In most cases, CDCP does not cover Invisalign as a stand-alone cosmetic orthodontic treatment. The Canadian Dental Care Plan focuses on medically necessary dental services — preventive, restorative, and surgical care. However, there are important exceptions and smart strategies that can significantly lower the cost of Invisalign for CDCP-eligible patients in Toronto. Read on for the full picture.
What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
Launched in May 2024 in partnership with Sun Life, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is the federal government’s initiative to bring affordable dental care to millions of Canadians who lack private or employer-sponsored dental insurance. The program is income-tested, targeting households earning less than $90,000 per year.
What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
Launched in May 2024 in partnership with Sun Life, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is the federal government’s initiative to bring affordable dental care to millions of Canadians who lack private or employer-sponsored dental insurance. The program is income-tested, targeting households earning less than $90,000 per year.
At Dentistry on Gloucester in Downtown Toronto, we proudly welcome CDCP patients and help them understand exactly what their plan covers — including the nuances around orthodontic treatments like Invisalign.
CDCP Eligibility At a Glance
To qualify for CDCP you must: (1) have no private dental insurance, (2) have an adjusted family net income under $90,000, (3) be a Canadian resident for tax purposes, and (4) have filed your previous year’s tax return. The plan is now open to all eligible age groups.
What Does CDCP Actually Cover?
The CDCP was designed to address essential oral health needs, not elective or primarily cosmetic procedures. Understanding the scope of coverage is critical before you book an Invisalign consultation assuming full government payment.
Ready for a Straighter Smile in Toronto?
Whether you are a CDCP patient or not, Dentistry on Gloucester has an Invisalign solution that fits your budget. Book your free consultation today at our Downtown Toronto clinic.
✓ Covered by CDCP
- Oral examinations & X-rays
- Routine teeth cleanings (scaling)
- Dental fillings
- Tooth extractions
- Root canal treatments
- Dental crowns (medically necessary)
- Dentures
- Emergency dental care
- Oral surgery
- Some periodontal treatments
✗ NOT Covered by CDCP
- Invisalign (cosmetic use)
- Traditional cosmetic braces (purely aesthetic)
- Teeth whitening
- Dental veneers
- Implants (routine cosmetic)
- Most elective cosmetic procedures
- Treatments above CDCP fee schedule
- Services from non-participating providers
Does CDCP Cover Invisalign? The Full Answer
This is the question we hear most often at our Downtown Toronto clinic, and the honest answer is nuanced: Invisalign as a purely cosmetic orthodontic treatment is not a covered CDCP benefit. The CDCP fee schedule, administered through Sun Life, does not list clear aligner therapy (Invisalign) as an insured service.
However, there is one important exception worth knowing:
When Orthodontic Treatment May Be Partially Covered
The CDCP can cover orthodontic-related services when they are medically necessary — meaning a dental professional has documented that untreated misalignment is causing or will cause harm to your oral health. In these situations, some of the diagnostic records and assessments tied to your orthodontic workup (such as X-rays, impressions, and clinical exams) may qualify for CDCP reimbursement. The Invisalign aligners themselves, however, are classified as a specialist or cosmetic service and fall outside CDCP’s current benefit list.
Important Note
CDCP coverage rules can be updated by the federal government. Always confirm the current fee schedule and covered services directly with your dental provider or by calling the CDCP helpline at 1-833-537-4342. At Dentistry on Gloucester, we will always review your specific CDCP status before your treatment begins.
CDCP Coverage Tiers: How Much Will You Pay?
For services that are covered under CDCP, the government’s reimbursement is structured around your household income. Understanding this can help you budget for the portions of your dental care that are covered — freeing up more of your own budget for Invisalign.
| Adjusted Family Net Income | CDCP Pays | Your Co-Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Under $70,000 | 100% | 0% |
| $70,000 – $79,999 | 60% | 40% |
| $80,000 – $89,999 | 40% | 60% |
| $90,000 and above | Not eligible | 100% (full cost) |
For CDCP-eligible patients earning under $70,000, having 100% of routine dental care covered by the plan means significantly less out-of-pocket spending throughout the year — which in turn can make Invisalign more financially achievable through our flexible payment options.
Can CDCP Patients Still Get Invisalign in Toronto?
Absolutely — and at Dentistry on Gloucester, we make it easier than ever. Being on the CDCP does not disqualify you from receiving Invisalign. It simply means that the cost of the clear aligners themselves will be a separate financial arrangement. Here is how we help CDCP patients access Invisalign affordably:
Free Consultation for Orthodontic & Cosmetic Treatment
We offer a complimentary consultation for Invisalign so you can understand your treatment plan, timeline, and total cost with zero commitment. Our team will also review your CDCP coverage to claim every eligible diagnostic service.
Exclusive Invisalign Promotions
Dentistry on Gloucester currently offers $1,500 off Invisalign treatment. This significant discount makes clear aligner therapy genuinely accessible for patients in Downtown Toronto regardless of their insurance status.
Flexible Payment Plans & Financing
We offer customized monthly payment plans so the cost of Invisalign fits your budget. For major treatments, financing options are available so you can start your journey toward a straighter smile today without paying the full amount upfront.
Maximize Your CDCP Benefits First
Before starting Invisalign, we ensure you use your full CDCP entitlement for exams, X-rays, and cleanings. Covering these through CDCP reduces your total dental spend and frees up resources for orthodontic treatment.
Why Choose Dentistry on Gloucester for CDCP & Invisalign in Toronto?
Located at 591 Yonge St, steps from Bloor-Yonge Station, Dentistry on Gloucester is a fully registered CDCP provider that also specializes in Invisalign in Toronto. We are one of very few Downtown Toronto clinics where you can seamlessly manage both your CDCP-covered preventive care and your Invisalign treatment under one roof, with the same trusted team.
Our lead dentist, Dr. Ahferom Gebremedhin, has extensive experience in full-mouth rehabilitation and cosmetic dentistry. He works alongside our skilled hygienist Ronak Azish to provide a coordinated, personalized care plan for every patient — whether they are coming in for a CDCP cleaning or beginning a transformative Invisalign journey.
We accept all major insurance plans, offer direct billing, and speak both English and Farsi to serve Downtown Toronto’s diverse community. With same-day appointments and free underground parking, making your dental health a priority has never been easier.
FAQ
Does CDCP cover Invisalign for children or teenagers?
Currently, CDCP does not specifically list Invisalign as a covered orthodontic service for any age group. Minors under 18 who qualify for CDCP can access covered preventive and restorative services. If your child’s misalignment is medically significant, speak with our dentist about what diagnostic and treatment costs may qualify under CDCP.
Can I use CDCP for the consultation and X-rays needed for Invisalign?
Potentially yes. Oral examinations, panoramic X-rays, and other diagnostic records required as part of an Invisalign assessment may fall under CDCP-covered diagnostic services, depending on your treatment history and the specific services billed. Our team will review this with you during your free Invisalign consultation.
Is Invisalign better than traditional braces, and does that affect CDCP coverage?
Neither Invisalign nor cosmetic traditional braces are typically covered under CDCP. The choice between them is a clinical and lifestyle decision — Invisalign is removable, nearly invisible, and more comfortable for most adult patients. Coverage status does not differ between the two for CDCP purposes.
How long does Invisalign take at Dentistry on Gloucester?
Treatment timelines vary depending on the complexity of your case. Mild to moderate alignment issues can typically be addressed in 6–12 months. More complex cases may take up to 18 months. Your personalized treatment plan will include a clear timeline and cost estimate from day one.