What is the best student dental insurance 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
Whether you're a Canadian citizen or an international student, securing the right dental coverage is crucial for your peace of mind and maintaining excellent oral health. But how do you choose a policy that's right for you?
The best student dental insurance for you depends on your unique needs and budget, and we're here to help you explore some of the most reputable and highly regarded options, including GSC, York University, Manulife, and Blue Cross.
Join us as we take a thorough look at their coverage options and rates so you can have a better idea. You can also use our comparator to compare the best health and dental insurance plans in Canada and choose a plan that truly suits you the best.
Best Student Dental Insurance Canada Plans
- Green Shield Canada: Variety of options to suit your needs.
- York University: Plans for full-time and part-time undergraduates.
- Manulife Financial: Affordable options with comprehensive coverage.
- Blue Cross: For students of all ages.
What does student dental insurance cover in Canada?
Dental care can be expensive, even in Canada. That's why it's important for students to have dental insurance.
Most provinces and territories in Canada do not offer public dental coverage, leaving students to fend for themselves when it comes to oral health. However, there are exceptions. Students in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario enjoy public dental coverage.
The good news is that many post-secondary institutions across the country offer student dental insurance plans. These plans are typically provided through private insurance companies and are available to all students, regardless of their province or territory of residence.
But what exactly does student dental insurance cover in Canada? Such plans typically cover a variety of dental services, including:
- Preventive care: checkups, cleanings and x-rays
- Basic dental care: fillings, root canals, and extractions
- Major dental care: crowns, bridges, and implants
Before buying a dental insurance policy, make sure to shop around and compare their rates and coverage. You can use our comparator to get free health and dental insurance quotes from leading companies in Canada.
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What is the cost of student dental insurance in Canada?
The cost of dental insurance for students in Canada varies depending on the plan you choose, the province you live in, and your age. However, most student dental insurance plans are very affordable, ranging in price from $20 to $50 per month.
Here is an estimate of the monthly rates for some of the most popular dental insurance plans for students in Canada:
| Plan | Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| Green Shield Canada | $25-$40 |
| York University | $25-$35 |
| Manulife Student Dental Plan | $30-$45 |
| Blue Cross | $35-$50 |
To get personalized quotes from leading Canadian companies, you can use our free comparator — enter your basic details and get dental insurance quotes in minutes.
What is international student dental insurance?
International student dental insurance is a type of dental insurance that is designed specifically for international students.
It typically covers a variety of dental services, including preventive care, basic dental care, and major dental care. Some plans also cover orthodontic services and prescription drug coverage.
- International dental insurance for students is important because dental care can be expensive, especially in Canada.
- International students who do not have dental insurance may have to pay out of pocket for all of their dental care, which can be a financial burden.
International dental insurance plans for college students are typically offered by private insurance companies. There are a variety of different plans available, such as GSC, Blue Cross, Manulife, and more.
When choosing an international student dental insurance plan, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Coverage: Make sure the plan covers the dental services that you need.
- Cost: Choose a plan that fits your budget.
- Deductibles and copays: Be aware of the deductibles and copays that you will have to pay before your insurance coverage kicks in.
- Network of dentists: Choose a plan that has a network of dentists in your area.
Do universities offer student dental insurance in Canada?
Yes, many universities and colleges offer dental plans that are affordable and offer good coverage for students. Here are some of them:
- McMaster Student Dental Insurance Plan: Available to all full-time undergraduate and graduate students at McMaster University.
- Carleton University Student Dental Insurance Plan: Available to all full-time undergraduate and graduate students at Carleton University.
- Reyson Student Dental Insurance Plan: Available to all full-time and part-time students enrolled in a post-secondary institution in Canada.
Other options include the Concordia Student Dental Insurance Plan, Humber Student Dental Insurance Plan, and Seneca Student Dental Insurance Plan.
<strong>What is Student Dental Insurance Ontario</strong>?
These plans are offered by the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) and are available to all full-time students enrolled in a post-secondary institution in Ontario. They cover preventive care, basic dental care, and major dental care.
