Step 1: Wait for Your Coverage Start Date
After applying, you’ll receive a letter or welcome package from the Government of Canada or Sun Life that includes your:
- CDCP Member ID
- Effective date of coverage
- Co-payment level (if applicable)
You can begin scheduling your appointment on or after the coverage start date listed in the letter— do not book appointments before then, as they won’t be covered.Canada.caSun Life
Step 2: Find a Participating Provider
You have several ways to locate a provider who accepts CDCP:
- Use Sun Life’s CDCP Provider Search Tool — Search by name, specialty, and location to find providers within a 50 km radius.ChildBenefitCanada.caSun Lifecanadadentalplans.com
- Call Sun Life’s CDCP Contact Centre at 1-888-888-8110 for help locating nearby providers.Canada.caSun Life
- Directly contact local clinics (dentists, hygienists, denturists, specialty clinics, dental schools) and ask:
- If they accept CDCP patients
- If they’ll bill Sun Life directly
- About any extra costs beyond your co-paymentCanada.ca+1Sun Life
Note: Broader Access Without Formal Registration
As of mid-2024, any oral health provider (dentist, hygienist, etc.) may choose to treat CDCP clients even without formally enrolling—as long as they agree to direct bill Sun Life. This expanded option is particularly helpful if your preferred provider hasn’t officially signed up.Canada.ca
Step 3: Book Your Appointment
When you call to book:
- Confirm they accept CDCP and bill Sun Life directly.
- Share your coverage start date and co-payment details.
- Ask about any possible out-of-pocket charges beyond the co-payment.Canada.caSun Life
Important: Never pay the full treatment cost upfront—Sun Life won’t reimburse you. Instead, pay only your portion (if any) after services are provided—and the provider will submit the claim.Canada.caSun Life
Step 4: Keep Your Coverage Active
Your CDCP coverage needs annual renewal. Make sure to renew before June 1, 2025, to avoid any gaps. If eligible, you can continue using your current member card.Canada.ca
Real-World Notes from CDCP Members
Here’s what users are saying online:
“I talked to my dentist…The compensation rates are way under the Ontario schedule; dentists participating in the CDCP are doing so out of charity.”Reddit
“Legacy Dental is my dentist; perfectly straightforward… Provide the info, they submit claims for you.”Reddit
