Dental Insurance BC: Which is the Best in 2024?

Maintaining good oral health is crucial for overall well-being, and dental insurance plays a significant role in ensuring access to essential care.

Unfortunately, in British Columbia, dental health services are not well covered by public health insurance so having a private BC dental insurance becomes extremely essential.

But how do you pick the best BC dental insurance plan that suits your needs and budgets? This comprehensive article answers your questions about public and private dental care in BC, best policies, coverage, prices, and also get free quotes.

Our 2024 ranking of BC's best dental insurance

Sun Life dental insurance: Inclusive coverage options

Sun Life, one of the most prominent insurance providers in Canada, offers comprehensive dental insurance coverage that suits every need. The dental coverage can be purchased with the health insurance plan as an optional benefit and not as a standalone plan.

You can access dental care through Health and Dental Choice A where dental coverage is included by default however with restrictions. If you want more comprehensive coverage including restorative procedures like endodontics, periodontics, oral surgery, and more, you can add optional dental coverage through Health Choice B with dental and Health Choice C with dental.

Dental Coverage Options	Health and Dental Choice A	Health Choice B	Health Choice C
Preventive Coverage	Included	Optional	Optional
Reimbursement Rate	80%	80%	80%
Annual Maximum	$700	$700 combined	Year 1: $750, Year 2+: $1,000 combined
Restorative Coverage	No coverage	Optional Reimbursement Rate: 50% Annual Maximum: $700 combined Waiting Period: One year	Optional Reimbursement Rate : 50% Annual Maximum: Year 1: No coverage, Year 2+: $1,000 combined Waiting Period: One year
Restorative Services	No coverage	Endodontics, periodontics, oral surgery, crowns, onlays, bridges, dentures (and repairs)	Same as B
Preventive Services	Examinations, tests, x-rays, white fillings, space maintainers, scaling, extractions, pit and fissure sealant, recall visits	Same as A, plus minor emergency treatments	Same as B, plus recall visits every nine months
Premium per month (for 40-year-old male BC resident)	$92.52	$152.04 (Optional Dental included)	$201.37 (Optional Dental included)

Note: Preventive services focus on examinations, tests, and minor treatments, while restorative services cover more extensive dental procedures. The eligibility requirement is that everyone on the application must have had dental coverage through the client's group benefits plan.

The figures you see above and premiums will vary with the services you opt for and the extent of coverage. You can check out this pdf for more information on dental insurance offered by Sun Life.

If you like what Sun Life offers and think it could be the right fit for you or your family, you can get quotes directly from Sun Life and get a policy that suits your unique needs.

Green Shield Canada Dental Insurance: Options for every budget

Green Shield Canada (GSC) offers three major health insurance bc plans that provide dental care in different ranges: Prism Continuum, Prism Spectra, and Prism Precision.

Prism Continuum is designed for comprehensive coverage, providing 80% coverage for preventive and basic care, no deductible or coverage limit. This plan at $317 is ideal if you want extensive benefits.

Prism Spectra, with a lower cost of $235, offers 80% coverage for preventive care and up to 80% for basic care. It has a first-year coverage limit of $500, making it a fair option with progressive coverage.

Prism Precision, affordable at $131, is a limited plan. It covers 70% of preventive care but does not cover basic care. The first-year coverage limit is $250, with no deductibles or coverage limits. This is a budget-friendly option.

Here's a table on the dental coverage from three major plans of GSC Insurance:

Plan	Dental Coverage	Premium
Prism Continuum®	Basic: Preventative cleaning and polishing, routine exam, x-ray, filling, extractions, fluoride treatments, pit and fissure sealants, general anaesthetics Coverage: 80%	$317
Prism Continuum®	Comprehensive Basic: Periodontal treatment, endodontics, denture cleaning, repairs, rebasing, relining Coverage: 80% throughout	$317
Prism Continuum®	Major Services: Dentures (full/partial), standard crowns, standard bridges Coverage: 50% starting in 3rd benefit year	$317
PrismSpectra®	Basic: Preventative cleaning and polishing, routine exam, x-ray, filling, extractions, fluoride treatments, pit and fissure sealants, general anaesthetics. Coverage: 80%	$235
PrismSpectra®	Comprehensive Basic: Periodontal treatment, endodontics, denture cleaning, repairs, rebasing, relining Coverage: 60% in first 12 months, 70% in next 12 months, 80% thereafter	$235
PrismSpectra®	Major Services: Dentures (full/partial), standard crowns, standard bridges Coverage: 50% starting in the 3rd benefit year	$235
Prism Precision®	Basic: Preventative cleaning and polishing, routine exams, x-ray, filling, extractions, fluoride treatments, pit and fissure sealants, general anaesthetics. Coverage: 70%	$131
Prism Precision®	Comprehensive Basic: Periodontal treatment, endodontics, denture cleaning, repairs, rebasing, relining. Coverage: 60% in first 12 months, 70% in next 12 months, 80% thereafter	$131
Prism Precision®	Major Services: Dentures (full/partial), standard crowns, standard bridges. Coverage: 50% starting in 3rd benefit year	$131

The figures you see above and premiums will vary with the services you opt for and extent of coverage. You can checkout this pdf for more information on dental insurance offered by GSC.