To learn more about each plan and to enroll, you can visit the website of the university/college or the insurance company that offers the plan. For instance, York University’s dental insurance is offered by GSC.
And if you want to get personalized dental insurance quotes from various providers to compare their cost and coverage, you can use our comparator below. It's free to use and gives results in no time.
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Best student dental insurance in Canada 2025
The best options for student dental insurance in Canada vary depending on your individual needs and budget. However, some of the most popular and highly rated options include the following:
GreenShield Canada student dental insurance
GreenShield Canada offers a variety of student dental insurance plans, depending on your needs and budget. All plans cover preventive care (checkups, cleanings, and x-rays), and most plans also cover basic dental care (fillings, root canals, and extractions). Some plans also cover major dental care (crowns, bridges, and implants).
Here are some of the specific coverage highlights of Green Shield Canada's dental insurance plans for students:
- Preventive care: All plans cover 100% of preventive care costs, including checkups, cleanings, and x-rays.
- Basic dental care: Most plans cover 100% of basic dental care costs, including fillings, root canals, and extractions. Some plans have a deductible or copay.
- Major dental care: Some plans cover major dental care costs, such as crowns, bridges, and implants. However, there is typically a deductible and copay for major dental care services.
- Orthodontic services: Some plans cover orthodontic services, such as braces and Invisalign. There is typically a deductible and copay for orthodontic services as well.
York University student dental insurance
York University students have access to two dental insurance plans:
- York University Student Dental Insurance Plan: This plan is automatically included in tuition fees for all undergraduate students, regardless of their province or territory of residence. The plan covers a variety of dental services, including preventive care, basic dental care, and major dental care.
- YFS Health and Dental Plan: This plan is offered by the York Federation of Students (YFS) and is available to all undergraduate students, regardless of their year of study or program of study. The plan offers more comprehensive coverage than the first plan, including orthodontic services and prescription drug coverage.
The York University Student Dental Insurance Plan covers the following dental services:
- Preventive care: checkups, cleanings and x-rays
- Basic dental care: fillings, root canals, and extractions
- Major dental care: crowns, bridges, and implants
- The plan also covers emergency dental care, but there is a $250 deductible.
Read our comprehensive review of York University’s dental insurance to know more.
Before deciding on a plan, don't forget to compare the options available. You can use our comparator below to compare the best Canadian health and dental insurance plans and get personalized quotes in no time.
Compare The Best Health Insurance Plans in Seconds
Manulife student dental insurance
Just like GSC, Manulife student dental insurance plans in Canada offer a variety of coverage options, depending on your needs and budget. The specific coverage for each dental procedure may vary depending on your plan, but all plans cover:
| Category | Services |
|---|---|
| Preventive Care | Checkups, Cleanings, X-rays |
| Basic Dental Care | Fillings, Root canals, Extractions, Scaling and root planing |
| Major Dental Care | Crowns, Bridges, Implants |
| Orthodontic Services | Braces, Invisalign |
There are two types of standalone dental plans from Manulife: DentalPlus Basic and DentalPlus Enhanced with different levels of coverage:
- DentalPlus Basic is the more affordable plan and it covers preventive care, such as checkups, cleanings, and x-rays, as well as basic dental care, such as fillings, root canals, and extractions.
- DentalPlus Enhanced is a more comprehensive plan, and it covers everything that DentalPlus Basic does, plus major dental care, such as crowns, bridges, and implants, and orthodontic services, such as braces and Invisalign.
To know more about their coverage and other services like accidental dental, go to our Manulife health and dental insurance review.
Blue Cross student dental insurance
Blue Cross student dental insurance covers a variety of dental services, including:
- Preventive care: checkups, cleanings and x-rays
- Basic dental care: fillings, root canals, and extractions
- Major dental care: crowns, bridges, and implants
- Orthodontic services (some plans)
Blue Cross dental plans are available to students of all ages and levels of education, including undergraduate students, graduate students, and professional students.
To be eligible for Blue Cross dental plans, you must be enrolled in a full-time accredited educational institution.
Good to know
Blue Cross dental plans for students are typically very affordable and many schools offer student discounts.
