What Dental Services are Free for Children in Ontario?
The Healthy Smiles Ontario program provides a comprehensive range of free dental services for eligible children and youth aged 0 to 17. The program focuses on both preventive care to maintain oral health and restorative treatments to fix existing problems.
Covered Preventive and Restorative Services
- Regular dental checkups: One comprehensive dental exam is covered every 12 months to monitor development and oral health.
- Dental cleanings: Professional scaling and polishing are covered twice per benefit year.
- Fluoride treatment: One application per year is available for high-risk children to help strengthen enamel.
- Fillings: Cavity restorations using tooth-colored composite materials are covered based on clinical necessity.
- X-rays: Necessary diagnostic imaging is included in the program.
- Tooth extractions: Both routine and emergency extractions are fully covered when a tooth is severely damaged or medically necessary to remove.
- Emergency dental care: Urgent exams and palliative treatments to address severe pain or infection are provided.
Important Exclusions
It is important to note that elective or cosmetic procedures are not covered by the program. This includes teeth whitening, porcelein veneers, and gum contouring. Additionally, orthodontics (braces) and sedation for dental anxiety are generally not included, except in very rare cases of severe medical necessity requiring prior approval.
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