Smile Without Worry!
Dental care in Canada is changing. With the rollout of the new federal Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), more households will soon have help covering the cost of check-ups, cleanings, and essential treatments. But even with this national program expanding in stages, many Waterloo Region residents still need affordable options right now or may not qualify for CDCP right away. Fortunately, there are several local programs, clinics, and supports available for children, seniors, and low-income adults that make dental health more accessible.
Who qualifies for help with dental costs?
- Children (under 18) from low-income families may qualify for Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO), which provides free preventive, routine, and emergency dental care Region of Waterloo.
- Adults (18+) not on social assistance, with limited income, may receive free emergency care through Region of Waterloo Public Health clinics—typically fillings or extractions once in a lifetime when income thresholds apply Region of Waterloo.
- Seniors (65+) with very low income can apply for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP) for free routine dental services like exams, cleanings, X-rays, extractions, and dentures repair Region of Waterloo.
- Ontario Works (OW) or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) recipients automatically qualify for HSO for children and may be eligible for adult care under Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) plus OW/ODSP support Region of Waterloo.
Where can you get care?
Region of Waterloo Public Health Dental Clinics
- Locations in Cambridge and Waterloo staffed by dentists and hygienists 211 Ontario.
- Adult services are limited to emergency fillings or extractions once in a lifetime Region of Waterloo.
- Call 519-575-4400 ext. 3086 or submit the Income Assessment to apply Region of Waterloo.
Community Dental Clinic at The Working Centre
- Free basic dental care for people experiencing or at-risk of homelessness in Kitchener The Working Centre.
- Run by volunteer dentists; services include exams, extractions, cleanings, repairs. No fees The Working Centre.
Langs Community Health Centre in Cambridge
- Offers OSDCP-funded care for low-income seniors and recent expansion providing emergency and basic services to adults aged 16–65 without other coverage Waterloo Region Community Foundation.
Eligibility checklist
| Program | Who it covers | What’s included | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthy Smiles Ontario | Children ≤17 from low-income households or on OW/ODSP | Preventive, routine, emergency dental care | Apply via Public Health (519-575-4400 ext 5010) or online Region of Waterloo |
| Public Health Dental Clinics | Adults & children meeting income thresholds | Basic emergency care (e.g. fillings, extractions) | Income assessment via Public Health clinics Region of Waterloo |
| Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP) | Seniors 65+, low net income (< $22 200 single; $37 100 couple) | Routine and restorative care, dentures | Apply online or by mail; call for waitlist info Region of Waterloo |
| The Working Centre Dental Clinic | Those experiencing/at-risk of homelessness | Free volunteer-run exams, repairs, cleanings | Contact clinic at 226-476-3141 The Working Centre |
| Langs Community Health Centre Clinic | Seniors & uninsured adults 16–65 | Emergencies, preventive, basic restorative care | Self-referral or via primary care team Waterloo Region Community Foundation |
How do I prove eligibility?
For Public Health and OSDCP programs, bring income proof (like your Notice of Assessment or tax return) to your first appointment. Seniors also need SIN for application Region of Waterloo.
Is there a waitlist?
OSDCP is in high demand—eligible seniors should call 226-807-0750 to join the waitlist 211 Ontario.
What if I’m not eligible?
You may still qualify for emergency dental coverage via OW discretionary benefits—call 519-883-2100 (option 1) Region of Waterloo.
Quick Steps to Get Dental Help (If You’re Low-Income in Waterloo Region):
- Determine your situation: child, adult, senior, OW/ODSP recipient?
- Choose the right program: HSO for kids, OSDCP seniors, Public Health for basic emergency adult care, Working Centre for homelessness-related needs.
- Gather documents: income proof, OW/ODSP letters, IDs, etc.
- Call the program: Public Health (519-575-4400), The Working Centre, or Langs Community Health Centre.
- Send application (for OSDCP) or income form. Prepare to book appointment.
Why this matters
Nearly 138,000 residents in Waterloo Region lack dental coverage, and about 104,000 skip the dentist due to cost Waterloo Region Community Foundation. These local programs help bridge those gaps—ensuring that children, seniors, and vulnerable adults can access basic dental care, manage pain, and maintain their oral health without financial hardship.
