Tooth pain, loose dentures and missing teeth make it hard to eat well, and many older adults put off the dentist because of the cost. The Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program offers free routine dental care to seniors with low incomes.
At Friendship House in Brantford, seniors are among the neighbours we welcome. We do not run this program, but this guide explains who qualifies, what it covers and how to apply, in plain language.
Quick answer
Who can get the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program?
Ontario residents 65 or older with an annual net income of $25,480 or less (single) or $42,290 or less combined (couples). It covers free routine care such as check-ups, cleanings, fillings, x-rays and extractions, and partly covers dentures. Apply online or by mail, or call 1-833-207-4435 for help.
Who qualifies
According to Ontario.ca’s dental care for low-income seniors page (opens in a new tab), you can qualify if you:
- are 65 years of age or older
- are a resident of Ontario
- have an annual net income of $25,480 or less as a single senior, or a combined net income of $42,290 or less as a couple
If you are part of a couple and both of you are applying, Ontario.ca says you must send two separate applications.
What the program covers
| Service | Covered? |
|---|---|
| Check-ups, scaling, fluoride and polishing | Yes, free |
| Repairing cavities and broken teeth | Yes |
| X-rays | Yes |
| Removing teeth, with anesthesia | Yes |
| Treating infections, pain and gum disease | Yes |
| Dentures | Partly covered |
Where you get care
Care is provided through public health units, partner Community Health Centres and partner Aboriginal Health Access Centres. To find a clinic near Brantford, Ontario.ca says to contact your local public health unit.
When you call, ask how long the wait is for a first appointment and whether the clinic can see you sooner if you are in pain.
How to apply
- Check that you are 65 or older and within the income limit.
- Apply online, or by mail using the application form.
- If you apply by mail, send it to Station P, P.O. Box 159, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S7.
- If you apply online and also need to mail a consent form, send it within 30 days.
- Wait for your approval before booking care.
For questions or help with the application, call 416-916-0204 or toll-free 1-833-207-4435 (TTY 1-800-855-0511).
Keeping your coverage
Coverage ends on July 31 every year, no matter when you enrolled. For most people, Ontario.ca says eligibility is checked again automatically each year.
You must reapply if you applied through a guarantor or if you have not filed taxes for the years used to check your eligibility. Filing your taxes every year keeps things simple; see how to file taxes for free (opens in a new tab).
How it fits with the Canadian Dental Care Plan
Ontario.ca notes that you may qualify for the federal Canadian Dental Care Plan and still be eligible for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program if you meet its rules. Our guide on how to apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (opens in a new tab) explains the federal program.
If you are not sure which program to use for a treatment, ask the clinic before your appointment.
Caring for your teeth and dentures at home
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and clean between your teeth.
- Rinse and brush dentures daily, and take them out at night if your dental team advises it.
- Drink water through the day, especially if your mouth feels dry.
- Tell your dental team about sore spots, bleeding gums or loose teeth.
Questions to ask when you call the clinic
- How long is the wait for a first appointment?
- What should I bring, such as my approval letter and a list of medicines?
- What will the program pay for my treatment, and is there anything I will pay?
- How are dentures handled, since they are only partly covered?
- What should I do if I have pain before my appointment?
Write the answers down and keep them with your health card. If you need a ride, ask a family member, friend or neighbour early.
If you are not eligible
If your income is above the limit, or you already have other dental coverage, this program may not be for you. Check whether you qualify for the federal Canadian Dental Care Plan, and ask your dental office about payment plans.
Some people delay care until pain becomes serious. If cost is the barrier, call 2-1-1 or visit 211 Ontario (opens in a new tab) to ask about local options.
Why oral health matters as we age
Healthy teeth and comfortable dentures make it easier to chew a range of foods, which helps you eat well. A painful mouth can lead people to skip meals or choose only soft foods.
If eating has become hard, our guides on free meals for seniors in Brantford (opens in a new tab) and cheap soup recipes (opens in a new tab) may help.
Tips for a smoother application
- Have your social insurance number and your most recent tax information ready.
- If you are part of a couple, remember that each of you sends a separate application.
- Keep a copy of everything you send, and write down the date.
- If someone helps you fill out the form, read it over together before you send it.
- Never pay a stranger who offers to apply for you; see our guide on how to spot a scam (opens in a new tab).
If you have trouble with forms or with English, ask a trusted family member, friend or community worker to help.
Free help for seniors in Brantford
Friendship House at 452 Grey Street serves coffee, tea and a light breakfast from 8 a.m. and a hot meal Monday to Thursday, 10 to 11 a.m. Our Food Bank runs on Wednesdays (opens in a new tab). Everything is free and open to everyone. Our guide on how to apply for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (opens in a new tab) covers another benefit for low-income seniors.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program?
Ontario residents 65 or older with an annual net income of $25,480 or less (single) or $42,290 or less combined (couples).
Is the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program free?
Routine care such as check-ups, cleanings, fillings, x-rays and extractions is free. Dentures are partly covered.
How do I apply for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program?
Apply online or by mail. For help, call 416-916-0204 or toll-free 1-833-207-4435.
Where do I get care through the program?
At public health units, partner Community Health Centres and partner Aboriginal Health Access Centres. Contact your local public health unit to find one.
Can I have both this program and the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
Ontario.ca says you may qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan and still be eligible for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program if you meet its rules.
A healthy smile helps you eat, talk and feel your best. Check whether you qualify, apply, and visit our free services at Friendship House (opens in a new tab) whenever you need a warm meal and good company.
