Dental FAQsCanadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)

We want to provide high quality dental to our patients at fair prices and without excess bureaucracy.

That also means that we charge every patient the same fee.

You are responsible for the difference between the CDCP grid and the official BC Fee Schedule. We will try our best to point out limitations of this plan, but are unable to be 100% correct at all times. The government reserves the right to claw back money from the dentist.

Challenges & Concerns

• Dentists nationwide express overwhelming opposition to the CDCP in its current state, citing confusion outweighing benefits.
• The bureaucratic processes associated with the CDCP are extensive.
• Patients are currently opting to cancel existing insurance plans while anticipating the implementation of the CDCP. Which is a mistake.
• The Government expects dentists to operate at a 20% discount. Why is there a different “Grid” (aka “fee schedule”) for CDCP patients? Why so many unreasonable limitations?
• Contrary to initial promises, the CDCP is NOT free.
• Inconsistencies and changes in government directives have further added to confusion.
• Sun Life is completely overwhelmed.
• So far (as of March 8th of 2025), as far as we are aware, very few crowns or dentures have been approved by Sunlife!
• Very few dental offices in the Nanaimo area accept the CDCP.
• This situation is extremely frustrating for everyone.

Additional Resources

• For more details, visit the Government of Canada website
• Check out the Fee Schedule from Sun Life to illustrate shortcomings.
• Read the BCDA President’s Message Update on CDCP Activities from June 6th 2024.
• The CDA’s position can be viewed here.
• The BCDA’s position can be viewed here.
• I searched on the BCCOHP website for CDCP? Zip!