If you’re wondering whether does OHIP cover dental care in Ontario, the short answer for most routine visits is no. OHIP (the Ontario Health Insurance Plan) is built around medical care, and dental coverage under it is much narrower than many people expect. This guide breaks down what OHIP does and doesn’t cover, and where else Ontario residents can look for help with dental costs.
Does OHIP cover dental care at a regular dental office?
No. According to the Government of Ontario, OHIP does not cover dental services provided in a standard dentist’s office, including check-ups, cleanings, fillings, or extractions done outside a hospital setting. This surprises a lot of people, since OHIP covers so much of Ontarians’ other health care.
What dental care does OHIP actually cover?
OHIP’s dental coverage is limited to certain in-hospital dental surgeries, and only with prior approval. This can include procedures like fracture repair, tumour removal, reconstructive surgery, and some cases of medically necessary tooth removal, when performed in a hospital setting. It does not extend to routine or preventive dental work.
Where else can Ontario residents get help with dental costs?
Healthy Smiles Ontario (for eligible children)
Healthy Smiles Ontario provides free dental care for children and youth 17 and under from lower-income households, with eligibility based on household income thresholds. Children in families receiving Ontario Works or ODSP are automatically enrolled. Coverage generally includes check-ups, cleanings, fillings, x-rays, scaling, and extractions, though cosmetic treatments like whitening are not included.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)
The CDCP is a separate federal program, not part of OHIP, that helps eligible Canadians with the cost of dental care based on income and insurance status. We cover this in more detail in our dental insurance and CDCP coverage guide.
Private dental insurance
Many Ontarians rely on employer benefits or individual dental insurance plans to help cover routine care, since OHIP generally will not. Coverage details vary significantly by plan, so it’s worth confirming what your specific policy includes before a visit.
Questions patients often ask
Will OHIP cover an emergency tooth extraction?
Only if the extraction is performed in a hospital and meets OHIP’s criteria for medically necessary in-hospital surgery, with prior approval. A routine extraction at a dental office is not covered by OHIP.
Does OHIP cover dental for seniors?
OHIP’s dental rules are the same regardless of age. Some seniors may qualify for other programs, such as the CDCP, depending on their income and whether they have other dental coverage.
How do I know if I qualify for Healthy Smiles Ontario or the CDCP?
Eligibility depends on factors like household income, age, and existing insurance coverage. It’s best to check current eligibility criteria directly through the government program pages, since income thresholds and rules can change.
Booking a visit in London, Ontario
If you have questions about what a specific treatment might cost or how it fits with any coverage you have, Hyland Dental is happy to help you understand your options. You can book an appointment to discuss your needs directly. Availability isn’t guaranteed, and a dental professional can confirm the details that apply to your situation.
