How to get cheap dental insurance in Canada in 2025?
- For users without health benefits through their employer
- For users losing their group coverage
- For users without health benefits through their employer
- For users losing their group coverage
The PHI Standard Plan from Sun Life offers balanced and enhanced coverage compared to entry-level options, with 70% reimbursement for both preventive and basic dental care. The plan starts with a $750 annual limit in the first year and features no deductible or age restrictions, simplifying access and reducing upfront costs. This makes it a strong contender for those seeking a solid mix of affordability and extended protection. Although it doesn’t cover major dental procedures, the improved reimbursement rate and higher first-year ceiling make it a step up from basic plans, especially for those who expect recurring dental visits.
Ideal for: This plan is ideal for individuals recently removed from employer-sponsored group insurance or self-employed professionals wanting a stable, mid-tier option. It’s also a good fit for early retirees or anyone needing predictable out-of-pocket limits without undergoing medical screening.
- 70% coverage for both preventive and basic dental services
- $750 reimbursement limit in the first year
- No deductible or age-based restrictions
- Designed for those transitioning from employer benefits
- No coverage for major or specialized dental treatments
- Annual limit may not suffice for users with frequent dental procedures
- No add-ons for vision or travel care compared to other hybrid plans
- Good quality-price ratio
- Complete basic care coverage
- Good quality-price ratio
- Complete basic care coverage
Blue Flex from Blue Cross offers a balanced and accessible dental insurance plan with an emphasis on affordability and preventive care. It covers 80% of preventive services and 50% of basic dental care, positioning itself as a practical solution for those who want essential dental protection without paying for extensive or specialized procedures. The first-year coverage is capped at $500, and there’s a modest $50 deductible, which makes it approachable for newcomers to dental insurance or those transitioning from employer-sponsored plans. The plan is limited to individuals aged 59 and under, and it’s particularly praised for its solid cost-to-coverage ratio and clarity in benefits. However, it doesn’t extend to major dental procedures or orthodontics, which may be a drawback for families or individuals with more comprehensive care needs.
Ideal for: This plan suits younger individuals, freelancers, or early retirees who primarily seek preventive maintenance and peace of mind. It’s also a good fit for those between jobs or without access to group benefits, looking for basic protection at a reasonable cost.
- 80% reimbursement on preventive care
- Low deductible of $50
- Strong reputation with a 4.9/5 rating
- Transparent and simple coverage structure
- Ideal for entry-level or budget-conscious subscribers
- Only 50% coverage for basic care
- Annual coverage capped at $500
- No coverage for major or orthodontic treatments
- Age limit set at 59
- Acceptable dental insurance with $1,000 coverage
- Acceptable dental insurance with $1,000 coverage
The EssentialPlan from Group Medical Services (GMS) offers straightforward and solid dental coverage with 80% reimbursement for both preventive and basic care, capped at a combined $1,000 per year. The absence of a deductible or age limit makes this plan particularly accessible, and it stands out for delivering maximum coverage right from the first year—unlike other plans that ramp up over time. While it doesn’t include major dental procedures or broader paramedical benefits, it does what it promises: providing a dependable and uncomplicated dental solution at a fair value.
Ideal profile: This plan is ideal for individuals or couples seeking reliable, mid-range dental protection, particularly those who want high first-year value and simple terms. It's also a smart choice for people new to private dental insurance who want full entry-level coverage with no waiting curve.
- 80% coverage for both preventive and basic dental services
- Up to $1,000 in reimbursement available from year one
- No deductible or age restrictions
- Simple, predictable coverage structure
- No coverage for major dental work
- Lacks vision or travel medical benefits
- Not customizable for broader health needs beyond dental care
- Most popular plan from GMS
- LifeWorks plan included
- GMS pay-direct card included
- Most popular plan from GMS
- LifeWorks plan included
- GMS pay-direct card included
The OmniPlan from Group Medical Services (GMS) offers one of the most comprehensive dental and health insurance packages available in the individual market. With up to $1,000 in combined coverage for preventive and basic dental care—including exams, cleanings, and fillings—it provides generous support for routine and slightly more involved dental needs. Notably, there is no deductible and no age-related coverage limit, which increases its appeal for a broader demographic. Although the first-year dental cap for basic services is $500, the higher total combined annual limit means users can access a wider range of benefits across different categories, including physiotherapy, massage therapy, eye exams, and glasses, making it a holistic health option beyond just dental care.
Ideal for: This plan is ideal for individuals or families seeking robust, all-around health coverage, especially those with ongoing needs in both dental and paramedical services. It’s also a solid match for professionals without employer benefits, early retirees, or those who prefer comprehensive private plans over public coverage gaps.
