Does the CDCP Cover Braces and Invisalign?

Navigating orthodontic care in Canada can raise many questions, especially when it comes to costs and insurance coverage. With the introduction of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), many families in Vaughan and across the country are wondering whether treatments like braces and Invisalign are included. At Walt Orthodontics, we understand the importance of clarity when it comes to planning your or your child’s orthodontic journey. In this article, we’ll explore what the CDCP is, how it works, and whether it can help cover the cost of braces and Invisalign treatment.

Understanding the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)

The CDCP is a new government initiative designed to improve access to dental care for eligible Canadians. Launched in phases beginning in 2024, the CDCP aims to reduce the financial barriers to receiving essential oral health services. The plan is administered by Sun Life and offers coverage for a wide range of dental procedures, with eligibility based on household income and lack of private dental insurance.

Patients must apply through the Government of Canada to determine their eligibility and coverage level. Once approved, they receive a welcome package and can begin booking appointments with participating dental care providers.

What Services Are Covered by the CDCP?

The CDCP includes coverage for preventive and restorative services such as exams, cleanings, X-rays, fillings, extractions, and some endodontic and prosthodontic procedures. However, not all dental services are included, and coverage amounts vary depending on income.

As of the latest available updates, coverage for major services like orthodontics remains limited. Braces and Invisalign are generally not included under standard CDCP coverage unless they meet very specific medical necessity criteria.

Does the CDCP Cover Braces?

Currently, the CDCP does not cover braces for most patients. However, starting sometime in 2025 (exact date to be determined), a very limited range of orthodontic services may be eligible for coverage, but only through a strict preauthorization process and under tightly defined clinical guidelines.

To qualify, the CDCP requires that children under 18 meet the criteria for a severe and functionally handicapping malocclusion, as defined by the Modified Handicapping Labio-Lingual Deviation (HLD) Index. This clinical index is used to assess whether the bite issue is extreme enough to impair normal oral function. It assigns a numerical score based on various dental measurements and factors. Only those who surpass a specific threshold score may be considered eligible for government-funded treatment.

In addition, adults may qualify only if they have a craniofacial anomaly (such as cleft lip or palate) that results in a similarly severe and functionally limiting malocclusion.

It’s important to understand that these criteria are very specific and narrow. The vast majority of orthodontic patients, including those with moderate crowding, overbites, underbites, crossbites, or spacing issues, will not qualify for CDCP coverage. The plan is not designed to support cosmetic or typical orthodontic needs, even if they are clinically beneficial or impactful to self-esteem.

What About Invisalign?

Like traditional braces, Invisalign is currently not covered under the CDCP. However, it is important to understand that when some orthodontic services are eligible for coverage through the CDCP, it is irrelevant which treatment appliance is used – so braces or Invisalign could be used depending on the orthodontist’s preference.

Are There Other Options for Financial Support?

If you or your child are not eligible for orthodontic coverage through the CDCP, there are still several ways to help make treatment more affordable:

Insurance Plans: Some private or employer-sponsored dental plans offer partial orthodontic coverage. We recommend reviewing your plan or speaking with your provider.

Health Spending Accounts: Certain Canadian employers include Health Spending Accounts (HSAs) as part of their benefits package. These accounts allow families to use tax-free funds to cover eligible medical and dental costs, including orthodontic treatment. If your plan includes an HSA, it may help reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

In-House Payment Plans: At Walt Orthodontics, we’re happy to work with families to create customized payment solutions that fit their budgets and timelines.

Early Treatment Options: For younger children, early interceptive treatment may reduce the need for more complex orthodontic work later on, which can also lead to cost savings.

What If the CDCP Expands in the Future?

As a newly introduced federal program, the CDCP may evolve over time. Updates and expansions to the services it covers are possible as the government evaluates demand and public health needs. Our team at Walt Orthodontics is committed to staying informed on these changes and helping our patients understand if and when they may benefit from new coverage options.

In the meantime, we continue to focus on delivering high-quality orthodontic care with honesty, flexibility, and a patient-first approach – no matter what type of coverage you have.

Let’s Talk About Your Options

If you’re wondering whether your child’s orthodontic needs qualify under the CDCP, or simply looking for guidance on managing treatment costs, we’re here to help. At Walt Orthodontics in Vaughan, we offer complimentary consultations and transparent treatment planning, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Even if the CDCP doesn’t apply to your situation, you still have access to expert care, flexible financing, and a team that puts your smile first. Contact us today to book your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more functional smile.