Many people in Wellington, Dufferin and Guelph struggle to afford dental care, which can lead to untreated problems that affect overall health and well-being. If cost has been a barrier for you or a family member, there are several dental insurance programs that may help, including the Canadian Dental Care Plan, Healthy Smiles Ontario and the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program. However, understanding and applying to these programs can feel overwhelming, so we invite anyone with questions contact our Oral Health team. They can help you determine which programs you may be eligible for and even help you apply.
Share your dental needs for a chance to WIN
To help us better understand dental needs in our community and improve access to care, we are also inviting residents aged 15 and older to complete our Oral Health Survey for a chance to win a 100-dollar gift card. Your feedback supports our work to ensure everyone in WDG can get the dental care they need and deserve. Sharing your family’s experiences with dental care through this survey is valuable, even if you have dental coverage through your employer.
Visit wdgpublichealth.ca/DentalSurvey to complete the short survey now. Survey closes Dec 31, 2025
Why dental care is important for your health
The financial burden of dental care can lead to neglecting oral health, which can cause serious complications down the line. Tooth decay and gum disease, the two most common forms of disease in our mouths, can lead to pain and infection. For children, tooth decay can affect their sleep, learning, speech and eating. Poor oral health is associated with health risks like heart disease and diabetes, and in pregnancy it can lead to premature birth and low birth weights for newborns.
How to take care of your oral health
How to take care of your oral health everyday:
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Brush twice a day for two minutes each time using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Parents should help young children brush.
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Floss daily to clean between teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach.
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Eat a variety of healthy foods and limit sugary snacks and drinks.
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Limit alcohol and avoid smoking or vaping.
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Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
Dental care programs
If you cannot afford the cost of dental care, there are programs that may be able to help.
Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO)
Public Health provides free dental care to children and youth aged 17 and under through the Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) program. It’s very important to start seeing a dentist when your child is 12 months old and to keep going regularly.
Who: Children and youth 17 and under from families with limited income
How to apply: Call our dental line at 1-800-265-7293 ext. 2661 to apply. Children who are enrolled will receive the card pictured here.
What is covered: Preventative, routine and emergency dental services
Visit wdgpublichealth.ca/HSO or ontario.ca/healthysmiles for more information.
Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP)
The Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP) offers free dental care for eligible seniors.
Who: Ontario seniors age 65 and older who:
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have an annual net income up to $22,200 for a single person or a combined annual net income up to $37,100 for couples, and
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have no other form of dental benefits or insurance
How to apply: Apply online or print and mail an application form. Call our dental line at 1-800-265-7293 ext. 2661 for help.
What is covered: Routine dental services like check-ups, x-rays, cavities, etc.
For more information, visit wdgpublichealth.ca/seniors-dental or Dental care for low-income seniors.
Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) *New in 2024*
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal government program to help eligible Canadians afford the cost of dental care.
Eligible Canadians who:
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do not have access to dental insurance
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have an adjusted family net income of less than $90,000
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are a Canadian resident for tax purposes
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have filed their tax return in the previous year
How to apply: Seniors who meet the eligibility criteria can easily apply through the online portal. Eligible seniors must submit a new application each year to maintain their CDCP coverage.
What is covered: Those who qualify will get a welcome package in the mail that includes coverage details and the date your plan starts.
Whatever your age, access to affordable dental care is essential for maintaining good oral health and overall well-being. These programs can help individuals and families get the dental care they need without worrying about the cost, because everyone deserves a healthy smile.