If cost has been keeping you from visiting the dentist, there’s important news you need to know. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is transforming dental care accessibility across Canada, and at Longo Dentistry in London, Ontario, Dr. Shymala Ashraf and her team are proud to welcome CDCP patients. This comprehensive guide will help you understand everything about this groundbreaking federal program and how it can benefit you and your family.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan represents one of the most significant investments in public oral health by the government of Canada. Launched by the federal government with $13 billion allocated over five years and an additional $4.4 billion annually thereafter, the CDCP aims to remove cost as a barrier to essential dental care for millions of Canadians.
According to the Canadian Dental Care Plan official site, this program has been designed to help cover the costs of various oral health care services for eligible Canadian residents who don't have private dental insurance. It's a game-changer for families and individuals who have been delaying or avoiding necessary dental treatment due to financial constraints.
The program recognizes a critical truth: oral health is integral to overall health and wellbeing. Research consistently shows that poor oral health is connected to serious conditions including diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses. By making dental care more accessible, the CDCP doesn't just protect smiles—it protects lives.
Dr. Shymala Ashraf, who graduated with honors in Prosthodontics from the University of British Columbia (UBC) Dentistry, has seen firsthand how financial barriers prevent people from accessing the care they need. Understanding the CDCP eligibility requirements is the first step toward taking advantage of this valuable benefit.
The CDCP is designed for Canadian residents with an adjusted family net income under $90,000 annually who don’t have access to private dental insurance. Your co-payment (the portion you pay) is based on your income level:
The lower your income, the more comprehensive your coverage becomes, ensuring that those who need help most receive the greatest support.
As of 2025, the CDCP has expanded to include all eligible Canadians:
This means that millions more Canadians now have access to affordable dental care. If you’ve been putting off that dental visit, now is the time to act.
To qualify for the CDCP, you must:
It’s important to note that even if you have a private insurance plan with very low coverage limits, you’re not eligible for the CDCP. The program is specifically designed for those without any private dental insurance access.
Prevention is the cornerstone of good oral health. The CDCP covers:
Dr. Ashraf, who has been involved in various community projects including Dental Care for Seniors and Preventative Dentistry for Children, emphasizes that preventive care is the most cost-effective approach to dental health. Regular checkups can identify issues early, before they become painful emergencies requiring expensive treatment.
When dental problems do occur, the CDCP covers essential restorative treatments:
These services restore both function and appearance, allowing you to eat comfortably, speak clearly, and smile with confidence.
For more complex dental issues, coverage includes:
Dr. Ashraf’s training in Prosthodontics—the dental specialty focused on restoring and replacing teeth—makes her exceptionally qualified to provide comprehensive care under the CDCP. Her commitment to learning about new advances in dentistry ensures patients receive the most current, evidence-based treatments available.
The plan also covers necessary surgical procedures and sedation services:
An exciting development is the addition of orthodontic services later in 2025. However, it’s important to understand that this coverage will be limited to medically necessary cases only—not cosmetic orthodontics. Specific clinical criteria for severe malocclusion will be released when this coverage becomes available.
At Longo Dentistry, the multilingual team (speaking English, Spanish, Arabic, Urdu, Hindi, Bosnian, and Italian) ensures that patients from London’s diverse community can communicate comfortably about their treatment needs and options.
Applying for the CDCP is straightforward, and Dr. Ashraf’s team at Longo Dentistry is here to help guide you through the process.
Confirm that you meet the income requirements, are a Canadian resident, and don't have private dental insurance. Make sure you've filed your most recent tax return.
You can apply three ways:
- Online through your My Service Canada Account
- By phone at 1-833-537-4342
- With assistance from Service Canada offices
You'll need:
- Your Social Insurance Number
- Information from your most recent Notice of Assessment from the CRA
- Details about any dependent family members you're applying for
The online application is the fastest method. The system will automatically pull your income information from your tax return, making the process seamless.
Once approved, you'll receive your CDCP card from Sun Life (the program administrator) within approximately two weeks. This card contains your unique CDCP identification number.
Contact Longo Dentistry at (519) 455-1221 to schedule your appointment. Simply let the team know you'll be using your CDCP coverage, and they'll handle the rest.
