The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) will expand in 2025, extending coverage to uninsured adults aged 18 to 64.
Health Minister Kamal Khera and Government Transformation Minister Ali Ehsassi announced that applications will open in May, with coverage beginning as early as June 1. The expansion is expected to provide access to dental care for millions of Canadians who do not have private insurance.
Applications will be staggered by age group, beginning May 1 for those aged 55 to 64, followed by 18- to 34-year-olds on May 15, and 35- to 54-year-olds on May 29. To qualify, applicants must not have access to dental insurance, must have filed a 2024 tax return, be a Canadian resident for tax purposes, and have an adjusted family net income below $90,000. Applications can be submitted online, by phone, or in person at a Service Canada Centre.
Current CDCP members must renew their coverage, with the renewal process beginning in March 2025. Members must file their 2024 tax return and obtain a Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency before submitting their renewal application.
The deadline for renewal is June 1, 2025. Those who fail to renew by this date will see their coverage end on June 30, with no reimbursement available for services received during a lapse in coverage, according to the CDCP.
Since its launch, the CDCP has approved 3.4 million Canadians for coverage, with 1.7 million already receiving care. The final phase of the rollout is expected to add 4.5 million more uninsured Canadians to the program, which already includes seniors, children, and individuals eligible for the Disability Tax Credit.
The CDCP functions similarly to private insurance, covering eligible dental procedures at set reimbursement rates. Nearly 98% of dental professionals, including dentists, hygienists, and denturists, are participating in the program.
To ensure a smooth transition for new applicants and those renewing, the federal government will send reminders and provide guidance on the process.
