Questions and answers on the Canadian Dental Care Plan

Press Release

Last May, the FNQLHSSC sent essential information about the new Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) to all its members. Following this communication, a few questions were raised. To better guide you in understanding the CDCP, the FNQLHSSC is answering these questions.

What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a new program that provides a limited range of dental care services to all Canadians, including First Nations.

There are certain eligibility criteria that must be met:

• You don’t have access to dental insurance.

If you have dental coverage through a federal government social program such as the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program, you may be eligible for the CDCP. However, if you have private dental insurance through your employer or pension plan, you will not be

• Your adjusted family net income is less than $90,000.
• You’re a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
• You filed your tax return for the previous year.

For more information, go to: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/dental/dental-care-plan.html

I am currently using the NIHB Program for my dental care. Do I have to register with the CDCP?

Registration with the CDCP is on a voluntary basis. The services covered by both programs are very similar. However, you should use the NIHB Program first if you are eligible.

The rates reimbursed by the NIHB Program sometimes differ from the amounts billed by providers. These residual costs will not be eligible for reimbursement by the CDCP. If a service is covered by the CDCP but not by the NIHB program, it can be submitted to the CDCP for payment.

How to apply for the CDCP?

Registration applications have been taking place in phases since December 2023. Since June 2024, individuals aged 65 and over and individuals aged 18 and under have been able to apply online. Starting in 2025, all Canadian residents will be allowed to apply.

To apply for the CDCP online, go to: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/dental/dental-care-plan/apply.html.

I received a letter for the CDCP in the mail. What should I do?

The registration application code provided to you in the letter expired on April 30, 2024. You can no longer use it. Please contact the CDCP directly by calling 1-833-537-4342 or complete your application online at https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/dental/dental-care-plan/apply.html.

Business hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. local time, from Monday to Friday.

IHT5