The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal government program designed to help Canadians who don't have access to private dental insurance get the dental care they need. If you live in Barrie and have been putting off dental care because of cost, the CDCP may be able to help — and Lakeside Smiles Dentistry is proud to be a CDCP Friendly Practice.
What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
The CDCP is a federal dental insurance program launched in 2024 to provide dental coverage to eligible Canadians. It's administered by Sun Life on behalf of the Government of Canada, and it covers a range of essential dental services for people who meet the income and eligibility requirements.
The program was introduced because millions of Canadians were going without basic dental care due to cost — leading to preventable pain, infections, and more serious health complications down the road. The CDCP aims to change that.
Who Is Eligible for the CDCP?
To be eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, you generally must:
- Be a Canadian resident with a valid health card
- File a tax return (the government uses your tax information to determine eligibility)
- Have an adjusted family net income under $90,000 per year
- Not have access to private dental insurance through an employer, school, or other benefits plan
Coverage levels are income-based:
What Dental Services Does the CDCP Cover?
The CDCP covers a broad range of dental services. Here's what's generally included:
Diagnostic Services
- Oral examinations and assessments
- Dental X-rays (bitewing and periapical)
- Consultations
Preventive Services
- Dental cleanings (scaling and polishing)
- Fluoride treatments
- Fissure sealants for children
- Space maintainers
Restorative Services
- Fillings (tooth-coloured and amalgam)
- Crowns (in some circumstances)
- Dentures (complete and partial)
Oral Surgery
- Simple extractions
- Surgical extractions (including wisdom teeth in some cases)
Endodontic Services
- Root canal treatment on eligible teeth
Periodontal Services
- Scaling and root planing for gum disease treatment
Note: The CDCP does not currently cover purely cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers for cosmetic purposes, or orthodontics (braces) in most cases. Coverage details can also change over time, so it's always best to confirm with your provider.
How to Apply for the CDCP
Applying for the CDCP is straightforward:
Check Your Eligibility
Visit the Government of Canada's official CDCP page at canada.ca to confirm you meet the income and insurance requirements.
Receive Your Invitation
The government sends invitations to apply based on tax return data. You may receive a letter by mail.
Apply Online or by Phone
Apply through My Service Canada Account online or call 1-833-537-4342.
Receive Your Coverage Card
Once approved, you'll receive a coverage card through Sun Life that you can use at participating dental providers — including Lakeside Smiles Dentistry.
Using Your CDCP Benefits at Lakeside Smiles Dentistry in Barrie
Lakeside Smiles Dentistry is a CDCP Friendly Practice. That means when we open August 2026 at 66 Dunlop St W in Downtown Barrie, we will accept CDCP coverage and help you maximize your benefits.
Our team will help you understand exactly what's covered before any treatment begins so there are no surprises. If you have questions about your specific coverage, bring your Sun Life CDCP card to your appointment and we'll look it up together.
CDCP Patient? We're Here for You.
Join our Founding Patient List and mention your CDCP coverage — we'll make sure you're set up before we open August 2026.
Join Our Priority List →Frequently Asked Questions — CDCP in Barrie
Yes — children under 18 are included in the CDCP if they meet eligibility requirements. This includes cleanings, X-rays, fillings, sealants, and fluoride treatments. Learn more on our Children's Dentist Barrie page.
Generally, no. If you have access to any private dental insurance through an employer or other plan — even if you haven't enrolled — you are not eligible for the CDCP. The plan is specifically for those without private coverage.
Yes — emergency services like extractions and treatment of dental infections are generally covered under the CDCP for eligible patients. See our Emergency Dentist Barrie page for more information.
Yes — Lakeside Smiles Dentistry is a CDCP Friendly Practice. We accept CDCP coverage and are happy to help new and existing patients use their benefits effectively.