- Generous combined dental coverage up to $1,000
- No deductible or age limit
- Includes paramedical services like physiotherapy and vision care
- One of the most complete benefit packages on the market
- Dental-specific reimbursement capped at $500 in year one
- Higher premiums likely due to extensive coverage
- May be excessive for users seeking dental-only insurance
- $150 for vision care coverage every 2 years
- Emergency medical travel coverage included
- Oral surgery, periodontics, and endodontics coverages are not included
- $150 for vision care coverage every 2 years
- Emergency medical travel coverage included
Manulife’s FlexCare ComboPlus Starter plan offers basic preventive dental care with 70% reimbursement, capped at $400 annually. It does not include coverage for basic procedures such as fillings or extractions, nor for major services like oral surgery or periodontal treatments. However, it stands out by bundling non-dental health benefits like emergency medical travel insurance and $150 in vision care every two years, which adds value for mobile or wellness-oriented individuals. There are no deductibles or age restrictions, keeping it accessible and simple for newcomers to private insurance.
Ideal for: This plan is ideal for budget-conscious individuals with minimal dental needs—such as students, young adults, or part-time workers—who want light dental maintenance and basic health extras, without committing to higher premiums.
- 70% coverage for preventive dental services, up to $400 annually
- Includes emergency travel medical insurance
- Vision care benefit of $150 every two years
- No deductible and open to all age groups
- No coverage for basic or major dental care
- Low dental reimbursement cap
- Limited usefulness for those with even moderate dental treatment needs
Provincial healthcare in Canada does not typically cover all your dental needs leaving you with a heavy financial burden. That's why private health and dental insurance plans are critical.
But private coverage could be a little expensive. So how do you get cheap dental insurance? What are the most affordable options?
Read on to find out how you can get cheap dental insurance in Canada, the coverage options, and more. Use our comparator to compare the cheapest plans and get free dental insurance quotes in seconds right here.
Affordable Dental Insurance: 5 Key Takeaways
- Most plans cover preventive, basic, and major dental services.
- Limitations such as annual maximums, deductibles, and copays apply.
- Exclusions include cosmetic procedures, pre-existing conditions, and more.
- Affordable options include Pacific Blue Cross, GMS, Manulife, and Sun Life.
- Choosing wisely, raising deductibles, and using preventive care can help save money.
What does dental insurance cover in Canada?
Dental insurance coverage in Canada can vary depending on the specific plan and provider, but most plans typically cover a range of preventive, basic, and major dental services. Here's a general overview of what most dental insurance covers in Canada:
| Category | Services |
|---|---|
| Preventive Dental Care | Regular checkups and cleanings X-rays Fluoride treatments Sealants |
| Basic Restorative Dental Care | Fillings Extractions Root canals Crowns Bridges |
| Major Restorative Dental Care | Dentures Implants |
| Orthodontic Care | Braces Invisalign |
Additional Coverage: Some dental insurance plans may also cover additional services, such as periodontal treatment, oral surgery, and sleep apnea treatment.
It's important to note that dental insurance plans often have limitations, such as annual maximums, deductibles, and copays. These limitations can affect the amount of coverage you receive for each service. Be sure to carefully review the details of your plan before you use it.
If you want to look at the most affordable health and dental insurance plans in Canada, you can do it using our comparator below. Compare plans and get free dental insurance quotes in seconds right here.
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What does dental insurance in Canada not cover?
Here are some of the services that are usually not covered by dental insurance plans in Canada:
- Cosmetic procedures: This includes procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, and elective orthodontics.
- Pre-existing conditions: Dental insurance plans typically will not cover pre-existing conditions, such as periodontal disease or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
- Experimental procedures: New or experimental procedures may not be covered by dental insurance plans.
- Non-essential dental care: This includes procedures that are not deemed medically necessary, such as tooth jewelry or mouthguards.
- Out-of-network providers: If you see a dentist who is not part of your insurance network, you may have to pay a higher copay or your insurance may not cover any of the costs.
Additionally, dental insurance plans typically will not cover dental care that is received while traveling outside of Canada.
What are the types of dental insurance in Canada?
In Canada, you can get dental insurance as a standalone plan or as a part of health insurance. Here are the most common ways to get it:
Private dental insurance plans
There are many private dental insurance companies in Canada that offer a variety of plans with different levels of coverage and deductibles. These plans can be purchased through an employer, an insurance broker, or directly from an insurance company.
Government-funded dental programs
The Canadian government offers a few different dental programs that provide coverage for eligible Canadians. These programs typically cover a limited range of services, such as preventive care and basic fillings. For example:
<strong>Cheap Dental Insurance Nova Scotia</strong>
- Nova Scotia offers the Nova Scotia Dental Assistance Program (NSDAP) for low-income individuals and families.
