Starting dental care in a new city can feel confusing, especially when you are still figuring out your insurance and expenses, or available healthcare options. Finding a dentist in Toronto is only one part of the process. You may also be wondering if your dental care is covered through the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), private or student dental insurance, or the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP).
In this guide to dental care for newcomers in Toronto, you’ll learn how these options work and what to consider when finding a dentist and paying for your care.
Dental Coverage Options for Newcomers in Toronto
When you’re new to Toronto, understanding how you’ll pay for dental care can be just as important as finding a dentist. Your options may depend on your immigration status, income, employment, school, and whether you already have dental insurance.
Some newcomers may qualify for a public dental program such as the CDCP, while others may have coverage through an employer, school, or private insurance plan. Understanding your coverage before booking an appointment can help you know what to expect from your dental costs.
Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)
If you’ve recently moved to Canada, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) may help you pay for dental care. However, being a newcomer does not automatically make you eligible.
Based on CDCP eligibility requirements, you may qualify if you:
- Have no access to private dental insurance or dental coverage.
- Have filed your tax return in Canada for the previous year.
- Have an adjusted family net income of less than $90,000.
- Are a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
What does the CDCP pay for?
The CDCP can help cover eligible dental services, but it does not always mean your dental care is completely free. Depending on your family income and the cost of your treatment, you may have:
- A co-payment toward your dental care.
- Additional costs if your dentist charges more than the amount covered by the CDCP.
- Costs for services that are not covered by the plan.
Before starting treatment, ask your dentist what the CDCP covers and what you may need to pay yourself. For the most up-to-date information about covered services and patient costs, check our CDCP full guide.
At Downtown Toronto Dentistry, we accept patients with CDCP benefits and are currently accepting new dental patients.
Private, Employer, and Student Dental Insurance
If you’re not covered by the CDCP, you may have dental insurance through your employer, a family member, your school, or a private insurance plan. Checking your coverage before booking an appointment can help you understand which services are covered and what you may need to pay.
1. Employer Dental Benefits
Some employers include dental coverage as part of their benefits package. If you’ve recently started a job in Toronto, check your benefits or ask your employer about your dental coverage. You may also have coverage through a spouse or family member’s employer plan.
2. Private Dental Insurance
If you don’t have dental benefits through work or school, you may have a private dental insurance plan. Check your policy to see what is covered and how much you may need to pay. At Downtown Toronto Dentistry, we offer direct billing with most insurance plans.
3. Student Dental Insurance
If you’re studying in Toronto, your school may provide dental coverage through a student plan. Downtown Toronto Dentistry provides student dental care for students at:
If you have student insurance, check your plan before your appointment and bring your student ID or insurance information so the dental office can help you understand your coverage.
Important Note: If you have access to dental coverage through a student organization or another private plan, do not assume you can also apply for the CDCP because your existing coverage is limited. Under the current CDCP rules, having access to private dental insurance or coverage generally makes you ineligible.
Dental Care for Refugees and Asylum Claimants
If you’re a refugee or asylum claimant in Canada, you may be eligible for dental care through the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP). IFHP dental coverage is different from the CDCP and private dental insurance, and generally focuses on eligible urgent dental care.
Since May 1, 2026, eligible supplemental services, including urgent dental care, generally require a 30% co-payment, with IFHP covering the remaining 70%. Some treatments may also require pre-authorization. (canada.ca)
To use your IFHP coverage, you’ll need to visit a provider registered with IFHP and bring documentation confirming your eligibility.
At Downtown Toronto Dentistry, we provide dental care for eligible IFHP patients. For eligibility, covered services, required documents, and appointment information, read our Refugee Dental Care guide.
Let’s Make Your First Dental Visit Easier in Toronto
Not sure where to start with dental care, insurance, CDCP, or IFHP? At Downtown Toronto Dentistry, we’re accepting new patients and offer direct billing with most insurers, along with general, pediatric, cleaning, and emergency dental care for all ages and families are new to Toronto.
