CDCP Dentures: Coverage, Costs and What to Expect
For many Canadians, the cost of dentures can be a real concern.
At Dentistry at Sullivan, one question our team hears often is, Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) cover dentures? Yes, eligible dentures are covered under the plan, but the amount covered and the treatment requirements depend on the type of denture, your eligibility, frequency limits and, in some cases, preauthorization.
For example, the 2026 Dental Benefits Guide specifically says–
standard complete dentures — do not require preauthorization
complete overdentures — require preauthorization
complete dentures with long-term soft liner — require preauthorization
transitional/provisional complete dentures — do not require preauthorization
immediate complete dentures — do not require preauthorization
immediate complete overdentures — require preauthorization
That’s why understanding CDCP denture benefit eligibility can feel confusing, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of missing teeth.
But having a clear idea of coverage, costs and what to expect makes the process easier and helps you avoid unexpected costs.
In this guide, we’ll explain what Canadian patients need to know about CDCP denture coverage in simple terms. So you can better understand your options and plan for your dental care.
What Types of Dentures Does The CDCP Covers?
The type of dentures you need depends on how many teeth are missing and where the gaps are located, and how many healthy natural teeth remain to support the denture.
Several types of removable dentures include:
1. Complete dentures
Complete dentures replace an entire set of teeth, such as the upper jaw or lower jaw, or both, in one dental arch.
For example
Type | What it replaces |
Upper complete denture | Replaces all teeth in the upper dental arch. |
Lower complete denture | Replaces all teeth in the lower dental arch. |
Complete Dentures Covered by the Canadian Dental Care Plan
Standard complete dentures
Complete transitional/provisional dentures
Complete immediate dentures
Complete overdentures (preauthorization required)
Complete dentures with a long-term soft liner (preauthorization required)
Complete immediate overdentures (preauthorization required)
Standard complete dentures are covered one per arch every 96 months (8 years) subject to CDCP eligibility requirement.
Complete immediate and transitional/provisional dentures are subject to different CDCP frequency limits and are generally covered only once per dental arch in a lifetime.
2. Partial dentures
Partial dentures replace some missing teeth while using remaining natural teeth for support and stability through components such as clasps or other supporting parts. However, the exact teeth used depend on their location, strength and condition.
Standard partial acrylic dentures (once per arch every 60 months)
Partial immediate acrylic dentures
Partial overdentures
Partial transitional/provisional acrylic dentures (preauthorization required)
Partial cast dentures ( once per arch every 96 months)
Note: CDCP also applies clinical eligibility requirements to partial dentures. For example, certain existing dental disease and structural problems may need to be addressed before a partial denture is considered.
3. Immediate dentures
An immediate denture is prepared in advance so it can be placed right after the planned teeth are extracted. This helps replace the missing teeth immediately rather than leaving the person without teeth while the gums heal.
The CDCP recognizes eligible immediate dentures, but complete immediate dentures have a once-per-lifetime frequency limit per arch under the current rules.
Note: It is important to discuss your treatment sequence with your dentist or denturist before agreeing to treatment.
How Much Do Dentures Cost with the CDCP?
Dentures under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) are not completely “free” for everyone. The amount you pay depends on your
Your adjusted family net income
The CDCP-established fee for the procedure
The provider's actual fee
Whether the denture is covered under CDCP rules
Whether preauthorization is required
Whether you choose additional services or materials that are not covered
CDCP currently has three income-based co-payment levels.
Adjusted family net income | CDCP covers | Your co-payment |
Below $70,000 | 100% of eligible costs at CDCP fees | 0% |
$70,000–$79,999 | 60% | 40% |
$80,000–$89,999 | 40% | 60% |
Why could you still have a bill if CDCP covers 100%?
This is the important difference.
If your adjusted family net income is under $70,000, you generally have no co-payment toward the CDCP-established fee for eligible services. However, you may still have an amount to pay if your provider's fee is higher than the CDCP-established fee or if you choose services that are not covered by the plan.
Your Provider May Explain
What type of denture you are receiving
What CDCP is expected to cover
Whether preauthorization is required
Your expected co-payment
Any additional provider charges
Any services or materials that are not covered
If your provider's fee is higher than the amount the CDCP reimburses, you may have an additional charge.
The Government of Canada advises CDCP patients to ask their provider about any costs that will not be covered before receiving treatment.
