The Canadian Dental Care Plan in Burlington: Your 2026 Guide to Free & Low-Cost Dental Care
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read

If you've been putting off the dentist because of cost, 2026 might be the year that changes.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is now fully open to every eligible Canadian, and applications for the 2026-2027 benefit year open June 2, 2026. For families across Burlington and Oakville without private dental insurance, that can mean free or low-cost cleanings, checkups, fillings, and more. Here's exactly how the plan works, whether you qualify, and how to use it at Dental Edge Burlington.
What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
The CDCP is a federal program that helps uninsured Canadian residents afford essential dental care. It launched in 2024 and rolled out in phases, starting with seniors, then children and people with disabilities. As of 2026, that rollout is complete: any Canadian who meets the eligibility criteria can apply, regardless of age. The goal is simple, to make sure cost isn't the reason someone skips the care they need.
Do You Qualify? CDCP Eligibility in 2026
To qualify for the CDCP, you must meet all four of these requirements:
You're a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
You've filed your most recent tax return (your 2024 return counts for the 2026 benefit year).
Your adjusted family net income is under $90,000.
You don't have access to private dental insurance through an employer, a pension, or a spouse or partner's plan.
One thing to watch: having access to a workplace plan counts even if you are not actually enrolled in it.
How Much Will You Pay? CDCP Income Tiers
What you pay out of pocket depends on your adjusted family net income:
Under $70,000: no co-pay. Covered services are provided at no cost to you.
$70,000 to $79,999: you pay up to 40% of the cost, and the CDCP covers the rest.
$80,000 to $89,999: you pay up to 60% of the cost.
One honest heads-up: the CDCP pays based on its own national fee guide, which can be lower than a clinic's regular fees. Even in the no-co-pay tier, a small balance may remain on certain services, so always ask your dental office to confirm costs before treatment.
What Does the CDCP Cover?
The plan covers a wide range of everyday dental services, including:
Routine exams, cleanings, and scaling
X-rays and diagnostic imaging
Fillings and other restorations
Tooth extractions and minor oral surgery
Root canals and additional treatments (some need pre-approval)
Certain procedures require pre-authorization before they are covered, so it is worth checking ahead.
Key 2026 CDCP Dates to Know
June 2, 2026: applications open for the 2026-2027 benefit year (July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027).
The current benefit year (June 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026) is closed to new applicants.
Already a member? Coverage does not renew automatically. You must renew each year, and your eligibility is reassessed from your latest tax return.
If you have been waiting to apply, mark June 2 on your calendar.
How to Apply for the CDCP
File your most recent income tax return (the program verifies income through the CRA).
Apply online at canada.ca/dental or by phone through Service Canada.
Watch for your confirmation letter, which lists your coverage start date.
Book with a participating dentist. Only services on or after your start date are covered.
Using Your CDCP Coverage in Burlington
At Dental Edge Burlington, we welcome patients using the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Whether you are overdue for a cleaning, need a filling, or it has simply been a while since your last visit, our team will help you understand what is covered and what to expect before any treatment begins. Visit our CDCP page or contact us to confirm your coverage and book your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About the CDCP
Does Dental Edge Burlington accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
Yes. We are happy to welcome patients using their CDCP coverage. Reach out and our team will walk you through the details before your visit.
Is the CDCP really free?
For families with an adjusted net income under $70,000, there is no co-pay on covered services. Because the plan pays from a set fee guide, a small balance can remain on some treatments, so we will always confirm costs with you first.
Can I use the CDCP for a checkup and cleaning?
Yes. Routine exams, cleanings, and X-rays are among the most commonly used CDCP services.
Can my kids use the CDCP?
Yes. Children under 18 are eligible as long as your family meets the criteria, since the plan is now open to all age groups.
Is emergency dental care covered?
Yes, emergency treatment is covered. If you are in pain, contact a participating clinic right away.




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