Canadian Dental Care Plan & IFHP

We Accept The CDCP & IFHP in Toronto

At Bloor Dental Health Centre, we see every day how much oral health impacts overall well‑being. Cost should never be the reason someone avoids seeing a dentist, which is why we welcome patients who are covered under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP).

The CDCP is a federal program created to make essential dental care more accessible for Canadians who do not have private dental insurance. If you qualify, the plan can help reduce the cost of many routine and necessary dental treatments, allowing you to focus on your health rather than your finances.

If you are enrolled in the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), remember you must reapply annually before June 1st to maintain eligibility.

CDCP Eligibility

Eligibility for the CDCP is based on a few key factors. The program is intended for Canadian residents who do not have dental coverage through work, a family member, a pension, or a privately purchased plan. You must also have filed your taxes in the previous year, and your adjusted family net income must be under $90,000. If these criteria apply to you, you may be able to receive coverage through the program.

Patients often ask what the CDCP actually covers. In general, the plan supports a wide range of preventive and restorative dental services. This includes exams, cleanings, X‑rays, fillings, gum care, root canal treatment, extractions, and certain major services such as crowns or dentures when they are clinically required. Coverage is based on your individual oral health needs and, in some cases, prior approval may be required before treatment begins.

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Senior couple talking with a doctor about their medical records while having consultations at clinic.

CDCP Coverage

How much the plan covers depends on household income. Those with lower incomes receive a higher level of coverage, while others may have a portion of the cost shared. It’s also important to note that CDCP fees are set by the program and may differ from standard dental office fees. For this reason, some treatments may involve an out‑of‑pocket portion. Our team will always review your treatment plan and any potential costs with you in advance, so there are no surprises.

If you believe you qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, applications are completed directly through the Government of Canada. Once enrolled, your coverage can be used here at Bloor Dental Health Centre. If you’re unsure where to start or have questions about how the CDCP works with your dental care, we’re happy to guide you through the process.

Common Questions About CDCP

Do I need to pay anything at my appointment?

Depending on your household income and the type of treatment, there may be a portion of the cost that is not covered by the CDCP. Our team will review this with you before treatment so you know what to expect.

Does the CDCP replace private dental insurance?

No. The CDCP is intended for patients who do not have access to private dental coverage. If you gain private insurance in the future, you would no longer be eligible for the program.

Can I choose my own dentist?

Yes. As long as your dental provider accepts CDCP coverage, you can receive care at the clinic of your choice, including Bloor Dental Health Centre.

What if I need treatment that isn’t fully covered?

If a recommended treatment falls outside of CDCP coverage or requires a co-payment, we will discuss alternative options and help you decide on a plan that works for your health and budget.

Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)

The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) provides temporary health and dental coverage for eligible newcomers to Canada, including refugees, refugee claimants, and protected persons. This program is designed to ensure access to essential care while individuals wait for provincial or territorial health insurance coverage to begin.

Under IFHP, dental coverage focuses on urgent and necessary care. This typically includes treatment to relieve pain, manage infection, and address dental conditions that cannot safely be postponed. The goal is to protect overall health during an important transition period, rather than to provide comprehensive or cosmetic dental services.

woman at the dentist
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Important Changes to IFHP

Beginning May 1, important changes to the IFHP will come into effect. While basic medical care such as doctor visits and hospital services will continue to be fully covered, dental care now falls under supplemental benefits that require cost sharing. This means patients will be responsible for 30% of the cost of eligible dental services provided under IFHP. Any applicable co‑payment is paid directly to the dental office at the time of your visit.

These changes are part of a broader update to the program and are important to keep in mind when planning your dental care. Understanding your coverage ahead of time can help avoid unexpected costs and allow for informed decisions about treatment.

If you are covered under IFHP and would like to book an appointment with us, we recommend bringing your IFHP documentation to your visit and letting our team know in advance. We can help confirm coverage details and explain any expected co‑payments before treatment begins.

At Bloor Dental Health Centre, we are committed to providing respectful, compassionate care to all patients. If you have questions about IFHP coverage or how the recent changes may affect your dental treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact our office, we’re here to help.

Common Questions About IFHP

What types of dental care are covered under IFHP?

IFHP dental coverage focuses on urgent and essential care, such as treatment for pain, infection, or conditions that could worsen without attention.

What does the 30% co-payment mean for me?

Starting May 1, IFHP patients are responsible for 30% of the cost of eligible dental services. This amount is paid directly to the dental office at the time of your appointment.

Is all health care affected by the new co-payment?

No. Basic medical services, such as visits to a doctor or hospital care, remain fully covered under IFHP. The co-payment applies only to supplemental services, including dental care.

What should I bring to my appointment?

Please bring your valid IFHP documents to every visit. Letting our office know in advance that you are covered under IFHP helps us confirm coverage and review any costs before treatment begins.