removable Dentures & Other Services

The plan also includes coverage for other vital treatments, like removable partial dentures and complete dentures, which are helpful solutions for replacing missing teeth. Other services, such as tooth extractions, are also typically covered.

Limitations of the CDCP

While the CDCP is a great help, it does not cover everything. It is a good idea to know what isn’t included so you can plan accordingly.

Services Not Covered

The plan does not cover some dental services. These often include:

• Cosmetic procedures
• Orthodontic work
• Mouth guards

Discuss Your Options with Our Team

Depending on your adjusted family net income, the CDCP may or may not cover the entire portion of your bill. There may also be limits on how often you can receive certain services, such as cleanings or exams, within a specific timeframe. Your dentist can provide the answers you need about your coverage.

The team at Uxbridge Dental is here to help you navigate your options if you have questions about the CDCP or you’re ready to book an appointment.