If you like what GSC offers and think it could be the dental insurance Ontario plan that's the right fit for you or your family, you can get quotes directly from GSC and get a policy that suits your unique needs.

Manulife Dental Insurance: Multiple Plans for different needs

Manulife offers many comprehensive medical and dental insurance plans. Whether you are looking for dental benefits, drug benefits, or a combination, you will find a plan that suits you.

Manulife dental coverage is offered under four broad plans: DentalPlus Basic, DentalPlus Enhanced, ComboPlus Basic, and ComboPlus Enhanced. The extent of dental care varies from basic coverage like cleaning and scaling to extensive coverage like major restorative dental procedures based on the policy.

Here's a table on the Manulife health Insurance plans with dental cover:

Plan Type	Dental Coverage	Premium
DentalPlus Basic	Year 1: 50% of first $1,150 (up to $575 every year)	$78.5
DentalPlus Basic	Year 2+: 80% of first $400 and 50% of next $860 (up to $750 every year)	$78.5
DentalPlus Basic	Check-ups every 9 months	$78.5
DentalPlus Basic	Included: Examinations, Cleaning, Scaling, Polishing, Fillings, Select Extractions	$78.5
DentalPlus Basic	Excluded: Oral Surgery, Periodontics, Endodontics (Root Canal), Orthodontics, Crowns, Bridges, Dentures	$78.5
ComboPlus Starter	70% of first $575 (up to $400 every year)	$80.9
ComboPlus Starter	Check-ups every 9 months	$80.9
ComboPlus Starter	Included: Examinations, Cleaning, Scaling, Polishing, Fillings, Select Extractions	$80.9
ComboPlus Starter	Excluded: Oral Surgery, Periodontics, Endodontics (Root Canal), Orthodontics, Crowns, Bridges, Dentures	$80.9
ComboPlus Basic	80% of first $400 and 50% of next $860 (up to $750 every year)	$94.6
ComboPlus Basic	Check-ups every 9 months	$94.6
ComboPlus Basic	Included: Examinations, Cleaning, Scaling, Polishing, Fillings, Select Extractions	$94.6
ComboPlus Basic	Excluded: Oral Surgery, Periodontics, Endodontics (Root Canal), Orthodontics, Crowns, Bridges, Dentures	$94.6

The figures and premiums vary with the extent of coverage. You could check this pdf for more information on the dental cover offered by Manulife.

If you liked what Manulife offers and you think it could be the right fit for you or your family, or both, you can now get quotes directly from Manulife and get a policy that suits your unique needs.

Blue Cross Dental Insurance: Flexible choice

Blue Cross offers several plans that include health benefits, drug, and dental coverage depending on your needs. Blue Cross health and dental plans vary across provinces and policies. However, all Blue Cross health insurance packages offer the option of adding dental cover.

There are Flex Plans that offer 80% preventive coverage and 50% basic coverage; one of their more affordable options for basic care. Their entry plans include dental maintenance services such as exams, cleanings, X-rays, and fillings.

Essential plans, in addition to the services in entry plans, cover extractions, root canals, and more. Enhanced plans further include periodontal services for gum health, major dental procedures, and even orthodontics.

It must be noted that dental care is an optional benefit that you can pick and choose from to add to your Blue Cross Health Insurance plan.

Here's a table summarising the dental care benefits offered under some major Blue Cross Health Plans.

Plan Type	Coverage	Premium
Flex Plan	Preventive Coverage: 80% reimbursement (examinations, X-rays, laboratory tests, preventive services, space maintainers) Basic Coverage: 50% reimbursement (removal of erupted teeth, restorative services, endodontics, periodontics, oral surgery) Combined Maximum: $500 for first year, $1,000 for subsequent years; coverage ends at 65th birthday Accidental Dental: $1,000 per accident	$41.22
Entry	Preventive Coverage: Dental Exam & Cleaning, X-rays (3 month wait) Basic Coverage: 60% ($500/year) (Fillings - 3 month wait) Accidental Dental: $7,000/lifetime	$48.01
Essential	Preventive Coverage: Dental Exam & Cleaning, X-rays (6 month wait) Basic Coverage: 70% (Fillings, extractions and root canal - 6 month wait) Accidental Dental: $7,000/lifetime	$65.94
Enhanced	Preventive Coverage: Dental Exam & Cleaning, X-rays (6 month wait) Basic Coverage: 80% (Fillings, extractions and root canal - 6 month wait; Periodontal Services Coverage - 24 month wait (60% ($1,200 / year)); Major Dental Coverage - 24 month wait (60% ($500 / year)); Orthodontics Coverage (age 18 and under - 24 month wait (60% ($1,500 / lifetime)) Accidental Dental: $7,000/lifetime	$98.12

The figures and premiums vary with the extent of coverage. You could check this pdf for more information on the dental cover offered by Blue Cross.

