Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) is a government-funded dental program that provides free preventive, routine, and emergency dental services for eligible children and youth in Ontario.
Examples of covered services include:
- Preventive Care: Regular check-ups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants
- Routine Services: X-rays, fillings for cavities, and scaling
- Emergency Care: Treatments for toothaches, pain, and extractions when necessary
Healthy Smiles Ontario Eligibility
Healthy Smiles Ontario is available to children and youth under the age of 17 who live in Ontario and who belong to a household that meets the program’s income-based eligibility requirements. Requirements differ depending on the number of children in the household. Learn more on the Healthy Smiles Ontario web page, under “Income Eligibility Requirements”.
For families experiencing financial hardship due to a dental emergency or the need for essential dental treatments, children may qualify for the program even if they do not meet the income criteria.
Additionally, children of families who receive assistance under Ontario Works, the Ontario Disability Support Program, or Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities are automatically enrolled in Healthy Smiles Ontario and provided with an HSO dental card.
Applications for the Healthy Smiles Ontario program can be submitted online, by mail, or by visiting your local Public Health Unit.
Key Details
Once the child’s enrolment is confirmed, they will receive a Healthy Smiles Ontario dental card in the mail. This card must be presented to the dental care provider at each visit to receive services under the program.
The enrollment status of most children will be reassessed on an annual basis. Annual notices about their enrollment status will be sent by mail.
Get help applying to HSO and find participating providers via local Public Health Units. Public Health Unit locations play a significant role in Healthy Smiles Ontario administration. They can assist with the application process, answer eligibility questions, and provide referrals to participating dental providers.
FAQs
If my child has access to dental insurance, are they still eligible for Healthy Smiles Ontario?
Children who already have dental insurance coverage may still be eligible for HSO. Parents can apply following the standard application process.
Are there any limits on how many times a child can use HSO services?
Yes, there are frequency limits for dental services covered by Healthy Smiles Ontario, which vary by service. You can learn about these limitations on the Healthy Smiles Ontario web page.
What dental services are not covered by Healthy Smiles Ontario?
Cosmetic services like teeth whitening are not covered by the program.
References
*The content provided in this article, including text, graphics, and referenced material, is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your dentist or another qualified oral health professional for questions regarding your dental condition. Never disregard professional dental advice or delay seeking it based on information from this article. If you believe you have a dental emergency, contact your dentist, or seek immediate assistance from an oral healthcare professional.