Are You Covered?

Many Canadians have dental insurance through their employer, union, or professional association. Others purchase individual or family plans directly from private insurers.
These plans help cover a portion of the cost for dental care, such as checkups, cleanings, fillings, and other treatments. The amount covered and the share you pay, known as the co-payment, varies by plan.

For example, a plan may pay 80% of the cost for preventive services and 50% for major procedures. Always review your plan booklet or contact your insurance provider to confirm:

• What procedures are covered

• Annual maximums or deductibles

• Claim submission requirements

If you do not have private dental insurance, you may be eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) , a federal initiative to improve access to oral health care for Canadians with lower and middle incomes.

The program is being introduced in phases, with eligibility based on household income and other criteria. The CDCP helps reduce the cost of basic dental services for those who qualify.

For current information, including eligibility and enrolment details, visit the Government of Canada’s CDCP webpage.

In addition to national programs, each province and territory administers its own public dental programs. These typically focus on specific populations, such as:

• Children and youth

• Seniors

• Individuals or families with low incomes

• People with disabilities

Coverage levels and eligibility vary across jurisdictions. To learn more, visit your provincial or territorial health ministry’s website or contact a local public health unit.