If you liked what Blue Cross offers and you think it could be the right fit for you or your family, or both, you can now get quotes directly from Blue Cross and get a policy that suits your unique needs.

GMS Dental Insurance: Comprehensive coverage

GMS, i.e. Group Medical Services, offers plans ranging from basic coverage to comprehensive health cover, all of which have the option to add dental benefits and/or drug benefits.

GMS health insurance provides dental coverage for basic services like exams, fillings, and polishing, promoting preventive care. The coverage also includes major services such as crowns, bridges, and dentures, offering comprehensive coverage for restoring or replacing teeth based on the specific policy you opt for.

Here's a table on what some popular GMS Dental coverage plans offer:

Plan Type	Dental Coverage	Premium
Essential Plan	Preventative Coverage: 80% coverage for regular check-ups, examinations, cleanings, and scaling. Basic Coverage: 80% coverage for checkups (every 6 months), polishing, fillings, etc. Major Coverage: 50% coverage for major dental services, inlays, onlays, crowns, bridges, dentures, etc. Combined Maximum: $1,000 for dental expenses (includes basic and major services) Accidental Dental: $2,000 per injury	$121.25
Basic Plan	Year 1: $500 (Preventative Care and Basic Services) Year 2: $750 (Preventative Care, Basic and Major Services) Year 3+: $1000 (Preventative Care, Basic and Major Services) Accidental Dental: $500 per injury	$70.75

The figures you see above and premiums will vary with the services you opt for and the extent of coverage. You could checkout this pdf for more information on the dental insurance offered by GMS.

If you liked what GMS offers and you think it could be the right fit for you or your family, or both, you can now get quotes directly from GMS and get a policy that suits your unique needs.

Why do you need private dental insurance in BC?

In British Columbia, the Medical Services Plan (MSP) provides coverage for medically necessary services delivered by physicians and certain healthcare practitioners. However, when it comes to dental services, MSP has limited coverage. Here are the key details on what MSP covers and doesn't cover in terms of dental:

What does MSP cover?

1. Oral surgery performed by a physician in a hospital setting when medically necessary.
2. Some dental-related services that are part of a hospital stay for a medically necessary procedure, such as extractions required for a surgical intervention.

What does MSP not cover?

1. Routine dental check-ups and cleanings.
2. Dental fillings, root canals, crowns, and bridges.
3. Dentures and other prosthetic devices.
4. Orthodontic treatments (braces).
5. Cosmetic dental procedures, such as teeth whitening or veneers.
6. Dental implants, except when medically necessary as part of an approved surgical procedure.

While MSP provides coverage for essential medical services, it does not include coverage for most dental treatments. Therefore, private extended health and dental insurance insurance is necessary for individuals who want access to comprehensive dental care and wish to offset the costs associated with routine check-ups, preventive care, and various dental procedures not covered by MSP.

How do I buy private dental insurance in BC?

Private dental care is often included with private health insurance plans, but you can also find dental-only plans.

To buy personal dental insurance in BC, research reputable insurance providers and compare their plans. Determine your dental needs, get quotes, and choose a plan that fits your requirements and budget. Enroll or apply online with the selected provider, make premium payments, and receive confirmation and an insurance card for dental visits.

While this process may seem daunting, you could simply use our comparator at the top of this page to get quick info on prices, coverage, and even get free quotes from providers in no time.

8 tips to get cheap BC dental insurance

Here are some essential ways to get the best dental insurance plans for individuals BC or couples or groups:

1. Shop around and compare plans to find affordable options using HelloSafe's easy to use comparator.
2. Consider group or employer-sponsored plans for lower premiums and better coverage.
3. Look for standalone dental plans that focus solely on dental coverage.
4. Opt for higher deductibles or limited coverage if you don't anticipate major dental issues.
5. Explore dental discount plans for cost-saving benefits.
6. Compare annual maximums to understand coverage limits.
7. Check co-pays to see your out-of-pocket expenses per visit.
8. Utilize eligible Medical Expense Tax Credits (under a Health Spending Account) to save on dental expenses.

