Friday, April 01, 2016
The New Healthy Smiles Ontario Program
Good oral health is important to the overall health of children and youth. It’s very important to start seeing a dentist when your child is 12 months old and to keep going regularly. Healthy Smiles Ontario pays for regular check-ups, preventive care and treatment.
Who is eligible?
Children and youth 17 and under may be eligible if:- They are residents of Ontario; and
- They are members of a household that meets the income eligibility requirements.
Note: Children 17 and under are automatically eligible and automatically enrolled in Healthy Smiles Ontario when they or their family receive: Ontario Works, Temporary Care Assistance, Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities or the Ontario Disability Support Program. Children and youth with other dental insurance coverage are no longer automatically excluded.
How do i enroll?- Go to ontario.ca/healthysmiles
- Call ServiceOntario INFOline toll-free at 1-844-296-6306 (TTY toll-free at 1-800-387-5559)
- Your local public health unit can also help you enroll.
Go to ontario.ca/healthysmiles to find out which public health unit serves your area
Once enrollment has been confirmed you will receive a Healthy Smiles Ontario dental card. The dental card must be presented to your dental provider at each visit to receive dental care under the program.
What services are covered?- Regular visits to a licensed dental provider, such as a dentist or dental hygienist
- Dental services including check-ups, cleaning, fillings, x-rays and scaling
- Urgent or emergency oral health issues
Where to access dental care including emergency dental care?- If you have a dentist, contact their office to find out if they participate in Healthy Smiles Ontario
- If you do not have a dentist, contact your local public health unit for help
- Go to ontario.ca/healthysmiles to find out which public health unit serves your area
Why is oral health important?
Cavities and gum disease can be painful and can lead to serious infections, affecting the growth of adult teeth. Pain can result in loss of sleep, affect a child’s ability to eat, and can impact a child’s ability to learn and attend school. Good oral health is important for your child’s self-esteem, sense of well-being, and their overall health. Prevent oral health problems before they start!
To find out more about Healthy Smiles Ontario, visit www.healthunit.org/dental ; call the Health ACTION Line at 1-800-660-5853; email us at hso@healthunit.org or text 613-207-0187. You can also connect with us on Facebook and twitter @LGLHealthUnit for important public health updates.
Contact: Susan Healey, Communications Co-ordinator, 613-802-0550
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