Ontario residents may not realize that they may be covered for some emergency dental services under the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). Here is a chance to find out what ODSP covers for emergency dental services in Ontario.
What is the ODSP
The ODSP is a program managed by the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services. It provides several services to eligible disabled people. Benefits include monthly payments that cover basic needs for living like housing, clothing, and food. It also includes some medical and dental benefits along with employment support.
Who Qualifies?
There are five qualifiers for this program. The first is that it is for Ontario residents only so you must live permanently in Ontario. It is only for adults so you must be over 18 years old. The third and fourth qualifying factors related to money.
Those applying must be in financial need and have assets that are valued at less than $40,000 for a single person, $500 for each non-spouse dependent, and $50,000 for a family.
The final and crucial qualifying factor is that the person must be disabled. The Ontario Disability Support Program Action defines a disabled person if they a healthcare professional confirms the following:
A physical, mental, or a combination of a substantial impairment that will last more than a year.
Having a documented impairment that severely limits the person’s ability to work, be involved in the community, or take care of themselves. You will need to provide a verification form from a medical provider to prove this. The program has a list of specific disabilities that qualify for the program.
Dental Treatments
While every dental treatment doesn’t qualify for ODSP coverage, many are paid for through the program. One of the ODSP pays for is the emergency dental care.
Emergency dental care is covered under the ODSP if it occurs because of infections or pain. These are times when you can’t wait until you can get a dental appointment because of the extent of the dental issue.
This would include mouth trauma caused by an accident as well as pain and swelling caused by an infection.
The ODSP would cover the treatments associated with emergency dental care including X-rays, oral surgery, and anesthesia since those services are also covered under standard dental care.
What Else Does ODSP Cover?
The ODSP covers many dental services that are considered essential to daily life. These include routine dental check-ups and cleanings, cavity fillings, tooth extractions, root canals and gum disease treatment.
Other Related Medical Benefits
The program covers many other essential medical benefits that may play a role in recovering from an emergency dental visit. It covers prescription medications, which is important because the emergency dentist will likely issue a prescription to combat infection and pain. It also covers medical supplies and medical transportation, which may be needed for an emergency dental visit. It also has an allowance for a special diet that may be required after an emergency visit or as a part of everyday life.
Other extended health benefits include vision care, hearing aids and devices, guide dog costs, mobility device batteries, and pregnancy and breastfeeding nutrition.
Gather Documents
One aspect of qualifying for the ODSP is paperwork. Every qualifying factor must be documented and verified. You will need to talk to your doctors and validate your assets for yourself and your household.
Those needing more information and forms about the ODSP can go here.
The ODSP program is a resource that will cover most, if not all, the cost of an emergency dental visit. Those who think they may be eligible should take an in-depth look at it to see if they qualify.
