Is Green Shield Dental Insurance Worth It? A 2025 Review
Our expert's opinion on Green Shield
ScoreGreen Shield Canada presents a compelling yet mixed offering for individual dental insurance, earning a moderate assessment. The insurer provides distinct plan families, such as ZONE for new applicants and LINK for those leaving group benefits, which is a notable market advantage. Reimbursement rates are strong for preventive and basic care, typically at 80%, with annual maximums ranging from $500 to $1,750 depending on the plan tier and tenure. Most plans feature no waiting periods for routine services, encouraging immediate use.
However, access to major care and orthodontics is restricted by a lengthy three-year waiting period and lower 50-60% reimbursement rates. Compared to major competitors like Sun Life, Green Shield's strength lies in its guaranteed acceptance plans for pre-existing conditions, though its premium plans can be pricier.
This makes it particularly suitable for retirees, freelancers, or individuals transitioning between jobs who need immediate basic coverage. While claims are processed efficiently in about five business days through the GreenShield+ digital portal, the company's public reputation is hampered by a very low Trustpilot score of 1.5 from over 80 reviews, indicating significant customer service challenges.
- ✅Guaranteed acceptance LINK plans
- ✅Coverage for pre-existing conditions
- ✅No waiting period for basic and preventive care
- ✅80% reimbursement on most basic services
- ✅Convenient online and mobile app claim submission
- ✅Accidental dental injury coverage up to $10,000
- ✅Plans tailored for retirees and job changers
- ❌Extremely low 1.5 Trustpilot rating
- ❌Long three-year wait for major and orthodontic care
- ❌Orthodontics only in top-tier plans
- ❌Major care reimbursement only 50-60%
- ❌No coverage for cosmetic dentistry
Score- ✅Guaranteed acceptance LINK plans
- ✅Coverage for pre-existing conditions
- ✅No waiting period for basic and preventive care
- ✅80% reimbursement on most basic services
- ✅Convenient online and mobile app claim submission
- ✅Accidental dental injury coverage up to $10,000
- ✅Plans tailored for retirees and job changers
Our expert's opinion on Green Shield
- ✅Guaranteed acceptance LINK plans
- ✅Coverage for pre-existing conditions
- ✅No waiting period for basic and preventive care
- ✅80% reimbursement on most basic services
- ✅Convenient online and mobile app claim submission
- ✅Accidental dental injury coverage up to $10,000
- ✅Plans tailored for retirees and job changers
- ❌Extremely low 1.5 Trustpilot rating
- ❌Long three-year wait for major and orthodontic care
- ❌Orthodontics only in top-tier plans
- ❌Major care reimbursement only 50-60%
- ❌No coverage for cosmetic dentistry
Score- ✅Guaranteed acceptance LINK plans
- ✅Coverage for pre-existing conditions
- ✅No waiting period for basic and preventive care
- ✅80% reimbursement on most basic services
- ✅Convenient online and mobile app claim submission
- ✅Accidental dental injury coverage up to $10,000
- ✅Plans tailored for retirees and job changers
Why trust Hellosafe?
HelloSafe is an international expert in dental insurance, guiding hundreds of thousands of users each month in choosing the right coverage. Our specialists have reviewed the dental insurance plans of leading insurers in CA, carefully analyzing coverage details, pricing, and quality of service. Here is our expert review of this plan.
Types of dental plans offered by Green Shield
Green Shield Canada provides a variety of dental insurance plans designed to meet the needs of different individuals, students, and organizations. The plans are structured to accommodate various life stages and employment situations.
- ZONE plans: For individuals and families who do not have existing health or dental coverage.
- LINK plans: Tailored for those who have recently lost their group benefits and need continuous coverage.
- Student dental plans: Offered through partnerships with post-secondary institutions to cover enrolled students.
- Group/Employer dental plans: Available to employees as part of a workplace benefits package.
- Retiree dental plans: Designed specifically for individuals transitioning from a group plan into retirement.
The Green Shield dental insurance coverage
Green Shield Canada offers a range of dental benefits through its ZONE and LINK plans, with coverage levels varying by the selected tier. While basic services are available immediately on most plans, more extensive treatments like major restorative care and orthodontics are typically reserved for higher-tier plans and involve a waiting period.
