In Ontario, many people are surprised to learn that routine dental care isn’t covered by OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan). While OHIP provides excellent coverage for most hospital and physician services, it generally does not cover visits to the dentist — unless the situation is considered a medical emergency.
Let’s break down exactly what’s covered, what’s not, and what options are available for those without dental insurance.
✅ Dental Services Covered by OHIP (in Specific Cases)
While OHIP does not cover regular dental check-ups, cleanings, or fillings, it does cover certain dental procedures — but only when medically necessary and performed in a hospital setting.
🏥 Emergency Dental Surgery in a Hospital
- If you have a severe dental infection, fractured jaw, or trauma requiring surgery
- Procedures done by oral surgeons in hospital operating rooms
- Typically reserved for complex cases where general anaesthesia is needed and the procedure cannot be performed safely in a regular dental office
👶 Children’s Dental Surgery in Hospitals
Some children with medical or behavioural conditions (such as autism or special needs) may qualify for dental treatment under general anaesthesia in a hospital setting.
💊 Tooth-Related Conditions Treated by Physicians
If you visit your family doctor or ER for facial swelling, oral infections, or pain, the medical consultation is covered, but any actual dental treatment is not.
❌ Dental Services NOT Covered by OHIP
The following are typically not covered under OHIP:
- Routine dental exams and cleanings
- Fillings, crowns, bridges, or dentures
- Tooth extractions (unless performed in hospital under special circumstances)
- Root canal treatment
- Cosmetic procedures (e.g., whitening, veneers)
- Orthodontics (braces, Invisalign)
For these services, patients usually pay out-of-pocket or use private dental insurance.
🧒 Are There Any Public Dental Programs in Ontario?
Yes — several government-funded programs exist outside of OHIP to help eligible Ontarians access dental care:
🧒 Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO)
- Free dental care for children and youth under 18 in low-income families
- Covers check-ups, cleanings, fillings, extractions, X-rays, and more
- Must meet income eligibility and be an Ontario resident
👵 Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP)
- Provides free dental care to low-income seniors aged 65+
- Includes exams, cleanings, fillings, dentures, and extractions
- Must apply and qualify based on income
💼 Ontario Works (OW) & Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
- Offers basic dental coverage for eligible adults receiving social assistance
- Includes exams, preventive care, fillings, and extractions
💡 What If I Don’t Have Insurance or Qualify for a Program?
If you’re not covered by OHIP or any government program:
- Many dental clinics offer payment plans or flexible financing
- You can explore individual or family dental insurance plans
- Preventive care and early treatment often cost less than emergency care later
Our clinic offers transparent pricing and supportive payment options — just ask!
Final Thoughts
While OHIP doesn’t cover most dental procedures, there are options available to help you access the care you need. From government programs to affordable private care, you don’t have to delay treatment.
Need help understanding your dental coverage or finding the right care option? Contact our team today — we’ll help guide you through your options and keep your smile healthy, whatever your situation.