Key Messages
- As part of its comprehensive plan to end hallway health care, Ontario is investing in programs that keep seniors healthy in their communities longer.
- Each year in Ontario, preventable dental issues like gum disease, infections and chronic pain lead to more than 60,000 emergency department visits — a significant portion of which are by seniors.
- Many lower income seniors face challenges accessing regular dental care due to finances and other obstacles, impacting their overall well-being.
- That is why our government is launching the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program, which will provide free, high-quality routine dental care for eligible low-income seniors.
- A new user-friendly web portal to apply for the program is now open and can be accessed at ontario.ca/SeniorsDental. Seniors can also pick up an application form at local public health units.
- This new dental care program will help eligible seniors receive the quality dental care they deserve.
- Ontarians aged 65 and over with an income of $19,300 or less, or couples with a combined annual income of $32,300 or less, who do not have dental benefits, will qualify for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program.
- These seniors will be able to access dental services in public health units, all across our province, including some mobile dental clinics. Seniors will also be able to access dental services at participating community health centres and Aboriginal Health Access Centres.
- Seniors can apply to the program today, however access to the full range of dental services will vary across the province. The program will continue to expand in the coming year.
- Our government’s annual investment of approximately $90 million will go a long way and make a tremendous difference in helping all seniors live healthy lives.
- By keeping seniors healthy, we will help reduce unnecessary trips to the hospital and prevent chronic diseases to support ending hallway health care and increase quality of life for all seniors across the province.
- Ontario remains committed to protecting what matters most to seniors and their families.