The table below provides a comprehensive overview of dental guarantees, including services that may or may not be covered by Green Shield plans.
| Guarantee | Included in plan? | Reimbursement rate | Annual maximum | Waiting period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preventive care (check-ups, cleanings) | Yes | 80% | $500 - $1,750 | None |
| Basic restorative care (fillings, extractions) | Yes | 80% | Included in annual maximum | None |
| Major restorative care (crowns, dental bridges) | Yes (Higher-tier plans) | 50-60% | Included in annual maximum | 3 years |
| Endodontics (root canal therapy) | Yes | 50-80% | Included in annual maximum | Varies by plan |
| Periodontics (gum treatments) | Yes | 50-80% | Included in annual maximum | Varies by plan |
| Oral surgery | Yes | 80% | Included in annual maximum | None |
| Accidental dental injury coverage | Yes | 100% | $5,000 - $10,000 | None |
| Orthodontics (braces) | Yes (Top-tier plans) | 50% | $2,000 (lifetime) | 3 years |
| Dental implants | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
| Cosmetic dentistry (whitening, veneers) | No | Not covered | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Anesthesia/sedation coverage | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
| Emergency dental care | Yes | 80% | Included in annual maximum | None |
The Cost of Green Shield Dental Insurance in 2025
| Type of coverage | Value plan 1 | Value plan 2 | Value plan 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual (1 insured) | About $65/month | About $120/month | About $160/month |
| Couple (2 insured) | About $120/month | About $210/month | About $280/month |
| Single-parent family (1 adult + 2 children) | About $95/month | About $170/month | About $220/month |
| Family (2 adults + 2 children) | About $150/month | About $270/month | About $350/month |
*These are indicative prices and may vary depending on individual circumstances and the selected plan.
Compare the best dental insurance options in {{country_iso}} for free!CompareDiscount codes for Green Shield
| Green shield promo codes | Details |
|---|---|
| Default | Standard online discount for new sign-ups |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest promo codes, visit our comparison of the best dental insurance plans.
How Dental Insurance Claims Work with Green Shield
| Feature | Availability | Expert opinion (one clear sentence of 15–25 words) |
|---|---|---|
| Online claim submission | ✅ | You can submit claims digitally from anywhere, which eliminates paperwork and leads to faster processing times. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | The app provides on-the-go access to your coverage details, digital ID card, and claim submission tools. |
| Member portal for claim tracking | ✅ | This online tool lets you monitor the status of your claims in real-time, giving you full visibility. |
| Claim reimbursement simulator | ❌ | You cannot check your potential reimbursement before a procedure, which makes it harder to budget for dental expenses. |
| Reimbursement time frame | ~5 days | You can expect to receive your money for electronic claims within about five business days, supporting your cash flow. |
| Adding or removing members without fees | ✅ | You have the flexibility to update your family's coverage through the online portal as your needs change. |
| Telephone assistance with a healthcare professional | ❌ | Customer support is for administrative queries only, not for receiving direct medical advice from a healthcare professional. |
| Second medical opinion | ❌ | Your plan does not include a service to obtain a second expert opinion on a dental diagnosis or treatment. |
| 24/7 travel assistance | ✅ | This provides access to round-the-clock support for dental emergencies when you are travelling away from home. |
What do customers say about Green Shield dental insurance?
Here is a summary of the feedback from policyholders:
✅ The plan options are considered flexible, suiting various individual and family needs.
✅ An important benefit is that the plans provide coverage for pre-existing conditions.
✅ The online claims process is frequently praised for being simple and easy to navigate.
❌ Some customers report having claims denied for certain dental procedures.
❌ A recurring complaint relates to billing issues and what are perceived as hidden charges.
❌ The long wait times to reach customer service are a source of frustration for some members.
