Did You Know Ontario has 8 Government-Funded Dental Care Programs?
In Canada, general oral health care is not included in the Canada Health Act. Most Canadians receive oral health care through privately operated dental clinics and pay for services through insurance or by paying for it themselves. However, some dental services are covered through government dental programs, and are integral to the health and well-being of Canadians.
The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) coverage for dental care is limited, with the notable exception of some in-hospital dental surgeries (e.g. fracture repairs, tumor removal, reconstructive surgery). Medically necessary tooth removal is also sometimes covered, provided it has prior approval by OHIP. It does not cover emergency or routine dental services.
More information can be found at https://www.ontario.ca/page/what-ohip-covers
In addition to OHIP, there are seven government-funded dental care programs available to Ontarians. The four Ontario government-funded dental care programs are: Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (free dental care for seniors), Healthy Smiles Ontario (free dental care for kids), Ontario Disability Support Program (free dental care for adults who are disabled), and Ontario Works (free dental care for low-income adults).
There are three dental care programs funded by the Government of Canada which are available to Ontario residents as well: Interim Federal Health Program (free dental care for refugees), Non-Insured Health Benefits (free dental care for eligible First Nations people), Veterans Affairs Canada (free dental care for Canadian veterans). Unlike OHIP dental coverage which you access automatically using your OHIP card, to qualify for the above free dental programs you need to apply first.
Let’s have a closer look at these programs...
Recently, the Ontario government officially launched the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP) which aims to deliver regular dental services for low-income seniors. To qualify you must be at least 65 years old, be an Ontario resident, have an annual income of $22,200 or less as a single person, or have a combined annual income of $37,100 or less for a couple. In both cases, you must not have other dental benefits.
For more information, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/dental-care-low-income-seniors
Healthy Smiles Ontario provides free dental care for children. This program covers exams, x-rays, fillings, tooth removal and cleanings. Limitations include braces, dental implants, cosmetic services such as veneers and teeth whitening. To apply for this program your child must be 17 years old or younger, live in Ontario,and live in a low-income household.
Visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-dental-care for more information.
The Ontario Disability Support Program is free dental care for adults that have a substantial physical or mental disability. Services include exams, cleanings, fillings, root canals, and tooth removal. Children of parents receiving ODSP will be automatically enrolled in Healthy Smiles Ontario.
For more information, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-disability-support-program-health-and-disability-benefits.
Ontario Works (OW) provides income and employment support to people in temporary financial need. To be eligible for Ontario Works, you must live in Ontario, need money right away to help pay for food and shelter, and be willing to take part in activities that will help you find a job. Ontario Works dental coverage includes exams, x-rays, fillings, root canals, tooth removal, dentures, and cleanings. Children of parents receiving OW will be automatically enrolled in Healthy Smiles Ontario.
Visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-works-health-related-benefits for more information.
The Interim Federal Health Program (IFPH) covers emergency dental care for refugees. “Emergency” is defined as procedures to reduce pain and active infection, hemorrhage and the result of oral trauma. Routine dental care is not covered. IFHP is meant for short-term use (a period of eligibility up to 12 months) to help a refugee who is not eligible for provincial health insurance.
Visit https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/refugees/help-within-canada/health-care/interim-federal-health-program.html for more details.
The Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program is a national health-benefit program for eligible First Nations people and Inuit. This program provides coverage for a range of health benefits that are not covered through other social programs, private insurance plans or provincial or territorial health insurance. Most dental treatments are covered.
Visit https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1574192221735/1574192306943 for more information.
Veterans Affairs Canada provides free dental care for Canadian veterans. People who served in the Canadian military may be eligible for free dental care if they are receiving a disability benefit, enrolled in the Long-Term Care program for veterans, enrolled in the Veterans Independence Program, or receiving the War Veterans Allowance. VAC provides 100% coverage for basic dental care up to $1500 annually for exams, x-rays, fillings, tooth removal, dentures and cleanings. To learn more, visit https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/about-vac/legislation-policies/policies/document/1955
Private insurance is sometimes available through your employer or can be purchased through a private insurance company like Manulife or Great West Life. Monthly fees are reflective of the annual deductible, percentage of coverage and annual maximum.
Visit https://hellosafe.ca/en/health-insurance/dental-insurance to see a quick comparison.
For those searching for dental care options, you may wish to contact your local public health unit or view their websites to enquire about services available in your local community. If you are on a limited income but you do not qualify for any of the above programs, then as a next step you could consider low cost programs at select dental clinics, such as the dental hygiene schools in the Ottawa area.
Visit https://www.champlainhealthline.ca/listServices.aspx?id=10076®ion=Ottawa for more information.