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CDCP Dentist in Burnaby: What’s Covered and How to Use Your Benefits

  • Writer: Gentle Dental Burnaby
    Gentle Dental Burnaby
  • Feb 9
  • 3 min read

You received your Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) card in the mail. You know you need a cleaning, or perhaps a sensitive tooth has been bothering you for weeks. You’re staring at the card, wondering: “What does this actually pay for, and will I get a surprise bill at the end?”


Dental insurance jargon is often designed to be confusing. In our Burnaby clinic, the stress we see isn't usually about the dental chair; it’s about the cost. Understanding that the CDCP is a "co-payment" model rather than "free dental" is the first step to using it effectively.


The smartest way to use the plan is for prevention. Catching a small cavity today with CDCP coverage prevents a high-cost emergency later that the plan might not fully cover.


CDCP Dental Coverage: What’s Covered?

What is the CDCP? (The Plain English Version)


The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal program helping eligible residents access essential oral health care.


It is important to note that this is not "one size fits all" coverage. Your coverage percentage (40%, 60%, or 100%) is determined by the government based on your adjusted family net income. At Gentle Dental Burnaby, we disclose any potential "patient portion" costs before we begin treatment so you stay in control of your budget.


Commonly Covered Services


If you are visiting a CDCP dentist in Burnaby, these services are typically straightforward:

  • Diagnostic: Annual exams and necessary X-rays.

  • Preventive: Dental cleanings (scaling), fluoride, and sealants.

  • Restorative: Fillings to treat cavities.

  • Periodontic: Scaling (deep cleaning) for gum health.


What is NOT Covered (or Requires Pre-Approval)


To avoid surprises at the front desk, keep in mind:

  • Cosmetic Work: Teeth whitening and purely aesthetic veneers are not covered.

  • Missed Appointments: CDCP does not pay for "no-show" fees.

  • Advanced Procedures: Major work like dentures or complex crowns often requires "pre-authorization," meaning we must send the plan to the government for approval before starting.


How to Use Your CDCP Benefits in Burnaby:

A 4-Step Checklist


  • Step 1: Verify Your Member Card. Ensure your Sun Life member ID is active and bring it to your appointment.

  • Step 2: Book the Correct Visit. Book a New Patient Exam if you need a checkup, or an Emergency Exam if you have active pain or swelling.

  • Step 3: The Pre-Treatment Review. Before we start, we review what the CDCP covers for your specific treatment and what your estimated co-pay will be.

  • Step 4: Electronic Billing We bill Sun Life directly, so you only pay your portion (if any) on the day of service.

CDCP Dental Coverage: What’s Covered?

Frequently Asked Questions


Does a Burnaby dentist need to be registered with CDCP? Yes. To use your benefits, the dentist must be a participating provider. Gentle Dental Burnaby accepts CDCP patients and processes claims directly.


Is Invisalign covered by CDCP? Generally, no. Orthodontic coverage for Invisalign or braces is not currently part of the CDCP standard offering. However, we offer consultations to help you plan for these options.


What if I have a dental emergency in Burnaby? If you have a broken tooth or an infection, call 604 4343020 immediately. The CDCP typically covers the initial emergency exam and X-rays needed to diagnose the problem.

Ready to use your benefits?


Don't wait for a toothache to validate your coverage. Start with a cleaning and exam to get a baseline of your oral health.

  • Book Online: [Here]

  • Call Us: 604 4343020

  • Visit:[ 4980 Kingsway 111, Burnaby, BC V5H 4K7]

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