Dental care for children
Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) is a free dental program that covers regular and emergency dental care for children 17 and under. The program is designed for lower-income families in need of support.
The program includes regular visits to a dentist or dental hygienist and covers the cost of treatment for:
- Check-ups
- Cleanings
- Fillings (for a cavity)
- X-rays
- Tooth extractions
- Urgent or emergency dental care (including treatment of a child’s toothache or tooth pain)
If your child has a dental emergency and you are unable to pay for treatment, your dental provider can help with an application for HSO emergency services.
Cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening and braces are not covered by the program.
Dental care for adults
- Urgent dental care is available for social assistance (Ontario Works) recipients and low-income adults who qualify for Essential Health and Social Supports (EHSS).
- Adults are assessed by a City dental client to determine treatment.
- Denture services covered under the Community Denture program may be provided however, the service must be pre-approved at a City dental clinic.
Apply
Ontario Works recipients
Contact a City dental clinic. Adults must go to one of the City's dental clinics to determine treatment.
Low-income persons
Low-income persons can apply for Essential Health and Social Supports for dental care. To apply:
Call 3-1-1 between 8:45 am and 4 pm
- Select 1 for English or 2 for service in French
- Select 4 for Social Services
If your application is approved, the City dental clinics will provide you with care.
Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) recipients
ODSP issues dental cards to adults. You may see any private dentist who accepts ODSP. For more information or to receive a dental card, contact your ODSP worker.
Dental care for seniors
Learn how to access free, routine dental care for eligible seniors 65 years or older, through the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program. The program is designed to support low-income seniors.
Apply on the provincial website
City dental clinics
400-1580 Merivale Road
613-580-9631
2525 St. Laurent Boulevard
613-580-9632
40 Cobourg Street (Le Patro)
613-580-9633
This location is closed as of March 28, 2024 for renovations. The length of the closure is unknown.
For more information, read more about Dental Health on the Ottawa Public Health site.