Dr. Shymala Ashraf and the Longo Dentistry team have created a welcoming, patient-centered environment that puts your comfort first. Here’s what you can expect when you visit as a CDCP patient.
When booking, inform the reception team that you’re a CDCP patient. Have your CDCP identification number ready. The team will verify your coverage is active before your appointment date.
Dr. Ashraf takes a comprehensive approach to dental care. She’ll:
Dr. Ashraf’s philosophy centers on patient education and shared decision-making. She believes that when patients understand their oral health and treatment options, they make better choices and achieve better outcomes.
While the CDCP covers most of the cost for eligible services, you may have some out-of-pocket expenses:
Co-Payments: Based on your income level, you’ll pay a percentage of the CDCP fee schedule. Your exact co-payment percentage is determined when you’re approved for coverage.
Additional Fees: If the cost of your treatment exceeds the CDCP reimbursement rates, or if you choose services not covered by the plan, you’ll pay the difference directly to the dental office.
Dr. Ashraf and her team believe in complete transparency about costs. You’ll always know what you’ll be responsible for paying before any treatment begins—no surprises.
The Longo Dentistry team will submit claims directly to the CDCP on your behalf. You don’t need to file reimbursement requests. The practice handles all the administrative work, making your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
London, Ontario residents have many choices for dental care. Here’s why Dr. Ashraf and the Longo Dentistry team stand out:
Dr. Ashraf's involvement in community projects including Dental Care for Seniors and Preventative Dentistry for Children demonstrates her dedication to improving oral health across all populations. She understands the unique needs of underserved communities and is passionate about making quality dental care accessible.
Dentistry evolves constantly with new techniques, materials, and technologies. Dr. Ashraf strives to learn about new advances in dentistry, ensuring her patients benefit from the most current, evidence-based treatments available. This commitment to continuing education means you receive care informed by the latest research and best practices.
At Longo Dentistry, the team blends advanced dental techniques with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. The practice has been serving London families since Dr. Frank Longo founded it in 2000, building a reputation for gentle, caring treatment. Dr. Ashraf continues this tradition, prioritizing patient comfort and satisfaction.
London's diversity is one of its greatest strengths. The Longo Dentistry team speaks multiple languages (English, Spanish, Arabic, Urdu, Hindi, Bosnian, and Italian), ensuring patients can communicate comfortably in their preferred language. This cultural sensitivity creates an environment where everyone feels welcomed and understood.
Dr. Ashraf's advanced training in Prosthodontics—the dental specialty focused on restoring and replacing teeth—means she brings specialized knowledge to complex dental challenges. Whether you need crowns, bridges, dentures, or implant restoration, her expertise ensures exceptional results.
From routine cleanings to complex restorative work, the practice provides a full spectrum of dental care. This means you can receive all your dental treatment in one trusted location, building lasting relationships with your dental team.
Located at 1221 Dundas Street in London, the practice is easily accessible. With flexible scheduling options and same-day appointments available for emergencies, the team works around your busy life.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan is already making a meaningful difference in communities across Canada, including right here in London, Ontario.
Since the program’s launch, more than 3.4 million Canadians have been approved for coverage, with 1.9 million already receiving dental care. These aren’t just statistics—they represent individuals and families who can now afford the dental treatment they need.
Consider the single parent who can finally address that painful tooth that’s been bothering them for months. Or the senior on a fixed income who can now get dentures, allowing them to eat comfortably and smile with confidence. Perhaps it’s the young adult who can receive preventive care, avoiding costly emergencies down the road.
The CDCP’s emphasis on preventive services is changing how Canadians approach dental care. Rather than waiting until pain forces a dental visit, people can now maintain regular checkups and cleanings. This preventive approach is not only better for oral health—it’s also more cost-effective in the long run.
As the Ontario Dental Association emphasizes, preventive dentistry is the foundation of good oral health. Every dollar invested in prevention saves multiple dollars in emergency and restorative treatment later.
Perhaps most importantly, the CDCP is addressing longstanding inequities in oral healthcare access. Previously, many Canadians faced an impossible choice between dental care and other necessities. The program is eliminating this barrier, promoting equality in healthcare access across all socioeconomic levels.