Here are examples of reviews left online:
- "GreenShield made it easy to transition from my group plan after retirement. The online portal is straightforward and claims are processed quickly.", Susan M., March 2025, PolicyAdvisor
- "Worst insurance company, hidden charges plus they double charged a month in advance because they knew you’re eventually going to cancel.", Anonymous, June 26, 2025, Trustpilot
How to Contact Green Shield
| Reason for contact | Contact Green Shield |
|---|---|
| For a dental insurance quote 🧾 | Call 1-888-711-1119, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, or request a quote online. |
| For proof of dental insurance 🧾 | Access your digital benefits card through the GreenShield+ member portal or mobile app. For assistance, call 1-888-711-1119. |
| For dental assistance 🩺 | For questions about your coverage, call the customer service centre at 1-888-711-1119, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. |
| To report a dental claim or track a reimbursement 🔍 | Submit and track claims via the GreenShield+ mobile app or online portal. For support, you can call 1-888-711-1119. |
FAQ
Who can apply for Green Shield dental insurance?
Any Canadian resident with a valid provincial health plan can apply for Green Shield dental insurance. You can submit your application directly on the official Green Shield website. However, it is always a good idea to assess different options before making a commitment. Comparing offers online can help you ensure you find the best coverage for your specific needs and budget.
Are there any age requirements with Green Shield?
To apply for a Green Shield dental insurance policy, you must be at least 18 years old. There does not appear to be an upper age limit for new applicants, which is beneficial for seniors or retirees seeking coverage. Children and other dependents can be included under family or couple plans, provided they meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the policy documents.
Can members be added or removed from Green Shield dental insurance?
Yes, you can add or remove eligible family members, such as a spouse or dependent children, from your Green Shield dental insurance plan. This is typically done following a significant life event, like a marriage, birth, or adoption. You can usually manage these changes through the online member portal or by contacting Green Shield's customer service for assistance.
Are pre-existing dental conditions covered by Green Shield?
Yes, Green Shield offers plans that cover pre-existing dental conditions, which is a significant advantage. Both their ZONE and LINK plan categories are designed to provide coverage without exclusions for conditions you may have had before applying. This makes their insurance an accessible option for individuals who might otherwise be denied coverage or face limitations with other insurers.
Is there a waiting period for major dental work like crowns or orthodontics?
Yes, for certain types of dental care, waiting periods do apply. While basic services like check-ups and fillings are often covered right away, more extensive treatments are not. Under most Green Shield plans, you must have continuous coverage for three years before you become eligible for reimbursement on major restorative work, such as crowns, and orthodontic services.
How soon does my coverage begin after I apply?
Once your application for Green Shield dental insurance is submitted and approved, your coverage does not start instantly. Typically, your benefits will become active on the first day of the month that follows your application's approval date. For example, if your application is approved anytime in May, your dental coverage will officially begin on June 1st.
Who can apply for Green Shield dental insurance?
Any Canadian resident with a valid provincial health plan can apply for Green Shield dental insurance. You can submit your application directly on the official Green Shield website. However, it is always a good idea to assess different options before making a commitment. Comparing offers online can help you ensure you find the best coverage for your specific needs and budget.
Are there any age requirements with Green Shield?
To apply for a Green Shield dental insurance policy, you must be at least 18 years old. There does not appear to be an upper age limit for new applicants, which is beneficial for seniors or retirees seeking coverage. Children and other dependents can be included under family or couple plans, provided they meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the policy documents.
Can members be added or removed from Green Shield dental insurance?
Yes, you can add or remove eligible family members, such as a spouse or dependent children, from your Green Shield dental insurance plan. This is typically done following a significant life event, like a marriage, birth, or adoption. You can usually manage these changes through the online member portal or by contacting Green Shield's customer service for assistance.
Are pre-existing dental conditions covered by Green Shield?
Yes, Green Shield offers plans that cover pre-existing dental conditions, which is a significant advantage. Both their ZONE and LINK plan categories are designed to provide coverage without exclusions for conditions you may have had before applying. This makes their insurance an accessible option for individuals who might otherwise be denied coverage or face limitations with other insurers.
Is there a waiting period for major dental work like crowns or orthodontics?
Yes, for certain types of dental care, waiting periods do apply. While basic services like check-ups and fillings are often covered right away, more extensive treatments are not. Under most Green Shield plans, you must have continuous coverage for three years before you become eligible for reimbursement on major restorative work, such as crowns, and orthodontic services.
How soon does my coverage begin after I apply?
Once your application for Green Shield dental insurance is submitted and approved, your coverage does not start instantly. Typically, your benefits will become active on the first day of the month that follows your application's approval date. For example, if your application is approved anytime in May, your dental coverage will officially begin on June 1st.
