The Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision program covers basic dental and vision care for children in low-income families in New Brunswick.
The dental portion of the Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision program covers basic dental services, such as routine exams, X-rays and extractions, with some focus on preventive treatments such as sealants and fluoride treatments.
There is no cost associated with treatment under the plan, provided the procedure does not exceed the $1,000 annual limit for dental coverage.
To be eligible for the Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision Program, families must:
- Live in New Brunswick
- Have a dependent child or children aged 18 or younger
- Not have dental and vision coverage through any other government program or private insurance plan
- Have a family net income level not exceeding amounts laid out in the program guidelines correlated to household size. Net income is determined based on the previous year’s New Brunswick Income Tax return(s) or Notice of Assessment(s)
To apply for the New Brunswick Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision Program, the individual should download or pick up an application form and mail or fax the completed form, along with any necessary documents, to the address or fax number listed on the form.
After the application is submitted, it will be assessed to determine if the child or children qualify. It usually takes two to four weeks for an application to be processed.
Applicants will be notified by mail once a decision has been made. If a child is eligible for coverage, a Medavie Blue Cross card will be issued in their name. Parents must present the card to the dentist at every appointment.
For children with dental coverage through the Department of Social Development, coverage will be automatically transferred to the Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision plan. As a result, there is no need for Social Development clients to apply.
Key New Brunswick Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision Program Details
Families must reapply to the Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision program every year. The renewal application must be submitted by September 1st, along with the previous year’s New Brunswick Income Tax return or Notice of Assessment, unless receiving Social Assistance from the Department of Social Development.
Services are provided by members of the New Brunswick Dental Society. Patients should ensure that the dentist provides services under the Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision plan before receiving services. Patients can also contact Medavie Blue Cross for more information.
FAQs
What happens if my child’s eligibility for the Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision program changes after the application has been submitted?
If your situation changes during the year, then you should submit a new application form and indicate that it is a change request at the top of the form.
What should I do if I miss the September 1st deadline for reapplying to the program?
Benefits for your child will end once the September 1 deadline has passed, and will only pick up again once you have reapplied and been approved. To reapply, submit an application form, clearly stating that it is a renewal at the top of the form. The program is not responsible for any costs incurred between the deadline and re-enrollment.
How do I access services under the Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision plan?
When you make your child’s appointment, you should confirm that the dental provider offers services under the program. Once you arrive for the appointment, you will need to inform the staff that your child is covered under the program and show them their Medavie Blue Cross card.
References
- New Brunswick, Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision Frequently Asked Questions
- Social Support New Brunswick, Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision
- New Brunswick, Social Development
- Canadian Dental Association, Bridging the Gap
*The content provided in this article, including text, graphics, and referenced material, is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your dentist or another qualified oral health professional for questions regarding your dental condition. Never disregard professional dental advice or delay seeking it based on information from this article. If you believe you have a dental emergency, contact your dentist, or seek immediate assistance from an oral healthcare professional.