- Community health centers like the North End Community Health Centre in Halifax provide affordable dental care on a sliding scale.
- Dalhousie University's Faculty of Dentistry offers low-cost or free dental care to patients as part of student training.
Employer-provided dental insurance
Some employers in Canada offer dental insurance as a benefit to their employees. These plans are typically paid for by the employer, but employees may have to pay a small premium.
Student dental insurance
Many universities and colleges in Canada offer dental insurance to their students. These plans are typically less expensive than private plans.
How to get <strong>cheap dental insurance Toronto</strong> plans for students?
Toronto has several dental schools, such as the University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry, that offer low-cost or free dental care to patients as part of student training. Check out our guide on the best student dental insurance plans.
Dental care clinics
Some dental care clinics in Canada offer their own dental insurance plans. These plans are typically designed to be more affordable than private plans.
<strong>How to get cheap dental insurance Ontario</strong> plans?
- Review plans from various insurance companies like Manulife, Green Shield Canada, and GMS Insurance to find the most competitive rates and coverage.
- Assess whether an individual or a family plan suits your needs. Family plans often offer discounts for multiple members.
What are the best affordable dental insurance plans in Canada?
Finding cheap dental insurance that covers everything can be a challenge, but there are a few options that offer competitive rates without sacrificing coverage. Here are some of the most affordable dental insurance plans in Canada:
- Pacific Blue Cross
- Group Medical Service (GMS)
- Manulife
- Sun Life
Pacific Blue Cross Personal Health Insurance (Dental Only)
Plans from Blue Cross dental insurance start at just $39 per month and cover preventive dental care, basic fillings, and exams. It also includes a $500 annual maximum.
GMS Personal Health Insurance Plans
GMS offers three Personal Health plans that can be customized to fit your needs. The basic plan starts at just $10 per month and covers preventive dental care, basic fillings, and exams. It also includes a $1,000 annual maximum.
Manulife Flexcare® Health and Dental Insurance
Manulife Flexcare® offers a variety of plans with different levels of coverage and deductibles. The basic plan starts at just $12 per month and covers preventive dental care, basic fillings, and exams. It also includes a $1,500 annual maximum.
Sun Life Canada PHI Basic Plan
This Sun Life Canada plan starts at just $14 per month and covers preventive dental care, basic fillings, and exams. It also includes a $500 annual maximum.
Please note that rates reflect the price when you choose dental coverage only. The cost will be higher if you get more coverage. In addition to these plans, there are a number of other insurance companies that offer dental coverage in Canada.
You should compare rates and coverage from several different companies before you choose a plan. Use our comparator below and get personalized dental insurance now right here.
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How to save money on dental insurance?
Here are some tips for saving money on dental insurance:
- Choose a plan that only covers the services you need: If you only need preventive care, you can save money by choosing a plan that does not cover more expensive services, such as crowns and root canals.
- Consider raising your deductible: Your deductible is the amount of money you pay for out-of-pocket dental care before your insurance company starts to reimburse you. By raising your deductible, you can lower your monthly premiums.
- Use your dental insurance wisely: Only go to the dentist for necessary care. Avoid scheduling unnecessary appointments or treatments just because you have insurance.
- Take advantage of preventive care: Preventive care is usually covered by dental insurance with no or a low copay. This includes things like cleanings, checkups, and fluoride treatments.
By following these tips, you can save money on dental insurance and get the coverage you need to keep your smile healthy.
How to get cheap dental work without insurance?
Even without dental insurance, you can still find affordable dental care in Canada. Here are a few options to consider:
- Visit a dental school clinic: Dental schools often offer low-cost or even free dental care to patients as part of their students' training. While the treatment may take longer than usual due to the supervision of a licensed dentist, it can be a cost-effective option.
- Seek out community health centers or clinics: These organizations often provide dental care on a sliding scale based on income, making them accessible to low-income individuals.
- Inquire about government programs: Certain government programs, such as the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) for First Nations people and Inuit, or the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) for refugees, provide dental coverage for eligible individuals.
- Negotiate with your dentist: Some dentists may be willing to offer reduced rates or payment plans for uninsured patients, especially if you have a good rapport with them.
- Consider dental tourism: Traveling to a neighboring province or even a country like Mexico for dental care may be more affordable than seeking treatment in Canada. However, it's crucial to research the quality and safety of dental services before embarking on such a trip.
By utilizing these options and prioritizing preventive care, you can manage your dental health without the burden of high costs, even without dental insurance.
