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Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) in Calgary: Complete Guide for Patients
What is the CDCP?
The CDCP is a federal program that helps eligible Canadians pay for routine and urgent oral health care. It is administered by Sun Life on behalf of the Government of Canada. Providers who participate bill Sun Life directly for covered services; patients pay only their required share, if any.
This program helps Calgary families access essential dental care including:
- Dental exams and X-rays
- Teeth cleanings
- Fillings
- Root canal treatment
- Extractions
- Dentures
- Preventive dental care
Learn more about our dental services in NE Calgary.
Who Qualifies for the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
You may qualify if you meet all of the following:
- No access to private dental insurance (through an employer, pension or purchased individually).
- Canadian resident who filed your taxes for the most recent year.
- Adjusted family net income is below $90,000.
Your Cost Share (Co-Payment)
Your income determines how much the government pays versus what you pay at the visit:
- $0–$69,999: Federal plan pays 100% of eligible fees. You may face additional charges as described below.
- $70,000–$79,999: Federal plan pays 60%; you pay 40%. You may face additional charges as described below.
- $80,000–$89,999: Federal plan pays 40%; you pay 60%. You may face additional charges as described below.
- $90,000+: Not eligible.
Additional Charges
The CDCP fees may not be the same as what providers charge. You may have to pay fees in addition to the potential co-payment if:
- the cost of your oral health care services is more than what the CDCP will reimburse for these services
- you and your oral health provider agree to services that the CDCP doesn’t cover
Before receiving oral health care, you should always ask your oral health provider about any costs that won’t be covered by the plan. Make sure you know what you’ll have to pay directly to your oral health provider before accepting and receiving treatment.
Examples of Co-Payments and Additional Charges
Important: Some services have frequency limits or require prior approval. If a clinic does not accept CDCP fees, you could also owe the difference between their price and the CDCP maximums. Always confirm details before treatment.
What Dental Services Are Covered Under CDCP?
The CDCP covers a broad range of preventive, diagnostic, restorative and surgical services when they are clinically necessary, including:
- Exams & X-rays (including comprehensive exams and recall exams)
- Cleanings, polishing, fluoride and scaling
- Sealants for children and teens
- Fillings, root canal treatment, and tooth extractions
- Partial and complete dentures (some services require pre-determination)
- Periodontal care (gum therapy) and oral surgery when indicated
Cosmetic care such as teeth whitening, veneers, and most orthodontic treatments are not covered.
You can also explore our:
- Comprehensive Dental Exams
- Teeth Cleaning & Hygiene Services
- Root Canal Treatment
- Tooth Extraction Services
- Dentures in Calgary
How to Apply for the CDCP (Step-by-Step)
- Check eligibility on Canada.ca and gather your information (SIN, date of birth, and consent to use tax info).
- Apply online through My Service Canada Account (MSCA) or by phone if you need assistance.
- Watch for your approval letter from the Government of Canada. It includes your CDCP member ID, coverage start date, and your co-payment level.
- Sun Life enrollment: After approval, Sun Life mails your welcome package and member card.
- Book your appointment on or after your benefit effective date.
Tip: Never pre-pay the full amount expecting reimbursement. Sun Life does not reimburse patients directly for self-paid services. Providers must bill Sun Life.
Using Your CDCP Benefits at Jacksonport Dental in NE Calgary
At Jacksonport Dental (124-3730 104 Ave NE, Calgary), our admin team confirms your CDCP eligibility, start date, and co-pay before your visit so there are no surprises.
We:
- Verify your member ID and effective date
- Explain any frequency limits or pre-authorizations
- Provide written estimates that show your CDCP portion and any patient copay
- Bill Sun Life directly for covered services
Popular CDCP-Covered Dental Visits We Provide
- Comprehensive dental exam & X-rays for new patients
- Teeth cleaning & gum therapy based on your periodontal needs
- Children’s dental care: exams, cleanings, sealants, fluoride
- Urgent dental care: painful cavities, infections, extractions
- Restorative dentistry: tooth-coloured fillings and medically necessary root canals
- Dentures: complete and partial dentures (where eligible)
Helpful resources:
- Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)
- CDCP in Calgary: What Patients Need to Know
- How to Apply for the CDCP
- Complete CDCP Guide for Calgary Patients
What to Bring to Your First CDCP Visit
- CDCP approval letter (or your Sun Life card)
- Photo ID
- Medication list and relevant medical history
- Questions you’d like us to answer
Frequently Asked Questions About CDCP in Calgary
Can the CDCP work with other government programs?
Yes. If you’re eligible for another public oral health program, the CDCP may coordinate benefits.
Do I have to renew?
Yes. Coverage is renewed annually to confirm you still meet the requirements.
What if my clinic doesn’t accept CDCP fees?
Ask before your visit. Some clinics may charge above CDCP fee guides. At Jacksonport Dental we review all costs up front so you can make informed decisions.
Is teeth whitening covered?
No. Cosmetic services such as professional teeth whitening and veneers are not covered.
How soon can I be seen after I’m approved?
You can book for on or after the benefit effective date listed in your approval letter.
How Jacksonport Dental Makes CDCP Simple
- Local, family-friendly hours: Open 7 days a week, including Sundays.
- Clear estimates: We explain your CDCP coverage, co-pay, and any non-covered services.
- Pre-determinations handled: We help submit approvals when required.
- Comfort-first dental care: Gentle techniques for children, seniors, and anxious patients.
- Languages: English, Punjabi, Hindi & Urdu.
Serving NE Calgary Communities
Jacksonport Dental proudly serves patients across:
Ready to Use Your CDCP Benefits?
If you live in NE Calgary and need affordable dental care, our team is here to help.
Call: 403-815-3040
Website: jacksonportdental.ca
Book Online: Request an Appointment
Please have your CDCP member ID and start date handy.
