Seniors dental care

Free dental care

Regular dental care helps prevent dental decay, gum disease and oral cancer. The Ontario Seniors Dental Care program provides high-quality care to eligible seniors.

Eligibility

You may be eligible for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care program if you:

  • Are 65 years of age or over
  • Are a resident of Ontario
  • Have an annual net income of $25,480 or less for a single person, or a combined annual net income of $42,290 or less for a couple
  • Have no access to any other form of dental benefits, such as private insurance or other government programs (Ontario Disability Support Program or Ontario Works)

Financial eligibility is based on a senior's net income (line 23600 on an income tax form).

Dental services covered

Publicly-funded dental services covered under this program include:

  • Examinations and assessments
  • Preventive services, such as cleanings and polishing
  • Restorative services to repair broken teeth and cavities
  • X-rays
  • Oral surgery services to remove teeth or abnormal tissue
  • Anaesthesia
  • Endodontic services to treat infection and pain, such as root canals
  • Periodontal services to treat gum conditions and diseases

Prosthodontic services, including dentures, will be partially covered.

Certain dental procedures under the Ontario Seniors Dental Care program have limits based on scientific and clinical criteria. Your Ontario Seniors Dental Care program dental provider can provide more information based on your situation.

In the case of an emergency dental need, eligible clients may be able to access limited services without a dental card. Call the Dental Health Line for more information.

To receive services, the eligible senior must present their valid Ontario Seniors Dental Care program benefit card at the appointment.

How to apply

  • Apply online
  • By mail: Download and print the application form, or get one in person from your local Public Health unit or community health centre

Seniors must apply for the program on an individual basis. If an applicant's spouse is eligible and wants to apply, the couple must complete two application forms.

For help with your application, contact Dental Health.

More information

If a senior doesn't meet the eligibility criteria and has no other form of dental coverage, they may call dental offices in their area to see if they offer payment plans or reduced fees for those without insurance.

Seniors may also be eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan.

If an application is approved, a welcome package and Ontario Seniors Dental Care program benefit card will be mailed to the applicant as proof of enrolment.

Seniors will be notified by mail each year of their eligibility for continued participation in the program or about how to reapply to the program if needed.

A social insurance number (SIN) or temporary taxation number and a personal tax return with the Canada Revenue Agency for the most recent tax year is required to apply.

If a senior doesn't have a social insurance number and / or has not filed taxes in the recent tax year, they may apply using a guarantor.

Dental appointment locations

Niagara Region Public Health offers dental care appointments at our Fort Erie office. To book an appointment, contact Dental Health.

Other organizations in Niagara providing services under the Ontario Seniors Dental Care program include:

  • Centre de Santé: 905-734-1141 ext. 2282,  810 East Main St., Welland — French not required
  • Niagara Falls Community Health Centre: 905-356-2288, 4790 Victoria Ave., Niagara Falls
  • Quest Community Health Centre: 905-688-2558 ext. 248, 145 Queenston St., St. Catharines

Have a question?

Contact Dental Health