Canadian Dental Care Plan Alberta: What Patients Need to Know
Posted: May 2, 2026 in
Yes — Woodcreek Dental Care accepts the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). If you’re an uninsured Alberta resident wondering whether you can use the federal dental benefit at our Woodbine clinic in Calgary SW, the answer is yes. Book through our regular booking page and let our front desk know you’ll be using CDCP coverage when you arrive.
The rest of this guide covers who qualifies, what the plan covers, and exactly how to use it at our clinic.
Does Woodcreek Dental Accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
Yes. We are a registered CDCP provider and direct-bill the plan on your behalf. You pay only your co-pay portion at the time of service — you don’t pay upfront and wait for reimbursement.
To use your CDCP coverage at Woodcreek Dental, bring your social insurance number to your appointment. We verify eligibility electronically through the federal system — no paper forms required.
Who Qualifies for the CDCP in Alberta?
The Canadian Dental Care Plan is available to Canadian residents who meet all of the following:
1. No private dental insurance
You must not have access to dental coverage through employment, school, a spouse’s plan, or any other private insurance. If you have coverage available to you but haven’t enrolled, you do not qualify.
2. Income eligibility
Based on your household’s adjusted family net income from your most recent tax return:
| Household Income | Coverage Level |
|---|---|
| Under $40,000 | 80% of eligible fees covered |
| $40,000 – $69,999 | 60% of eligible fees covered |
| $70,000 – $89,999 | 40% of eligible fees covered |
| $90,000 and over | Not eligible |
3. Tax filing
You must have filed a tax return. CRA uses your return to verify income — if you haven’t filed, apply after your next filing.
4. Not covered by provincial dental programs
If you’re already covered by an Alberta government dental program that covers the same services, CDCP does not apply as a primary plan.
Children under 18, adults 65+, and Canadians living with a disability were the first to enroll. As of 2025, the plan has expanded to all eligible Canadians.
What Does the CDCP Cover?
The plan covers a range of preventive and basic services. Coverage percentages apply to fee guide amounts — if the provider charges above the guide, you pay the difference plus your co-pay.
Covered:
- Oral exams and recall exams
- X-rays (bitewing, periapical, panoramic)
- Dental cleanings (scaling and polishing)
- Fluoride treatments and sealants
- Fillings (amalgam and composite)
- Simple extractions
- Emergency dental care
- Denture services (specific plan years apply)
- Some root canal treatments
- Limited periodontal (gum) treatment
Not covered:
- Teeth whitening and other cosmetic procedures
- Orthodontics (braces, clear aligners)
- Dental implants
- Most specialist-only procedures
- Services already covered by provincial programs
The services covered represent the core of what most patients need in a year — checkup, cleaning, x-rays, and basic restorative care. If you’ve been avoiding the dentist because of cost, this plan is designed specifically to remove that barrier.
How to Book a CDCP Appointment at Woodcreek Dental
- Confirm your eligibility — If you haven’t applied yet, visit canada.ca/dental or call 1-833-537-4342. You’ll receive confirmation of your eligibility and annual benefit amount.
- Book your appointment — Use our regular booking page. Let us know in the notes that you’ll be using CDCP coverage so we’re prepared.
- Bring your SIN — We verify your coverage directly with the federal system using your social insurance number.
- We handle the rest — We bill CDCP directly. You pay only your co-pay portion before you leave.
Book a CDCP Appointment at Woodcreek Dental
Frequently Asked Questions
Does CDCP replace provincial dental benefits in Alberta?
No. CDCP is for Canadians who have no private dental insurance and are not covered by a provincial program that covers the same services. If you’re on Alberta government benefits, you likely do not qualify for CDCP as a primary plan — though it may apply as secondary coverage in some situations.
What if my income changed this year?
Eligibility is based on your most recent assessed tax return. If your income dropped recently, you may now qualify. Re-apply or update through the CDCP portal once your return has been processed by CRA.
Can my whole family use CDCP?
Yes — if each family member meets the eligibility criteria independently (no private insurance, income threshold), they can each use the plan. Children may qualify regardless of the household’s income in some circumstances.
What if a treatment costs more than my annual benefit?
The CDCP has an annual benefit maximum that varies by age and income tier. You’re responsible for any costs above your covered amount. We’ll always let you know the estimated total and your portion before starting any treatment.
I haven’t been to the dentist in years. Can I still use CDCP?
Absolutely — and that’s exactly who this plan is designed for. We see many patients using CDCP for their first appointment in years. Our team is non-judgmental; what matters is getting your oral health back on track.
Book Your Appointment at Woodcreek Dental