The Ontario Seniors Dental Care program provides high quality dental care to all seniors who qualify.
Seniors are more prone to dental decay, gum disease and oral cancer than other groups, so it's important to have regular dental checkups to prevent further issues.
A senior may be eligible for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care program if they:
Financial eligibility is based on a senior’s net income (line 23600 on an income tax form).
If a senior doesn't meet the eligibility criteria for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care program 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. More information on other low-cost dental care options can be found through the Niagara Dental Health Coalition.
There are two ways to apply.
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 questions and support through the application process in English and French:
Seniors may also call the Niagara Region Public Health Dental Health Line at 905-688-8248 or 1-888-505-6074 ext. 7399 for assistance.
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 SIN and / or has not filed taxes in the recent tax year, they may apply using a guarantor.
If an application is approved, a welcome package and dental 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 re-apply to the program if required.
To receive services, the eligible senior must have a valid Ontario Seniors Dental Care program benefit card. The card must be presented at the time of the appointment.
If a senior doesn't have a card and needs help to complete an application, call the Dental Health Line at 905-688-8248 or 1-888-505-6074 ext. 7399 to book an appointment.
Publicly-funded dental services covered under this program include:
Prosthodontic services, including dentures, will be partially covered.
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 at 905-688-8248 or 1-888-505-6074 ext. 7399 for more information.
These appointments would include cleanings, x-rays, fillings and extractions.
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
Centre de Santé
905-734-1141 ext. 2282
810 East Main St., Welland
French not required - service available to all
Niagara Region Public Health
905-688-8248 ext. 7399
1264 Garrison Rd., Unit 12, Fort Erie
Due to COVID-19, many locations for application pick-up are temporarily closed. Call the Dental Health Line at 905-688-8248 or 1-888-505-6074 ext. 7399 for application assistance.