Canadian Dental Care Plan vs. Healthy Smiles Ontario: What Parents Need to Know

As a parent, ensuring your child has access to quality dental care is essential. In Ontario, two major government programs—the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) and Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO)—offer coverage for eligible residents. But how do these programs compare, and can your family benefit from both?

If you are looking for affordable dental care for your children, here’s a breakdown of both programs to help you navigate your options.

What is the Healthy Smiles Ontario Program?

Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) is a provincial program that provides free dental care for children and youth under 18 years old from low-income families.

Who is Eligible?

Your child may qualify for HSO if:

✔️ They are 17 years old or younger

✔️ They live in Ontario

✔️ Your household meets the income eligibility requirements

What Does HSO Cover?

HSO includes many preventative and essential dental services, such as:

• Check-ups & Cleanings (One per year)

• X-rays

• Fluoride Treatments

• Fillings

• Extractions

• Urgent dental care

Since HSO only covers one dental cleaning per year, it may not be enough for children who require additional care.

What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal program designed to provide low- to middle-income families with dental coverage. Unlike HSO, which is just for kids, CDCP covers all eligible Canadians, including adults, seniors, and children.

Who is Eligible?

✔️ Canadian residents who have no private dental insurance

✔️ Annual household income under $90,000

✔️ Filed taxes in the previous year

What Does CDCP Cover?

CDCP covers a broader range of dental services than HSO, including:

• Check-ups & Cleanings (Additional coverage beyond HSO)

• X-rays & Fillings

• Root Canals

• Extractions & Dentures

• Some Major Restorative Work (Pre-authorization required in late 2024)

Since HSO covers only one cleaning per year, CDCP can provide an extra cleaning, giving your child access to two professional cleanings annually.

Can My Family Use Both Programs?

Yes! If your child qualifies for Healthy Smiles Ontario, they can also benefit from the Canadian Dental Care Plan, as long as your household meets CDCP’s eligibility requirements.

By combining both programs, your child can:

✔️ Receive two cleanings per year instead of just one

✔️ Get additional coverage for fillings, extractions, and checkups

✔️ Have access to more extensive dental treatments under CDCP

This means better oral health care without additional financial strain for families in Brampton and beyond.

How to Apply for These Programs

✅ Healthy Smiles Ontario:

• Apply online through Ontario.ca/healthysmiles

• Contact the Region of Peel Public Health for assistance

✅ Canadian Dental Care Plan:

• Applications for seniors have already begun

• Children under 18 can apply starting in June 2024

• Check eligibility and apply at Canada.ca/dental

Find a Dentist That Accepts CDCP & Healthy Smiles in Brampton

At Conestoga Dental Centre, we proudly accept both the Canadian Dental Care Plan and Healthy Smiles Ontario. We’re here to help parents navigate their options and provide high-quality dental care for your family.

If you have questions about eligibility or need to book an appointment, contact us today!

📞 Call us at 905-840-0000

📍 Visit us at 380 Bovaird Dr. E in Brampton, Ontario

A healthy smile starts with the right care—let’s make sure your family gets the coverage they deserve!