Does a root canal hurt?

The treatment itself shouldn’t hurt, because the area is fully frozen first. Many patients say it feels much like getting a filling. Most of the pain people link to root canals actually comes from the infection beforehand, and treatment relieves it.

How do I know if my tooth pain needs a root canal?

Pain that lingers after hot or cold, throbs on its own, or wakes you at night often points to a problem with the nerve. Brief, sharp sensitivity that fades quickly is usually less serious. An exam and X-ray are the only way to know for sure.

Can antibiotics fix a tooth infection instead?

Antibiotics may calm swelling for a short time, but they can’t reach the infection inside the tooth. Without treatment, it usually comes back. A root canal or extraction is needed to remove the source.

Do I need a crown after a root canal?

Usually, yes, especially for back teeth that handle most of your chewing. A crown protects the treated tooth from cracking and helps it last.

Where can I get a root canal in Edmonton?

Pleasant View Dental is at 11044 51 Ave NW in south Edmonton, near Southgate Centre, and welcomes patients from Pleasantview, Allendale, Lendrum Place, Royal Gardens and surrounding neighbourhoods.

Pleasantview Family Dental Clinic

Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) Dentist in Edmonton

BOOK YOUR VISIT

CALL (780) 430-9053

The Canadian Dental Care Plan helps eligible Canadians without dental insurance pay for the care they need. Pleasantview Family Dental is proud to welcome new and existing CDCP patients of all ages, and we bill Sun Life directly.

Dentist and dental assistant treating a patient in an Edmonton dental clinic

What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal program that helps cover the cost of dental care for eligible residents who don’t have access to private dental insurance. It’s run by Health Canada and administered by Sun Life, which processes claims on the government’s behalf.

Who Is Eligible?

You may qualify for the CDCP if you:

- Don’t have access to dental insurance through an employer, pension, school or private plan

- Have an adjusted family net income under $90,000

- Are a resident of Canada for tax purposes

- Have filed your previous year’s tax return (and your spouse or common-law partner has too)

Using Your CDCP Coverage With Us

Once you’ve been approved and received your welcome package from Sun Life, just bring your CDCP member card to your appointment. We bill Sun Life directly, so you don’t have to submit claims yourself. Before any treatment, we’ll explain what the plan covers, whether pre-approval is needed and whether there will be any cost to you, so there are no surprises.

What Does the CDCP Cover?

When recommended by your dentist, the CDCP can help cover a wide range of services, including:

Preventive Care

Exams, cleanings, polishing, sealants and fluoride to keep teeth healthy.

Learn more →

Diagnostic Services

Dental X-rays that help find cavities and hidden problems early.

Learn more →

Fillings

Tooth-coloured repairs for cavities, chips and minor damage.

Learn more →

Root Canal Treatment

Treatment that saves infected or damaged teeth from extraction.

Learn more →

Dentures

Complete and partial removable dentures to replace missing teeth.

Learn more →

Extractions

Gentle removal of teeth that are too damaged to save.

Learn more →

Treatments done mainly for appearance, such as teeth whitening and veneers, aren't covered, and dental implants are generally not included. If you need a treatment the plan doesn’t cover, we’ll explain your options and costs before anything is done.

Co-Payments

Will I Have to Pay Anything?

Depending on your adjusted family net income, you may have a co-payment. Here's how it works:

Adjusted family net income

Your co‑payment

Under $70,000

No co‑payment

$70,000 to $79,999

40% of the CDCP-covered amount

$80,000 to $89,999

60% of the CDCP-covered amount

Program details are set by the Government of Canada and can change. Information last reviewed November 2026. Visit Canada.ca ↗ for the latest details.

For Albertans

CDCP Coverage in Alberta

Albertans can enrol in and use the CDCP just like residents of other provinces. If you also have dental coverage through an Alberta program, such as the Low-Income Health Benefits programs or the Dental Assistance for Seniors Program, the CDCP is billed first and the provincial program may cover part of what's left. Alberta dentists also set their own fees, so our Edmonton team will always let you know if any part of your treatment isn't fully covered before we begin.

Learn about Alberta's dental programs ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you bill Sun Life directly for CDCP patients?

Yes. We bill Sun Life directly, so you don’t have to submit claims yourself. Just bring your CDCP member card to your appointment.

How do I apply for the CDCP?

Apply through the Government of Canada at Canada.ca or by calling 1-833-537-4342. Once approved, Sun Life will mail your member card and coverage start date. Then just book a visit and bring your card.

Do I need to renew my CDCP coverage?

Yes. Coverage runs for a set period and needs to be renewed. You also need to file your taxes every year to stay eligible, so watch for renewal notices from the Government of Canada.

Can I use the CDCP if I have dental insurance through work?

No. If you have access to dental coverage through an employer, pension or private plan, you aren’t eligible, even if you choose not to use it.

Is everything free with the CDCP?

Not always. Depending on your income, you may have a co-payment, and some fees may be higher than what the plan pays. We’ll explain any costs before treatment.

I have Alberta dental coverage. Can I still use the CDCP?

Yes, if you’re eligible for both. For patients with coverage through Alberta’s Low-Income Health Benefits programs or the Dental Assistance for Seniors Program, the CDCP is billed first and the provincial program is billed second.

What if I don’t qualify for the CDCP?

You still have options. We direct bill most insurance providers, and some Albertans qualify for provincial dental programs. Our team is happy to talk through your coverage.

Book Your CDCP Appointment in Edmonton

We welcome CDCP patients from Pleasantview, Allendale, Royal Gardens, Lendrum Place, Malmo Plains, Parkallen and across south Edmonton, with care available in English, Polish and Russian. Book a visit and bring your member card.