Does the Canadian Dental Plan Cover Implants for Seniors?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a major step toward improving access to affordable dental care for Canadians, particularly seniors and low-income families. However, many patients wonder whether it covers advanced treatments such as dental implants, one of the most effective but costly options for replacing missing teeth.

In this article, we’ll explain what the CDCP covers, whether dental implants are covered, and other affordable options for seniors who want to restore their smiles.

Overview of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) was introduced by the Government of Canada to help Canadians access essential oral health services without the financial burden of private dental care.

Purpose and Who It Helps

The CDCP is designed primarily for Canadians without private dental insurance and with household incomes below $90,000 per year. Seniors, children, and people with disabilities benefit most, as they often have higher dental needs but less access to consistent care.

Through this plan, seniors can receive coverage for preventive and essential dental care, including dental cleanings, dental fillings, extractions, and dentures, ensuring that basic oral health remains affordable and accessible.

How the Plan Works for Seniors

Eligible seniors can apply through the Government of Canada Dental Portal, where their coverage level is determined by income. The plan partners with participating dental offices, allowing patients to receive services directly while the government reimburses the dentist.

The Government of Canada website says:

“Not all oral health care services are covered under the CDCP. Consistent with its policies, the CDCP does not cover any procedures related to non-eligible oral health care services, nor does it cover procedures related to an oral health care procedure reviewed and declined by the CDCP through preauthorization.”

Read more: Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?

Are Dental Implants Covered Under the CDCP?

As of now, dental implants are not covered under the Canadian Dental Care Plan. The CDCP focuses on preventive and basic restorative services, not advanced or elective procedures.

This means treatments such as implant surgery, bone grafting, and implant-supported crowns or bridges are not covered under the program’s current coverage. Patients seeking these services will need to pay privately or explore financing and alternative restorative options.

For individuals considering implants, consultations with experienced professionals, such as the restorative dentistry and dental implant specialists at, are crucial for understanding costs and treatment options.d

Discover more: Dental Coverage for First Nations Residents of BC

Why Implants Are Not Included in the Current Coverage?

Dental implants are considered a specialized, high-cost treatment. Unlike basic procedures such as cleanings or fillings, implants involve surgical placement and require multiple appointments, imaging, and materials like titanium posts and custom crowns.

Because the CDCP aims to make essential care accessible to as many Canadians as possible, it prioritizes coverage for treatments that address immediate oral health needs, such as decay, infection, and tooth loss management through dentures.

However, as the plan evolves, the government may expand its coverage to include more advanced restorative procedures.

Alternative Options for Seniors Who Need Implants

For seniors who are not eligible for implant coverage under CDCP, there are still several affordable ways to restore missing teeth:

• Dentures: Both full and partial dentures are covered under the CDCP and provide an effective, low-cost replacement for missing teeth. You should also ask your dentist whenever you are stuck in the decision-making process of choosing dentures vs implants to see which is best for you.
• Dental Bridges: A traditional bridge can replace one or more missing teeth and is often less expensive than implants, which is why many people compare bridges vs implants.
• Payment Plans and Financing: Many clinics, including Tsawwassen Family Dental, offer flexible financing or staged treatment plans to make implants more affordable.
• Combination Treatments: Some patients choose to start with dentures and transition to implant-supported dentures later, when finances allow.

If you’re unsure which solution best suits your needs, our team can guide you through all available options to help you balance affordability, comfort, and long-term oral health.

Explore Your Options for Dental Implant Coverage as a Senior

While dental implants are not currently covered under the CDCP, the plan provides seniors with valuable support for essential services, such as dental check-ups. Understanding your coverage and available alternatives allows you to make confident, cost-effective decisions about your oral health.

At Tsawwassen Family Dental, we’re committed to helping seniors access affordable, high-quality care, whether through the CDCP, private plans, or custom financing.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore your best options for tooth replacement and smile restoration.

FAQ

Here are answers to some common questions about dental implants and the Canadian Dental Care Plan for seniors in BC.

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