Estimate out-of-pocket dental costs across the Canadian Dental Care Plan, employer plans, and uninsured. Fee-guide reference prices for nine common procedures.
Free tool
You pay
$200(out-of-pocket)
Provincial fee guide reference: $200
Coverage applied: 0 %
Fees mirror the average across Canadian provincial dental association suggested fee guides (2024). The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers eligible Canadians without dental insurance, with a co-payment based on adjusted family net income: under $70,000 = no co-pay (90 % covered), $70,000–$79,999 = 40 % co-pay, $80,000–$89,999 = 60 % co-pay, $90,000+ = not eligible. Employer plans vary widely — top-up plans typically cover 80–100 % of basic and 50–70 % of major procedures. Always get a written estimate (predetermination) from your dentist’s office before major work.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)
Launched May 2024, the CDCP is the largest federal dental programme in Canadian history. Eligibility requires Canadian residency, an annual tax return, no access to private dental insurance, and AFNI below $90,000. Coverage scales: under $70k = 90 % paid (you cover only the dentist’s above-guide markup); $80–90k = 40 % paid. Sun Life is the federal administrator — your CDCP card and provider list come from them.
Get a predetermination first
For any treatment over a few hundred dollars, ask your dentist’s office for a written predetermination — they submit the proposed treatment plan to your insurer (or CDCP) and you get back exactly what’s covered. Avoids surprise bills.
Save with hygienist clinics
Independent dental hygienist clinics (legal in most provinces) offer cleanings, polishing, fluoride, and sealants without a dentist’s mark-up. Many charge $80–120 for a 45-minute cleaning vs $150–200 at a full dental practice. Find one via the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) directory.
This tool is for educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a licensed Canadian healthcare professional. Read our full disclaimer.