The Canadian Dental Care Plan helps lower-income families, seniors, and children get necessary dental treatments.
Using the Canadian Dental Care Plan in Kelowna helps you get basic dental care without a large financial burden. This program focuses entirely on health-related treatments rather than cosmetic work.
Let us look at what the plan covers and how you can use your benefits.
What Services Are Covered Under the Program?
The plan covers essential services needed to keep your mouth healthy and free of pain.
- Checkups and Exams – Regular checkups, emergency exams, and digital X-rays are covered.
- Cleaning and Prevention – Routine cleanings, tartar scraping, and fluoride treatments are included.
- Basic Restorations – Standard tooth-colored fillings and silver fillings are covered to fix cavities.
- Root Canals and Gum Care – Treatments to fix infected inner nerves and basic gum disease care are included.
- Oral Surgery – Simple and complex tooth extractions are covered if a tooth cannot be saved.
Financial Cost-Sharing Tiers Based on Family Income
| Net Family Income | What You Pay | What the Plan Covers |
| Under $70,000 | 0% of the plan fee | 100% of the plan fee |
| $70,000 to $79,999 | 40% of the plan fee | 60% of the plan fee |
| $80,000 to $89,999 | 60% of the plan fee | 40% of the plan fee |
When Is Prior Approval Required for Treatments?
Basic treatments like cleanings and fillings can be done right away, but major procedures require approval from the program before work begins.
- Crowns – Placing porcelain caps over severely damaged teeth requires an approval request with X-rays.
- Dentures – Getting new full or partial dentures to replace missing teeth requires prior approval.
- Sedation – Using deep sedation for complex oral surgeries requires proof of medical necessity.
- Finding a Registered Provider – Booking an appointment with a participating dentist near you ensures that all your approval forms are sent in correctly.
How to Apply and Access Your Program Benefits
- Check Your Eligibility – You must file your taxes every year, live in Canada, and have no private dental insurance.
- Get Your Card – Once approved by Service Canada, you will receive a welcome package and a benefits card from Sun Life.
- Find a Participating Clinic – Call the clinic before you book to confirm they accept patients under the federal plan.
- Bring Your Card – Show your Sun Life benefits card to the front desk team upon arrival.
- See Your Clinician – Meeting with a dentist in Kelownaallows you to plan your treatments according to the plan’s specific rules.
Managing Small Differences in Treatment Fees
The federal plan pays set rates that might be lower than the standard fees in British Columbia. If a dental clinic charges the standard provincial rate, you may have to pay the remaining balance out of pocket.
Checking with a provider of a Canadian dental care plan near you helps you understand whether there are any extra fees before you start treatment.
Optimize Your Oral Health with Reliable and Accessible Care
Using this public program helps you keep your teeth healthy and pain-free.
At Mission Park Dental, we work with federal guidelines to help you use your benefits easily. We offer a professional and welcoming environment focused on your long-term wellness.
Call our dental clinic today to schedule your next appointment, or reach out now to get started!
FAQs
Does the plan cover cosmetic treatments, such as teeth whitening or veneers?
No. The plan does not cover cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening, veneers, or adult braces. It only covers treatments that are needed for oral health and daily function.
Are dental implants covered under this plan?
No. Dental implants are not covered. The plan may cover other tooth replacement options, such as partial or full dentures.
Do I need to renew the dental plan every year?
Yes. You must file your taxes each year so your eligibility can be checked. You may also need to renew the plan online or by phone annually.
Can I use this plan if I already have dental insurance through work?
No. People who already have dental insurance through work, a pension, or another program are not eligible for this plan.