If you’re an Ontario senior searching for affordable dental care, the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP) and the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) offer vital support. While the OSDCP provides free dental services—such as cleanings, fillings, and dentures—for eligible low-income seniors, the CDCP goes further by covering a wider range of dental procedures beyond just the basics.
Dental health is essential for overall well-being, but the cost of care can often feel overwhelming. These programs ensure seniors have access to high-quality services without financial strain. The OSDCP focuses on basic and preventive care, while the CDCP expands access to more advanced restorative and therapeutic treatments, ensuring comprehensive oral health care.
In this blog, you’ll learn everything you need to know about both programs, including eligibility criteria, costs, how to apply, and where to find participating clinics. By understanding your options, you can take the first step toward better oral health and a brighter smile.
Are you 65+ and no Dental Insurance?
Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)
Overview for Seniors 65 plus
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is here to help make dental care more affordable for uninsured Canadians. Managed by Sun Life, this program is designed to reduce the financial stress of dental expenses for families with an adjusted annual net income under $90,000.
Who is Eligible?
How Do I Apply?
Follow this simple step-by-step guide to get started with your application:
Submit your application directly through the Government of Canada website:
Apply Here.
If applying online isn’t an option, you can apply by phone:
Phone: 1-833-537-4342
TTY (for hearing impaired): 1-833-677-6262
Service Canada will assess your application.
Once approved, Service Canada will forward your information to Sun Life for enrollment.
What happens if I am approved?
Great news! Once your application is approved, here’s what happens next:
You’ll receive a friendly package in the mail, including your dental card and all the information you need to get started.
Just take your dental card to any approved service provider, and they’ll take care of the rest. No need to worry about extra steps!
Each year, you’ll get a notice confirming your eligibility or letting you know if it’s time to reapply, simple and stress-free!
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers a wide range of dental services to help keep your smile healthy! Here’s what’s included:
How much will be covered and Co-Payments Details
A Co-Payment is a small portion of the cost that you may need to pay directly to your dental provider. Here’s how it works:
Finding a Dental Clinic That Accepts CDCP
Dental Coverage for Low-Income Seniors Aged 65 and over in Ontario
The Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP) provides basic dental care to low income seniors in Ontario!
Who is eligible?
- 65+ and Ontario resident.
- No private dental insurance or coverage under provincial programs (e.g., OW, ODSP).
- CDCP enrollees may qualify if income criteria are met.
How Do I Apply?
There are several options available for applying for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program:
https://forms.mgcs.gov.on.ca/en/dataset/014-5125-20
You can go to Service Ontario location and fill out a paper application form.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/67xgw3BN7NEMN4
Notice of assessment for the previous year or;
Seniors without tax documentation can use a guarantor for verification.
What happens if I am approved?
Great news! Once your application is approved, here’s what happens next:
After your application is approved, you will receive a dental card in the mail that will expire on July 31st.
To use the card, show it at the Public Health Unit, Community Health Centre, or Aboriginal Health Access Centre where you get care.
Each year, OSDCP will automatically check your eligibility to confirm your enrollment for the next term. If you qualify to continue, you will notified by mail.
What about Dentures?
Partially covered
List of Dental Clinics
Find the nearest Dental Clinic to you!
Toronto Public Health Programs
Conclusion
The Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP) and the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) are vital initiatives that provide essential dental care to seniors in Ontario, particularly those facing financial challenges.
The OSDCP offers free dental services to low-income seniors, while the CDCP supports uninsured Canadians aged 65 and over, reducing the financial burden of dental expenses. Both programs focus on improving oral health and overall well-being, recognizing the important connection between dental and general health.
With simple application processes and a wide range of covered services, these programs are designed to be accessible and effective. If you or a loved one qualifies, taking advantage of these resources can significantly enhance dental health and quality of life for seniors in Ontario.
