Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO)- information & FAQ about HSO forms
Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) is a free dental program for eligible children and youth 17 and under. It covers regular check-ups, preventive care, and treatment. Good oral health is important to the overall health of children and youth. Children should start seeing a dentist when they are 12 months old and continue going regularly.
Why should I participate?
The HSO program allows an opportunity to address health inequities within the Health Unit District. Since January 2023 the Health Unit alone has enrolled over 120 children and youth into the EESS stream of HSO. This does not include those enrolled by their dental provider or those enrolled in the Core stream.
How do I participate?
You participate by providing dental care services to children enrolled in HSO-Core or HSO-EESS streams. Any dental provider who wishes to participate does not need to enroll or register. It is assumed that the provider accepted the terms and conditions in the service schedule once they submit a claim for services under HSO. The terms and conditions can be found here.
If you choose, you can also participate by enrolling children in the Emergency and Essential Services (EESS) stream of HSO and then providing care once they are approved. The HSO-EESS Application form.
Alternatively, you can refer clients to the HKPR District Health Unit for help to access the EESS stream – in non-emergency situations and/or during regular business hours.
Healthy Smiles Ontario Schedule of Dental Services and Fees for Dentist Providers (gov.on.ca)
Claims may be submitted by mail, by secure fax or electronically to Accerta. The schedule of fees can be found here:
Healthy Smiles Ontario Schedule of Dental Services and Fees for Dentist Providers (gov.on.ca)
Physicians and Nurse Practitioners
Oral Health can play a significant role in a person’s overall health. You can promote good oral health as part of growth and development check-ups. All children should see a dental professional by their first birthday. You can also inform families of financial assistance programs such as the Healthy Smiles Ontario Program. If you feel that your patient could benefit from Health Unit programs or if you have any questions, please contact the Oral Health Department at 1-866-888-4577 ext. 1247.
Community Partners
Call us anytime to discuss programs and services for your clients. Many families would benefit from gaining access to Healthy Smiles Ontario to help get their children to the Dentist. We also have resources for you to hand out to clients so they can call and get more information directly from the Oral Health Department.
IPAC Considerations
