The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a dental program designed to help millions of Canadians who don’t have dental insurance get the dental care they need. This is great news for many people, especially CDCP for seniors who often face extra health and money challenges. But with any new program, you might be asking, “How do I find a dentist who is part of this plan?” or “What should I look for?”
This guide will help you understand what to look for when you are finding a dentist who accepts the CDCP.
How to Find a Clinic Under the Canadian Dental Care Plan
The first step is to find approved CDCP dental clinics. It’s important to know that not all dental clinics are participating in this program. Just because a dentist is in your town doesn’t mean they are part of the CDCP network.
The best way to start your search is by using the official tools provided by the government and Sun Life, which manage the plan.
- Sun Life Provider Search: Sun Life has a special tool on its website just for CDCP members. You can search by your city or postal code to see a list of dental offices that have signed up to accept the CDCP. This is the most reliable way to find a dentist who is part of the plan.
- Ask Directly: When phoning a dental clinic to make an appointment, all you have to do is ask, “Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?” The staff will immediately be able to tell you if they are a part of the program and if they are accepting new patients with the CDCP.
What to Look For in a CDCP Dental Provider
Once you have your list of dental clinics that accept the CDCP, how do you choose which one to go with? Picking a CDCP dentist in SW Calgary is similar to choosing any other healthcare provider—you want a clinic that feels comfortable and is the right fit for your needs.
Below are a few things to consider
- Location: Is the clinic convenient for you? Is it close to where you live, or on a bus route?
- Services: The CDCP outlines many common dental procedures that will be covered, like cleanings, check-ups, fillings, and so on. Not everything is covered, however. Make sure to ask the clinic if they offer the specific services you think you may need. Some specialized procedures or cosmetic procedures may not have full coverage. This is why choosing a CDCP dental provider who clearly explains what is included and what isn’t is very important for planning your care.
- Co-payments: Depending on the income of your family, you may have to pay a small amount of the cost for your dental care. This is called a co-payment. It is also a good idea to ask the clinic staff about this in the beginning. They can assist you in discovering what your costs will be. Below is the table indicating how this works for dental plans for seniors and others.
| Adjusted Family Net Income | How much CDCP covers | How much you might pay (Co-payment) |
| Under $70,000 | 100% of the set cost | 0% |
| $70,000 to $79,999 | 60% of the set cost | 40% |
| $80,000 to $89,999 | 40% of the set cost | 60% |
This table is for general information. Always confirm with the clinic and your welcome package from Sun Life.
Important Things to Know Before Your Visit
Before your first appointment, it’s a good idea to have all your information ready.
- Your CDCP Member ID: After you apply and are approved for the plan, you will receive a welcome package from Sun Life. This package has your member ID and start date. Make sure you have this information handy. The clinic will need this to make sure your visit is covered.
- Talk About Your Needs: When you book your appointment, tell the clinic staff that you are a CDCP patient. This helps them prepare for your visit. At your appointment, talk to your dentist about your oral health needs. They can create a treatment plan that works for you and the plan’s rules. This is especially important when it comes to CDCP for seniors, as many seniors may need extra support with dentures, gum care, or ongoing treatment.
Why Dental Care is Important
Good oral health is important to the health of your body. Particularly for dental plans for seniors, good oral hygiene can help prevent other health conditions. Regular checkups and cleanings, which are covered by the CDCP, can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay. By finding CDCP dental clinics near you, you are taking a step towards positive health!
Protect Your Smile with CDCP Coverage!
At Wolf Willow Orchid Dental, we are proud to be a dental clinic that accepts the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Wolf Willow Orchid Dental continues to believe that every individual should have a healthy smile, and we are here to assist you in understanding your benefits and ensure you receive the care you require. We welcome new patients who are part of the CDCP and who are always looking for a caring, professional and fabulous dental team to assist you with their plan. Call us today.