Creek View Dental Is Now Accepting the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)

For many individuals and families in St. Catharines, the biggest barrier to maintaining good oral health hasn’t been fear of the dentist—it’s been lack of dental coverage. Without insurance, even routine appointments like cleanings, exams, and X-rays can be difficult to afford. As a result, many people put off visits for months or even years, often waiting until dental issues become painful or urgent.

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a major step forward in making essential dental care more accessible. Today, we’re proud to announce that Creek View Dental is now an approved CDCP provider, and we are welcoming new and existing patients who qualify for the program.

If you or your family have avoided the dentist because of cost, this new plan may finally make it possible to get the care you need—comfortably, safely, and affordably.

Who Is Eligible for the CDCP?

Eligibility for the Canadian Dental Care Plan is based on four key requirements. To qualify, you must meet all of the following:

1. You do not have access to dental insurance.

This includes insurance through:

• Employment benefits or a family member’s benefits
• A professional or student organization
• Pension benefits (with some exceptions)
• Dental coverage purchased privately or through group plans

Even if you decline or don’t use available coverage, you are still considered to “have access” and therefore would not be eligible.

Exception: You may qualify if you are retired and opted out of your pension’s dental benefits before December 11, 2023, and cannot opt back in.

2. You (and your spouse/partner, if applicable) filed your Canadian tax return.

If your spouse or partner lives outside Canada and does not file taxes here, you are not eligible for the CDCP. For more information on calculating your adjusted family net income, click here.

3. Your adjusted family net income is below $90,000.

This number is based on your most recent tax return and includes both partners’ income, with some adjustments for UCCB and RDSP payments or repayments.

4. You are a Canadian resident for tax purposes.

All four requirements must be met to qualify.

How Much Will the CDCP Cover?

The amount covered by the CDCP depends entirely on your adjusted family net income.

• If your income is below $70,000:
  The CDCP will cover the full cost of eligible dental services per its fee guide. You may still have to pay a small amount if your treatment costs more than what the CDCP reimburses, or if you choose services that the plan doesn’t include.
• If your income is between $70,000 and $79,999:
  The CDCP will cover 60% of the cost of eligible services. You would be responsible for the remaining 40%, plus any additional fees if the provider’s rates exceed CDCP coverage amounts.
• If your income is between $80,000 and $89,999:
  The program will cover 40% of eligible treatment costs. You would pay 60%, along with any additional charges not covered under the plan.

No matter your income level, the CDCP reimburses providers directly. This means you should not need to pay the full cost upfront, though you will be responsible for any co-payment or additional charges not covered by the plan.

At Creek View Dental Clinic, we’ll always explain costs clearly before any treatment so you know exactly what to expect.

How to Apply for the Canadian Dental Plan (CDCP)

In order to apply for CDCP, you will need to sign into or create your My Service Canada Account. To create an account for the first time, you will need to enter your:

• Social Insurance Number (SIN)
• Date of Birth
• Full legal name
• Home and mailing address
• Details of any dental coverage through government programs
• Your most recent Notice of Assessment from CRA

Once you are signed into your My Service Canada Account, you may apply for the CDCP by locating “Canadian Dental Care Plan” at the top of the page on your dashboard and clicking “Apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan”. Then simply follow the prompts to complete your application.

Once approved, you will receive a benefits card and can begin accessing CDCP-covered dental services – including at Creek View Dental.

Why This Matters for St. Catharines Families

Here at Creek View Dental, we see firsthand how delayed dental treatment often leads to more serious issues, such as infections, broken teeth, gum disease, and emergency dental visits. By accepting the CDCP, our goal is to:

• Remove financial barriers
• Support individuals and families without insurance
• Promote preventive oral health care
• Help more residents confidently access the dental care they deserve

Whether you need a routine cleaning or help with a more urgent concern, the CDCP can make essential dental care more accessible.

How Creek View Dental Supports CDCP Patients

We make the process easy by offering:

• Direct billing to the CDCP
• Clear explanations of what is and isn’t covered
• Upfront conversations about co-payments or extra charges
• Friendly support through eligibility and plan details
• Convenient appointment options for St. Catharines residents

CDCP Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I know if I qualify for the CDCP?

If you do not have any dental coverage, have filed your taxes, are a Canadian resident, and have an adjusted family net income under $90,000, you likely qualify. Our team can help you understand the requirements.

2. Does the CDCP cover all treatments?

The plan covers many routine and essential dental services, but not everything. Some treatments may involve co-payments or additional fees if the provider’s rates exceed CDCP reimbursement limits.

3. Will I have to pay anything out of pocket?

Possibly. Your income level determines how much the CDCP covers, and you may also pay extra if a procedure costs more than the plan's fee guide or if you choose services that aren’t included.

4. Can seniors in St. Catharines use the CDCP?

Absolutely—many local seniors qualify, especially those without access to dental benefits through pensions.

5. How do I book my first appointment as a CDCP patient?

Simply tell us you’re covered by the CDCP when booking. We’ll handle the rest.

Your Oral Health Matters — Let Us Help You Care for Your Smile

If you live in St. Catharines or the surrounding area and think you may qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Our team is ready to answer your questions, verify your eligibility, and provide the dental care you deserve.

Call Creek View Dental or book your appointment online today. We’re welcoming new CDCP patients now!