Canadian Dental Care Plan or Individual Dental Insurance: What’s the Better Fit?

Have you heard about the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)? Starting June 1, 2025, this federal initiative is available to qualifying Canadians, offering more affordable dental care across the country. It’s a positive step forward—but naturally, it sparks a few key questions:  

Who can apply? What services are included? And does individual dental insurance still make sense? Let’s walk through the essentials so you can determine which option meets your specific needs.

 

Do I Qualify?

Eligibility for the Canadian Dental Care Plan is based on four main requirements: 

1. You do not have access to any other dental insurance (individual or group). 
2. You have completed your tax return for the previous year (as has your spouse, if applicable). 
3. Your adjusted family net income is less than $90,000 after taxes. 
4. You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes.

 

Please note: Enrollment in the CDCP is not automatic. You must apply each year and wait for approval before receiving treatment. Otherwise, your dental fees may not be reimbursed. According to the Canadian Dental Association, application processing may take up to three months.¹

 

What’s Covered by the CDCP?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers most essential and medically necessary dental treatments. However, the amount reimbursed depends on your income, and if a treatment isn’t covered, you’ll be responsible for the full cost. 

Covered treatments include: 

• Preventive and diagnostic care: exams, X-rays, cleanings, etc. 
• Basic care: fillings, root canals, gum treatments, extractions 
• Major care: crowns, dentures, oral surgery 
• Orthodontics: only when medically necessary

 

Income-based reimbursement rates:

Adjusted Net Family Income (After Tax)	Coverage Provided by CDCP (on eligible treatments)	Out-of-Pocket Cost
Less than $70,000	100%	0%
$70,000 to $79,999	60%	40%
$80,000 to $89,999	40%	60%

 

Is Individual Dental Insurance Still a Good Option?

Even if you meet the criteria for the CDCP, participation is optional. The ideal choice depends on your coverage needs and how frequently you visit the dentist. 

If you anticipate needing frequent care or more complex procedures, the CDCP may leave gaps, particularly when reimbursements are partial. That’s where individual dental plans, like those from Blue Cross Health^®, can shine. These plans offer customizable options with consistent coverage levels of 60% to 80%, regardless of income. Higher-tier plans may also include services not fully covered by the CDCP, such as orthodontic work. If flexibility and broader coverage are important to you, individual insurance might offer a better solution. 

Need some guidance? Our licensed experts are happy to help you evaluate your options and find the right plan.

 

Why Consider Health Insurance with Dental Benefits? 

If you’re looking for well-rounded coverage tailored to your lifestyle, health insurance is definitely worth considering. While Blue Cross Health offers optional dental coverage, its value goes far beyond that. By protecting your smile, you’re also safeguarding your overall well-being from life’s unexpected health challenges. 
 

With customizable plans, Blue Cross Health gives you access to an extensive network of health professionals—including physiotherapists, massage therapists, psychologists, optometrists, and more—based on the level of coverage you choose. 

Plus, two value-packed wellness programs are included at no extra cost: 

• InConfidence^®: Confidential advice and support covering legal, financial, mental health, and more. 
• Blue Advantage^®: Discounts on a variety of health, lifestyle, and wellness products and services.

 

Choosing Blue Cross Health means investing in more than just dental insurance—it’s a step toward better health.

Enjoy health coverage that feels good—and makes you smile.