Covered Smile is a separate, independent booking service. We don’t run the plan or decide eligibility. Rules can change; use the Government of Canada website for current details.
Visit the Government of Canada plan pageWho can qualify?
You need to meet all four requirements:
- No access to private dental insurance. This includes coverage through your work, a spouse or family member, a pension, a student or professional organization, or insurance you purchased. Access counts even if you choose not to use it. Limited exceptions can apply to certain pension opt-outs; check the plan’s rules.
- Adjusted family net income under $90,000. The plan uses tax-return information, not just your salary before tax. Deductions and certain adjustments affect this amount.
- Canadian residency for tax purposes. Living in Alberta alone does not establish eligibility.
- Last year’s Canadian tax return filed. Your spouse or common-law partner must have filed too, if you have one.
Other provincial, territorial or federal social dental benefits may be coordinated with the plan. Having those benefits does not automatically exclude you. The Canadian Dental Care Plan determines your eligibility.
What might you pay?
Being covered does not always mean your visit has no cost. Your income-based share is called a co-payment.
| Adjusted family net income | Your co-payment |
|---|---|
| Under $70,000 | 0% |
| $70,000–$79,999 | 40% |
| $80,000–$89,999 | 60% |
| $90,000 or more | Not eligible |
The plan pays its share of its own fee schedule, which may be lower than a dentist’s fees. You may pay the difference, even with a 0% co-payment. You also pay for services the plan does not cover. Always ask the clinic for your expected costs before agreeing to treatment.
What is typically covered?
Eligible services can include exams, cleanings, X-rays, fillings, dentures and root canals. Some extractions and other services may also be covered.
Coverage is subject to frequency limits, clinical criteria and your active coverage dates. Some services, including certain complex treatments, need pre-approval. A dentist must request that approval before treatment. Approval is not guaranteed.
How to apply or renew
- File last year’s taxes, including your spouse’s or common-law partner’s return if applicable.
- Check the application or renewal instructions on the Government of Canada website. Apply directly there; don’t send us your Social Insurance Number or tax documents.
- Wait for your approval and coverage start date. The plan will tell you your member details and co-payment.
- Renew each year. If you miss a renewal deadline, you may need to reapply and could have a gap in coverage. Check current dates on Canada.ca.
The plan does not reimburse visits before your coverage starts. Confirm your coverage is active and your provider will bill the plan directly before treatment.
Apply, renew or check current rules on Canada.caWhat to bring to your first visit
- Your plan member card or coverage letter, including your member number and coverage start date.
- Photo identification and any details the clinic asks you to bring.
- A list of medications, allergies and relevant health information.
- Information about any other dental benefits you have.
- Your questions about the treatment plan, coverage and expected costs.
A few common questions
Want help finding a dentist?
We’ll help with the appointment. The Canadian Dental Care Plan handles coverage.
Check if you qualifyGeneral information, not dental, legal or tax advice. Refer to the Canadian Dental Care Plan for current rules.