Example
Imagine a denture costs $1,150, but the CDCP fee for that treatment is $1,000. If you qualify for 100% CDCP coverage, the care plan may pay $1,000. You may need to pay the remaining $150 if your denturist charges more than the CDCP fee.
Tip: Ask your denturist for a written estimate before treatment so you know what you may have to pay.
Important: You may still have additional charges if your dentist or denturist's fees are higher than the CDCP-established fees or if you choose services that the plan doesn't cover. Some treatments and materials are not covered by the CDCP. For example, implant-supported complete and partial dentures and implant-related procedures are excluded from CDCP coverage.
What Does the CDCP Look at Before Approving Dentures?
CDCP coverage is not based only on whether you want dentures.
The plan has specific clinical criteria.
For example
Partial dentures must meet the plan's eligibility, dental disease and problems, coverage, frequency, and, when required, preauthorization rules.
For preauthorization submissions involving complete dentures, documentation can include:
A CDCP claim form
Denture Treatment plan details
Information about missing teeth
Planned extractions, if necessary
A clinical rationale
The CDCP has specific documentation requirements for complete and partial dentures, so your dentist or denturist may need to assess your oral health before treatment.
More than 4.8 million CDCP members have used their coverage to receive dental care since the plan launched, as of August 31, 2026.
Does CDCP Cover Denture repairs?
Yes.
CDCP can cover eligible denture repairs or additions, generally up to once per arch every 12 months.
That can be useful if your denture develops a minor crack, broken tooth, or other repairable damage, but you do not need a completely new appliance.
Depending on the situation, such as if your denture has a small, repairable problem but is otherwise in good condition, your dentist or denturist may recommend a repair instead of replacing the entire denture.
Note: The right option depends on the condition of the denture, your oral health and whether the existing appliance can still provide an appropriate fit and function.
Does CDCP cover denture relines?
Yes. The CDCP covers eligible denture relines and rebases.
Under the current CDCP rules:
Laboratory and chairside relines may be covered
Reline/rebase services are limited to once per arch every 24 months
Preauthorization is not required for eligible relines and rebases
What Should I Expect When Getting Dentures Through CDCP?
The process usually starts with an oral examination. Your dental provider will assess your:
Start with a dental assessment: Dr. Sepideh Maleki and the Dentistry at Sullivan team will examine your teeth, gums and oral tissues to understand your denture needs. If clinically appropriate, X-rays or other diagnostic tests may also be recommended.
Discuss your denture options: Depending on how many teeth you are missing and your oral health, our team discusses complete or partial dentures and explains which option may suit your needs.
Review your CDCP coverage: Our team can explain how CDCP rules may apply to the recommended treatment, including applicable frequency limits, preauthorization requirements and potential patient costs.
Review your expected costs: Our team can explain the estimated CDCP coverage, applicable co-payment and any potential additional charges before treatment begins.
Move forward with your treatment plan: Once we discuss treatment options and expected costs, you can decide how you want to proceed.
Follow-up and adjustments: After your denture is fitted, you may need adjustments while your mouth becomes accustomed to it. The dental team can check the fit and address areas causing discomfort.
Important: Under CDCP rules, the fee for complete and partial dentures includes three months of post-insertion care. Adjustments made on the same day you receive your new dentures are also included in the applicable fee.
However, it can take some time for your mouth, tongue and facial muscles to adjust to new dentures. Mild tenderness, increased saliva, changes in speech or chewing can occur during the adjustment period. If discomfort persists or your dentures do not fit properly, contact your dental provider for an assessment and adjustment.
What to Check Before Getting Dentures in Canada
Your current CDCP eligibility
The type of denture being recommended
Whether preauthorization is needed
The CDCP-established fee
Your expected co-payment
Any additional charges
Whether future repairs, relines, or replacements have frequency limits
A little preparation can make the denture process much easier.
Explore Your Denture Options With CDCP
Understanding CDCP denture coverage can be confusing, especially when frequency limits, preauthorization and potential out-of-pocket costs are involved.
At Dentistry at Sullivan, Dr. Sepideh Maleki and our dental team can assess your oral health, discuss your denture options and explain how CDCP rules may apply to your recommended treatment.
If you're considering complete or partial dentures, schedule a consultation with our Scarborough dental team to discuss your options and expected costs.
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