CDCP in Alberta: A Plain-Language Guide for Families

Since its rollout began in 2023, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) has generated a lot of questions — and understandably so. Federal benefits programs are rarely simple, and the CDCP is no exception. Who qualifies? What does it actually cover? How do co-pays work? And what do you need to do at the dental office?

This guide answers all of those questions in plain language, with specific information for Alberta families who are considering using their benefits at Alces Dental.

The Canadian Dental Care Plan is a federal government program designed to provide dental coverage to Canadians who do not have private or employer dental insurance and whose family income falls below $90,000 per year.

It is administered by Sun Life Financial on behalf of the federal government. Eligible Canadians receive a benefit card and member number from Sun Life, which they use when booking and attending dental appointments at registered providers.

Alces Dental is a registered CDCP provider. We submit claims directly to Sun Life on your behalf — you pay only your applicable co-pay, if any, at the time of your appointment.

To be eligible for the CDCP, you must meet all of the following criteria:

• **Canadian resident** with a valid provincial or territorial health card

• **Filed a tax return** for the previous year (eligibility is income-tested through the CRA)

• **No dental insurance** — this includes employer group plans, private insurance, and most government-sponsored insurance (Veterans Affairs, NIHB, etc.)

• **Adjusted net family income below $90,000 per year**

Final eligibility is determined by the federal government through Service Canada — not by your dental office. To apply, visit **canada.ca/dental** or call **1-833-537-4342**. Approval is typically confirmed by mail or through your My Service Canada account.

Your share of the cost — your co-pay — depends on your adjusted net family income:

Under $70,000: 0% co-pay — treatment is fully covered by CDCP

$70,000–$79,999: 40% co-pay — CDCP covers 60%

$80,000–$89,999: 60% co-pay — CDCP covers 40%

$90,000 and above: Not eligible

At Alces Dental, we will always confirm your estimated co-pay with you before any treatment begins. We believe in complete financial transparency — no surprises.

The CDCP covers a broad range of dental services, including:

Preventive care: Exams and check-ups, X-rays, cleanings and scaling, fluoride treatments, sealants

Restorative care: Tooth-coloured fillings, crowns, dentures and partial dentures, root canals, extractions

Diagnostic services: Comprehensive oral exams, diagnostic imaging, periodontal assessments, oral cancer screening

Limited orthodontic services: Orthodontic assessments for children, space maintainers

It is important to note that some elective or cosmetic treatments may not be covered. If you are unsure whether a specific treatment is covered under your plan, we can help you check before we begin. We submit pre-authorisations to Sun Life for significant treatments so you know exactly what to expect.

Using your CDCP benefits at Alces Dental is straightforward:

1. **Apply and get approved** — through Service Canada at canada.ca/dental or by calling 1-833-537-4342

2. **Receive your Sun Life benefit card** — it arrives by mail once approved

3. **Book your appointment** — call us at (780) 784-9007 or book online. Let us know you are a CDCP patient when scheduling

4. **Arrive and bring your card** — we will handle all direct billing to Sun Life. You pay only your co-pay, if any

That is it. We handle the paperwork so you can focus on your care.

"My child has CDCP — can you see them too?"

Yes. Eligible family members each have their own CDCP coverage. Children and adults can both be treated at Alces Dental under the CDCP.

"I was on CDCP but recently got a job with benefits. Am I still eligible?"

No. The CDCP is specifically for Canadians without private or employer dental insurance. If you gain coverage through employment, you are no longer eligible for the CDCP and should notify Service Canada.

"Can I choose which treatments I have under CDCP?"

Within what the plan covers, yes. We will discuss your treatment needs and the coverage that applies. You always have the choice to decline any recommended treatment.

If you have questions about whether you qualify, what your specific plan covers, or how to use your benefits at Alces Dental — please give us a call. Our patient care team is always happy to walk you through the process.