Book Your Consultation or Appointment Today.
Dental Care For Newcomers in Toronto at Different Ages
Your dental needs can change with age, and moving to a new country can make it harder to know where to start. A first dental visit can help identify any existing problems and show you what care may be useful for you or your family.
Children and Teenagers
For children and teenagers, regular dental checkups and preventive care can help identify cavities and other problems early. Depending on their needs, care may include:
- Dental cleaning
- Fluoride treatment
- Cavity treatment
- An assessment of orthodontic concerns
Since children’s teeth and jaws are still developing, pediatric dentistry is especially important. We provide pediatric dental care for children and teenagers at Downtown Toronto Dentistry.
Adults
As an adult newcomer, you may need a dental examination and cleaning, or treatment for cavities, gum problems (gum grafting), or other existing dental concerns. If you arrive with severe tooth pain, swelling, a broken tooth, or another urgent problem, emergency dental care may be the right place to start.
Read more: Common Dental Emergencies: What You Need to Know
Seniors
Seniors may need regular checkups and cleanings, along with care for gum problems, missing teeth, or dentures. Your dentist can assess your current oral health and recommend the care that fits your needs.
Learn more: 4 Benefits of Dental Checkups: Why Regular Visits Are Essential for Your Health
Finding a Dentist in Toronto as a Newcomer
If you’re new to Toronto, you may not know where to start looking for a dentist. You can start by searching online for dental clinics near you, asking friends, coworkers, or classmates, and comparing a few options before making an appointment.
For comparing clinics, consider:
- Location: Look for a clinic that is easy for you to reach by public transit, car, or walking.
- Reviews and reputation: Read recent patient reviews and check the dentist’s credentials and experience.
- Services: Make sure the clinic provides the type of care you or your family may need.
- Insurance and coverage: Check if they accept your insurance or public program, such as the CDCP or IFHP.
- Costs and direct billing: Ask about direct billing and what you may need to pay yourself.
- Appointments: Check how soon you can get an appointment and whether the clinic can see your family members if needed.
Dental Care for Newcomers at Downtown Toronto Dentistry
If you’re looking for dental care for newcomers in Toronto, Downtown Toronto Dentistry is currently accepting new patients with CDCP benefits and provides dental care for eligible patients covered by IFHP. We also offer direct billing with most insurers, including student and private dental plans.
We offer a wide range of dental services, including checkups, dental cleaning, general and restorative dental care, pediatric care, and same-day emergency care. Our clinic is located at 438 Adelaide St E, near St. Lawrence Market.
We have two primary dentists, Dr. Reza Barimani and Dr. Maral Aminaei. Both are licensed dental professionals in Ontario with the required professional credentials, including RCDSO registration, and together they provide a broad range of general and specialized dental care for adults and children.
Feel free to visit us or contact us at (647) 800-0331 to talk about your needs, ask about your coverage, check the available appointments, and what to bring to your first visit.
FAQ
How can I find a dentist in Toronto who accepts the CDCP?
Use the CDCP Provider Search Tool or contact clinics directly. Confirm they accept CDCP and bill Sun Life directly before booking.
Can I get dental care in Toronto if I don’t have insurance?
Yes. You can pay privately or check whether you qualify for public programs such as the CDCP or other government-supported dental programs.
Does OHIP cover dental care for newcomers?
OHIP, Ontario’s public health insurance plan, generally does not cover dental services provided in a dentist’s office. Some dental surgeries in hospitals may be covered.
Is CDCP dental care completely free?
Not necessarily. Depending on your income and treatment, you may have a co-payment or additional costs not covered by the CDCP.
What should I ask a dentist before booking my first appointment?
Ask about available appointments, accepted insurance or programs, direct billing, expected costs, and what documents you should bring.
What should I bring to my first dental appointment?
Bring your insurance or program information, identification, relevant dental records or X-rays, and any documents required to confirm your coverage.
New to Toronto? Share your dental care experience, questions, or concerns in the comments. Your experience may help other newcomers too.