Dr. Ashraf and her team frequently answer questions about the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Here are some of the most common inquiries:
Unfortunately, no. If you have access to any private dental insurance—even with low coverage limits—you’re not eligible for the CDCP. The program is specifically designed for those without any private insurance access.
Dr. Ashraf will discuss all treatment options with you, including those not covered by the plan. You can choose to proceed with non-covered services and pay for them directly. The team will always be transparent about costs before any treatment begins.
Nearly 98% of active dental providers across Canada are participating in the CDCP. However, it’s always wise to confirm that your chosen dentist accepts the plan. Longo Dentistry proudly accepts CDCP coverage and is experienced in working with the program.
You must report significant changes to your eligibility, including changes in income or insurance coverage. These changes may affect your coverage level or eligibility at renewal time.
At Longo Dentistry, the team strives to accommodate patients promptly. For routine care, you can typically schedule within a reasonable timeframe. For dental emergencies, same-day appointments are often available.
Some services require preauthorization from the CDCP before treatment can proceed. These typically include major restorative work like crowns, bridges, and dentures. Dr. Ashraf’s team will handle the preauthorization process for you, explaining what’s required for your specific treatment plan.
If you’ve been postponing dental care due to cost concerns, the Canadian Dental Care Plan may be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Don’t let dental problems worsen—take advantage of this valuable benefit.
Visit the official Canadian Dental Care Plan website to verify your eligibility and learn more about the application process. The online eligibility checker can give you immediate feedback about whether you qualify.
If you’re eligible, don’t delay your application. The sooner you apply, the sooner you can access the dental care you need. Remember that coverage typically begins shortly after your application is approved and you receive your CDCP card.
Once you receive your CDCP card, contact Longo Dentistry at (519) 455-1221. Dr. Shymala Ashraf and her caring team are ready to welcome you and help you begin your journey to better oral health.
Even if you don’t currently have dental problems, preventive care is essential. Regular cleanings and checkups can prevent issues before they start, saving you discomfort and expense down the road. The CDCP makes this preventive care affordable and accessible.
Dr. Ashraf’s holistic approach to dentistry recognizes that oral health is inseparable from overall health. The mouth is the gateway to the body, and oral infections can contribute to systemic health problems. Conversely, many systemic diseases manifest symptoms in the mouth.
Regular dental care does more than protect your teeth and gums. It contributes to:
The Canadian Dental Care Plan recognizes these connections, treating dental care as an essential component of healthcare—not a luxury.
At Longo Dentistry, accepting the Canadian Dental Care Plan isn’t just about being a participating provider—it’s about being part of a solution to a longstanding healthcare gap. Dr. Shymala Ashraf and the team are committed to making quality dental care accessible to everyone in the London community, regardless of their financial circumstances.
When you choose Longo Dentistry for your CDCP care, you’re choosing:
The practice’s location on Dundas Street in London makes it convenient for patients throughout the city. With modern technology, a well-equipped facility, and a team that genuinely cares about your wellbeing, Longo Dentistry is your ideal partner for CDCP dental care.
If cost has been the barrier keeping you from dental care, that barrier is being removed. The Canadian Dental Care Plan represents a historic opportunity to prioritize your oral health without financial stress.
Whether you need preventive care, restorative treatment, or comprehensive dental rehabilitation, Dr. Shymala Ashraf has the expertise and compassion to help you achieve optimal oral health. Her dedication to community care, combined with her specialized training and commitment to staying current with dental advances, ensures you receive exceptional treatment.
Contact Longo Dentistry today at (519) 455-1221 to learn more about the Canadian Dental Care Plan and schedule your appointment. Your journey to better oral health—and better overall health—begins with a single phone call.
Longo Dentistry 1221 Dundas Street London, Ontario Phone: (519) 455-1221
Dr. Shymala Ashraf and Dr. Frank Longo welcome patients of all ages to their comprehensive family dental practice. As proud participants in the Canadian Dental Care Plan, they’re committed to making quality dental care accessible to everyone in the London, Ontario community.
1221 Dundas St Unit 1
London, ON N5W 3B1
Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
(Note: For emergencies, calling is always fastest. Email is best for general inquiries and non-urgent questions.)