Good oral health in childhood sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. But for many families, the cost of dental care is a real concern. Thankfully, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) makes it easier for families to access affordable or free dental services for kids. If you live in Scarborough and want to understand how this program helps children under 18, this guide will give you everything you need to know.
We believe no child should go without proper dental care. That’s why we’re sharing all the details about CDCP for kids Scarborough, its eligibility, covered services, and how you can apply.
Introduction to CDCP in Canada
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal program launched to improve access to dental services for Canadians who don’t have private insurance and meet income requirements. Administered through Sun Life, CDCP partners with participating dentists across Canada, including many in Scarborough.
For children, CDCP focuses on prevention and treatment, making sure they don’t suffer from avoidable dental problems. This initiative is part of Canada’s broader oral health program for kids and adults, aiming to reduce the financial barrier that prevents families from seeking care.
CDCP Eligibility for Children
Not every child qualifies automatically. The program sets eligibility criteria for CDCP under 18, mainly based on family income and insurance status. Here’s what you need to know:
- Age Requirement: Children must be under 18 years old.
- Income Requirement: The family income limit for CDCP is $90,000 annually. Families earning below this threshold may qualify.
- Insurance: Children cannot already have private dental insurance. However, they may still use CDCP even if they have access to provincial programs like Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO).
Quick example
Imagine a Scarborough family of four with a household income of $65,000 and no private dental plan. Their 12-year-old child would qualify for CDCP and be able to access preventive dental treatments through participating clinics.
What Services Are Covered under CDCP for Kids Scarborough?
The CDCP covered services for minors focus on both prevention and treatment. Coverage includes many services that parents often worry about paying out of pocket. It may also extend to more complex procedures depending on the child’s needs and the dentist’s assessment. In the table below, you can check the covered services.
| Preventive Care | Basic Services | Periodontal Services | Prosthodontic Services |
| Dental checkups | Fillings for cavities | Cleaning under the gumline | Complete dentures |
| X-rays and emergency exams | Root canals (on some teeth) | Treating abscesses | Partial dentures (requires pre-authorization) |
| Fluoride treatments | Tooth extractions | Bonding for mobile teeth (requires pre-authorization) | Denture repairs, relines, and rebases |
| Cleanings and scaling | Certain sedation services | Post-surgical evaluations (requires pre-authorization) | Complete immediate and overdentures (requires pre-authorization) |
| Sealants | Some oral surgeries | Non-surgical gum disease management | Placing lining in dentures for comfort and healing |
Orthodontic services are planned to be added to the program in 2025, which will be limited to medically necessary cases based on strict criteria. For more details, visit Canada.ca.
What Are the Differences Between the CDCP and HSO in Ontario?
Many parents in Scarborough are already familiar with Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO), a provincial program that also provides free dental care for kids in Scarborough. However, there are important differences when we compare CDCP vs Healthy Smiles Ontario.
| Feature | CDCP (Canada) | HSO (Ontario) |
| Coverage Area | Nationwide | Ontario only |
| Age Limit | No age limit | Under 17 |
| Income Limit | $90,000 family income | Based on provincial income scales |
| Administrator | Sun Life (federal) | Ontario Ministry of Health |
| Where Accepted | Participating CDCP dentists across Canada | Ontario-based dentists enrolled in HSO |
Your Child Is Welcome Here!
At Lawrence Dental Centre, our professional dentist in Scarborough ensures children receive gentle, child-friendly care while maximizing CDCP benefits.
How to Apply for the CDCP for Kids?
The CDCP application for children is straightforward and can be completed online through the Government of Canada’s website.
- Visit the official Government of Canada CDCP application portal.
- Fill in details about your child and family income.
- Provide proof of income when requested.
- Once approved, you’ll receive information from Sun Life, the program administrator.
Where to Find a Clinic that Supports CDCP in Scarborough?
If your child qualifies for CDCP, the next step is finding a dental clinic that supports the program. Not every dentist in Scarborough is enrolled, so it’s important to confirm before booking. When searching for clinics, you can:
- Call the dental office directly and ask if they accept CDCP.
- Check with Sun Life, the program administrator, for a list of participating providers.
- Look for online mentions of clinics that specifically advertise CDCP support in Scarborough.
At Lawrence Dental Centre, we are proud to be a participating CDCP dentist in Scarborough. Our team welcomes families using CDCP and provides comprehensive, child-friendly dental care under the program. From preventive treatments to emergency dental services, we ensure your child gets the best possible care while maximizing the benefits available through CDCP.
Join Families Enjoying CDCP for Kids Scarborough
The Canadian Dental Care Plan is a game-changer for families in Scarborough, ensuring kids under 18 have access to essential dental care. Whether it’s preventive cleanings, cavity fillings, or emergency services, CDCP makes it easier for families to keep their children’s teeth healthy.
With Lawrence Dental Centre, you don’t need to search further; our team at the children’s dentistry section is here to help your child maintain a healthy smile through CDCP coverage.
Ready to apply? Contact us today and let us help you through the process of CDCP for kids Scarborough.
FAQ
Can my child use CDCP and Healthy Smiles Ontario together?
Yes. While both programs provide dental coverage for kids, they work differently. CDCP is federal, while HSO is provincial. Depending on your eligibility, your child may be able to benefit from both programs, which helps cover a broader range of services.
What dental services are covered under CDCP for children?
The program covers preventive services (checkups, cleanings, fluoride), treatments (fillings, root canals, extractions), and emergency dental care. Specialized procedures may also be included based on individual needs.
How do I find a CDCP dentist in Scarborough?
Look for clinics listed as participating CDCP dentists in Scarborough. You can also ask directly when booking an appointment. At Lawrence Dental Centre, we proudly serve CDCP patients and welcome new families.
We’d love to hear from you! Do you have questions about CDCP or your child’s dental care in Scarborough? Drop your thoughts in the comments below; we’re here to help.
