Dental benefit
considerations

Seniors optional dental benefits program

The provincial Dental and Optical Assistance for Seniors programs provides basic optional dental coverage up to a maximum of $5,000 every five years.

Basic dental services covered include the following:

• Checkups and diagnostic services, such as examinations and X-rays.
• Cleanings and preventative services, such as polishing and scaling.
• Restorative services, such as fillings and trauma or pain control.
• Extractions—both simple and complicated.
• Root canals (endodontics).
• Procedures related to gum disease, such as periodontics and root planing.
• Prosthodontics and full or partial basic dentures.

There is a maximum amount of coverage for each dental procedure and a specific number of times you can receive assistance within certain time periods. If you’re eligible for the maximum amount (100 per cent), you’re eligible for up to the maximum coverage allowed under the schedule of dental procedures for this program. A minimum coverage of 10 to 99 per cent is allowed under the schedule and increases as annual income decreases.

The Dental Assistance for Seniors Program pays dental expenses according to the plan’s fee schedule. To maximize your dental benefits, you may wish to compare the fees of two or more dental providers.

You must be 65 years old and older and meet the financial eligibility criteria to be eligible for the program.