Oral health is an important part of your health, self-esteem and sense of well-being.
If you are 17 or younger and can’t afford to pay for dental care, we have programs that can help. To learn more about our dental programs please call our Dental Line at 1-800-265-7293 ext. 2661. We can:
- Answer any questions or concerns you have about dental and oral health
- Help you find out if you qualify for free dental care
- Help you enroll in our dental programs
Programs and services
Public Health offers FREE dental care to children and youth who cannot afford dental care through the Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) program. Healthy Smiles Ontario is a government-funded dental program that provides free preventive, routine, and emergency dental services to eligible children and youth 17 and younger from families with limited income.
Emergency Dental Care (pain, infection, suspected cavity, trauma to the mouth)
You may be eligible for dental care through Public Health if they have an urgent dental need and you cannot afford treatment. If you are a youth 17 or under and are experiencing pain, infection such as a gum abscess or if you suspect or have had a dentist confirm you have a cavity, don’t delay in calling Public Health for help. Our staff will assess your situation and schedule you for a dental screening. Our dental team will perform a quick visual screening and will assist you in completing the necessary applications to get the care you need. The dental team will also review with you how to brush the teeth and talk to you about ways to fit oral care into your daily routine. Eligibility requirements for the emergency program:
- 17 or under AND
- Live in Ontario AND
- Cannot afford the cost of dental care for your child AND
- Your household income is equivalent to a level at which you would be in receipt of the Ontario Child Benefit. If you are a youth living on your own, you likely fall into this category.
Preventive Dental Care (cleanings, sealants, fluoride varnish)
Our dental hygienists will check your mouth for oral health concerns and clean your teeth, apply fluoride and sealants, and teach you how to brush and floss. We can also provide information about brushing, healthy eating and other ways to keep your mouth healthy. We will also help you find out if you qualify for any other free dental programs. Eligibility requirements for the preventive program:
- 17 or under AND
- Live in Ontario AND
- Cannot afford the cost of preventive dental care for your child AND
- Your household income is equivalent to a level at which you would be in receipt of the Ontario Child Benefit. If you are a youth living on your own, you likely fall into this category.
Routine Dental Care (cleanings, fillings and most routine services)
If you are eligible for the Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) program and you have a family dentist, Public Health can assist you with completing an application if required.
You may be eligible for regular dental care through HSO if you:
- Are 17 or under AND
- Live in Ontario AND
- Have a household income that meets the program criteria
You are automatically enrolled in HSO if:
- They receive assistance under:
- Temporary Care Assistance
- Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities
- They or their family receive:
- Ontario Works
- Ontario Disability Support
Do you have this card? Call Public Health or your family dental professional to book an appointment.
Dental screenings
Our registered dental hygienists can perform a quick visual screening to check for any cavities or other urgent issues. They will assess your situation and let you know if you are eligible for dental services through the Healthy Smiles Ontario programs and assist you with completing the necessary applications. These screenings do not replace an exam by a dentist.
Call 1-800-265-7293 ext 2661 to book a screening appointment and get started on a brighter smile.