Part 2: What the CDCP Covers, Costs, and How to Get the Most from Your Benefits
Now that you understand how to apply for the federal dental plan for seniors, the next question is usually:
“What happens after I’m approved?”
This is one of the most important parts of understanding the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP).
Many seniors mistakenly believe the federal dental plan pays for every dental procedure in full. While the CDCP provides valuable financial assistance, it’s important to understand how coverage works, what services may require approval, and why choosing a dental clinic that understands the program can make your experience much smoother.
At our New Westminster dental clinic, we believe informed patients make confident decisions. Let’s look at what you should know before booking your first appointment.
Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan Completely Free?
This is one of the biggest misconceptions.
The answer is:
Not always.
The CDCP helps reduce the cost of eligible dental treatment, but depending on your adjusted family net income, you may be responsible for a portion of the treatment cost.
Currently, there are three general contribution levels:
Adjusted Family Net Income Under $70,000
Many eligible services may be covered at the highest level under the CDCP fee schedule.
However, if your dentist’s fees are higher than the CDCP reimbursement amount or if a service isn’t covered by the plan, you may still have an out-of-pocket expense.
Adjusted Family Net Income Between $70,000 and $79,999
Patients may have a co-payment in addition to any difference between the CDCP fee schedule and the dentist’s fees.
Adjusted Family Net Income Between $80,000 and $89,999
Patients generally have a higher co-payment and may also be responsible for any additional fees not covered by the plan.
Your dental office should explain any estimated costs before treatment begins so there are no surprises.
What Dental Services May Be Covered?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan focuses on helping Canadians maintain healthy teeth and gums through preventive and restorative care.
Depending on your clinical needs and eligibility, services may include:
Preventive Dental Care
Preventive care helps stop dental problems before they become more serious.
This may include:
- Comprehensive dental examinations
- Routine dental checkups
- Professional teeth cleanings
- Fluoride treatments
- Dental X-rays
- Oral cancer screenings
- Preventive scaling and polishing
Regular preventive care often reduces the need for more complex treatment later.
Restorative Dentistry
If your dentist identifies tooth decay or damaged teeth, covered services may include:
- Tooth-coloured fillings
- Temporary restorations
- Treatment for broken teeth
- Certain crown-related procedures when clinically necessary (subject to CDCP criteria)
Every treatment recommendation is based on your oral health needs—not simply what’s covered by the plan.
Gum Disease Treatment
Healthy gums are essential for keeping your teeth.
If gum disease is diagnosed, treatment may include:
- Scaling below the gumline
- Root planing
- Ongoing periodontal maintenance
- Oral hygiene education
Treating gum disease early can help prevent tooth loss and improve overall oral health.
Dentures
Many seniors rely on dentures to restore their ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently.
Depending on your eligibility and clinical situation, the CDCP may assist with certain denture services, including repairs or relines. Some denture services require preauthorization and are subject to program criteria.
If you’re considering new dentures, your dentist can explain what may be covered before treatment begins.
Tooth Extractions
Sometimes a tooth cannot be saved because of extensive decay, infection, or fracture.
When removal is the healthiest option, extractions may be covered according to CDCP guidelines.
Your dentist will always discuss alternatives whenever appropriate.
Some Treatments Require Preauthorization
One area that often surprises patients is preauthorization.
Certain dental procedures require approval before treatment begins.
This helps confirm that:
- The treatment is medically necessary
- The service meets CDCP requirements
- Coverage has been approved
Examples may include certain major restorative procedures, specialty periodontal care, and some prosthodontic services.
Your dental office typically submits the required documentation on your behalf.
Choosing a Dentist That Accepts the CDCP
Not every dental office participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan.
Before scheduling an appointment, ask:
- Do you accept CDCP patients?
- Are you currently accepting new patients?
- Will you help explain my coverage?
- Can you estimate my out-of-pocket costs before treatment?
Choosing an experienced dental team can make navigating the program much easier.
At our family dental clinic in New Westminster, we believe patients should understand both their oral health and their benefits before making treatment decisions.
Common Mistakes Seniors Make
Many delays happen because of simple misunderstandings.
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid.
Waiting Until You Have Tooth Pain
Pain often means a problem has already progressed.
Preventive dental visits help identify issues before they become emergencies.
Assuming Everything Is Covered
Although the CDCP provides excellent assistance, not every procedure is covered in full.
Always ask your dental office for a treatment estimate before beginning care.
Forgetting to Renew Eligibility
Eligibility is reviewed annually.
Failing to renew on time could interrupt your coverage.
Keeping your tax filings up to date and responding promptly to renewal requests helps avoid delays.
Ignoring Gum Health
Many seniors focus only on cavities.
In reality, gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults.
Professional cleanings and regular periodontal assessments are essential for maintaining a healthy smile.
Why Preventive Dentistry Saves Money
One of the greatest benefits of the Canadian Dental Care Plan is that it encourages preventive care.
Think about it this way:
A professional dental examination and cleaning can identify a small cavity that requires only a simple filling.
Without regular care, that same cavity may eventually require:
- Root canal therapy
- A dental crown
- Tooth extraction
- Tooth replacement
Preventive dentistry helps preserve your natural teeth while reducing the need for more extensive procedures in the future.
That’s why regular dental visits remain one of the smartest investments you can make in your health.
Your Oral Health Is an Investment in Your Overall Health
Healthy teeth allow you to:
- Enjoy nutritious foods
- Smile confidently
- Speak comfortably
- Maintain social connections
- Improve your quality of life
Poor oral health has also been linked with challenges that can affect overall wellness, making routine dental care an important part of healthy aging.
Whether you’re 65 or 95, it’s never too late to improve your oral health.
A Caring Dental Team Makes All the Difference
Many seniors tell us they delayed dental care because they felt embarrassed or worried about what they might hear.
Our philosophy is simple:
No judgment.
No pressure.
Just compassionate, personalized care focused on helping you achieve a healthy smile.
Whether you’re visiting for a routine dental cleaning, replacing missing teeth, treating gum disease, or simply learning more about your CDCP benefits, our experienced team is here to answer your questions and support you every step of the way.
If you’ve been searching for a dentist in New Westminster who accepts the Canadian Dental Care Plan, we encourage you to contact our office to learn more about your options.
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want to continue reading? visit the FAQ section for the CDCP.
