Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP)

The Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program is provincially funded and delivered locally by Public Health Units to provide free, essential dental care to eligible low-income seniors (ages 65+). In 2025, WECHU Oral Health facilitated 4,987 OSDCP visits, including 365 emergency exams and 222 initial assessments. Denture services including repairs, relines, and new dentures, were provided in 1,153 appointments, resulting in the delivery of 157 new dentures to 103 clients. Transportation and translation supports were available to reduce barriers to care. In 2025, construction began at the Windsor office to expand clinic capacity and offer a 4th operatory, for a total of 6 operatories across WECHU properties.

Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO)

Healthy Smiles Ontario is provincially funded and delivered by Public Health Units, in partnership with participating private dental practices, to provide free dental care to eligible children and youth (17 years of age and under). In 2025, WECHU dental clinics facilitated 2,418 appointments, including 1,053 onsite screenings; 420 children screened in WECHU clinics were identified with urgent oral health needs. In addition, WECHU Registered Dental Hygienists and Dental Assistants also conduct screenings in all area elementary schools. During the 2024–2025 school year, oral health screening activities reached 13,405 students, with 1,280 referred for urgent treatment. Staff supported priority groups through outreach, school readiness events, and oral health education at EarlyON Centres. With the introduction of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), staff supported families with eligibility, enrollment, coverage questions, and coordination with HSO and OSDCP to support timely treatment.