To compare the coverage and prices of health and dental insurance BC plans, use our comparison tool to see the best options available. Get quick and free quotes based on your unique needs and budget.

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What does private dental insurance BC cover?

Private dental plans typically offer basic and comprehensive coverage policies.

A basic dental insurance policy will typically offer basic services like routine cleaning and tooth maintenance along with some minor procedures like simple tooth extraction.

How much does a private dental insurance BC plan cost?

A couple in BC insured could expect to spend $80-100 per month for dental coverage. Keep in mind the average cost of private dental in BC depends on how many people are insured on your plan, what the plan offers and the provider.

See the chart below to get an idea of what you can expect to pay for the 2023-2024 policy year. Note that rates may increase over time and with the age of the policyholder:

Premium frequency	Single	Couple	Family
Monthly premium	$40-75	$80-100	$125-150
Annual premium	$480 to $900	$960 to $1200 per year	$1500 to $1800 per year

How much do dental services cost in BC without insurance?

The cost of dental care in BC will entirely depend on what you have done and how invasive the procedure is.

If you get a dental cleaning in Vancouver, BC, the price for adults ranges widely from as little to $180 to more than $485 depending on the time it takes to complete and whether there is fluoride treatment or whitening.

For children in Vancouver, the price for a dental visit can range from $50 to $285. This may include services such as complete exams, x-rays, and dental cleaning and polishing.

We have added a chart to show the average costs of more comprehensive services such as dental implants and crowns. As you can see the cost of dental crowns or dental implants in BC can be a big out-of-pocket expense.

Dental Service	Anticipated Cost
Dental Implants	$4000 to $5000 per replacement tooth $25 000 to $30 000 per jaw.
Dental Crown	$1000 to $2000
Extractions	$75 up to $300

Take a look at the BC dental fee guide for 2023.

You can see that the cost of dental care in BC can quickly become quite significant. Even a basic dental cleaning in BC can add up. A private dental insurance plan could help either avoid completely or eliminate a good majority of the out-of-pocket costs.

Now that you know private dental insurance is a necessity, you don't need to look further than our comparator tool below to get all the info on prices, coverage, and even get quick quotes from the best dental insurances in BC.

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Is there low-income dental insurance assistance in BC?

If you receive income or disability assistance, you may be eligible for low-income dental assistance.

If you are an adult and are eligible for general health supplements, receive disability assistance or qualify as a person with barriers, you would be eligible for basic dental coverage.

The basic dental coverage you and your spouse would be eligible to receive:

• Routine dental services including restorations, extractions and preventative services
• Partial dentures including replacement dentures or reline/re-base of dentures
• Crowns and bridges (however they will only be covered under certain circumstances)

If you receive any kind of income assistance and have had your complete upper and/or lower teeth removed in the previous six months to relieve pain, then you may also be eligible for dentures under the low-income dental assistance program.

Is there low-income dental assistance for children in BC?

Low-income dental benefits are also available to children of those receiving assistance. Eligible children under the age of 19, can:

• receive up to $2000 over two calendar years, beginning January 1 each odd-numbered year.
• up to $1000 per year to cover the cost of dental treatment performed in a hospital under a general anesthetic.

How does the BC children’s hospital dental work?

BC Children’s Hospital provides preventive dental care and oral health diagnoses', as well as treatment for infants and medically compromised children. Surgical treatment under general anesthesia is also offered for pediatric patients who need specialized surgical care.

The BC children’s hospital dental service is offered to children aged 4 and under with severe tooth decay and to children aged 17 and under with compromising medical conditions. This requires a referral from a dentist.

How to cancel a private dental insurance BC plan?

To cancel, you need to contact your insurance provider directly. You can do this by calling the customer service number listed on your insurance card or policy.

Inform them of your decision to cancel the coverage and provide any required information, such as your policy number and personal details. Some companies may have specific procedures or forms for cancellation, so it's essential to follow their instructions.

Additionally, be aware of any notice periods or cancellation fees that apply. Keep records of your cancellation request for your reference and ensure that you receive written confirmation from the company acknowledging the cancellation.

How to file a claim for private dental insurance BC?

To file a claim, you should first receive dental treatment from your dentist. Your dentist will provide you with an itemized receipt or dental claim form detailing the services and associated costs.

Fill out the necessary information on the claim form and attach the receipt. Submit the completed claim form along with the supporting documents to your provider. You can typically submit claims through various methods, such as mail, online portals, or mobile apps, depending on your provider.

Once the claim is received and processed by the provider, they will reimburse you for the eligible expenses based on the terms of your policy. Be sure to keep a copy of all documents for your records and follow up with the provider if you have any questions about the claim process.