Insurance That Covers Braces in Canada: 2025 Cost Guide, Eligibility & Best Plans

Sarah Delorme
Market Insights
August 5, 2025
12 min read

This Blog Answers These Questions:

  • What insurance covers braces in Canada?

  • Is there insurance that covers braces for adults in Canada?

  • How much do braces cost in Canada with insurance?

  • Can I use a Health Spending Account (HSA) for braces?

  • What if my plan doesn’t cover braces?

  • Do student plans include braces coverage?

  • How do I check if my insurance covers braces?

  • Are Invisalign aligners covered by insurance in Canada?

  • Can renters access insurance with braces coverage?

  • What’s the lifetime maximum for braces in Canada?

Getting insurance that covers braces in Canada can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs — especially in 2025, when orthodontic treatments are on the rise. According to the Canadian Association of Orthodontists, over 300,000 Canadians start orthodontic treatments each year, with average costs for braces ranging between $3,000 and $10,000. While many private insurance plans cover general dental procedures, coverage for orthodontics like braces is often limited or misunderstood. This guide breaks down which insurance covers braces in Canada, who qualifies, how much you can expect to pay, and what smart digital tools like GoKlaim can do to simplify claims and policy tracking.

Why Braces Coverage Is Harder to Find

Not all dental insurance plans automatically include orthodontics. Here’s why:

  • Orthodontic treatments are often categorized as elective or cosmetic.

  • Many group plans or basic dental plans do not cover braces for adults.

  • There’s typically a lifetime maximum (often $1,000–$3,000), not annual.

  • Some insurers require pre-approval before treatment starts.

This makes it essential to check policy wording carefully and look for insurers or digital benefits platforms that offer transparency and flexibility.

Insurance Plans That Cover Braces in Canada

Here’s a breakdown of insurance options where braces may be covered:

Group Benefits Through Employers

  • Canada Life, Sun Life, Manulife, and Green Shield Canada offer orthodontic coverage in group dental plans.

  • Coverage is usually 50% of treatment costs, with lifetime limits.

  • Ideal for children and dependents, though some cover adult orthodontics.

Individual Dental Plans

  • Blue Cross and Desjardins offer individual dental insurance with optional orthodontic add-ons.

  • Expect a waiting period of 12–24 months before benefits apply.

Digital Platforms Like GoKlaim.com

Student Insurance Plans

  • University plans through StudentCare or Green Shield Student Plans may include limited braces coverage.

  • Often limited to $1,000–$2,000 per policy period.

Typical Costs for Braces in Canada (2025)

Type of Braces                         Average Cost (CAD)

Traditional Metal                       $3,000–$7,000

Ceramic                                      $4,000–$8,000

Invisalign (Aligners)                  $4,000–$9,000

Lingual Braces                          $8,000–$10,000+

Even with insurance that covers braces in Canada, out-of-pocket costs can remain high without proper claim management.

Tips to Maximize Your Braces Insurance Coverage

Use GoKlaim.com to pre-check claim eligibility before starting treatment.
✔ Ask your dentist or orthodontist for a predetermination form to submit to your insurer.
✔ Make sure your policy includes orthodontic benefits (not just general dental).
✔ If you’re part of a flexible benefits program, consider allocating more funds to your HSA for orthodontic expenses.
✔ Check if your employer allows top-up plans or reimbursement options for adult braces.

Alternatives If Your Insurance Doesn’t Cover Braces

If you don’t have coverage for braces:

  • Consider using a Health Spending Account (HSA) for eligible orthodontic expenses.

  • Explore Invisalign financing or monthly payment plans through your clinic.

  • Join your spouse’s or parent’s group benefits if eligible.

  • Ask your provider if they accept claim automation through GoKlaim.com, which can ease the reimbursement process.

Who’s Eligible for Braces Coverage?

  • Children under 18 are the most commonly covered.

  • Some plans extend to students under 25 if enrolled full-time.

  • Adult orthodontic coverage exists but is rare — mostly in extended or premium plans.

  • You must be an active plan member (or dependent) at the time of treatment.

How GoKlaim.com Can Help Renters & Families

GoKlaim.com is especially valuable for families renting in Canada who juggle multiple expenses. With easy digital access to benefit details, claim statuses, and document uploads, renters can:

  • Submit orthodontic claims quickly

  • Track deductible limits and remaining balances

  • Avoid paperwork errors that could lead to denied claims

For example, if you’re using a Canada Life or Manulife group plan, GoKlaim automates the claim routing based on your provider. It’s a game-changer for renters and students who want real-time visibility without long phone calls or confusing PDF forms.

Final Thoughts

Getting insurance that covers braces in Canada doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By choosing flexible benefit plans, maximizing HSA or WSA options, and using digital tools like GoKlaim.com, Canadians can make informed, cost-effective decisions. Whether you’re a parent budgeting for your child’s smile or an adult exploring Invisalign, aligning your coverage with your treatment plan makes a big difference in 2025.

Explore your plan — and if in doubt, GoKlaim it.

Book a Demo with GoKlaim Today

Frequently Asked Questions

What insurance covers braces in Canada?

Most braces coverage comes through group insurance plans like Canada Life, Sun Life, and Manulife. Individual dental plans may include orthodontics, but usually with a waiting period.

Is there insurance that covers braces for adults in Canada?

Yes, but it’s rare. Some employer-sponsored extended health plans cover adult orthodontics with a lifetime limit.

How much do braces cost in Canada with insurance?

If your plan covers 50% of the cost and your total is $7,000, you’ll pay around $3,500 out of pocket, depending on your plan's lifetime max.

Can I use a Health Spending Account (HSA) for braces?

Absolutely. Braces are eligible under CRA-approved medical expenses, so HSA funds can be used.

What if my plan doesn’t cover braces?

Use GoKlaim.com to check HSA/WSP eligibility or consider financing plans at your orthodontist’s clinic.

Do student plans include braces coverage?

Yes, though often limited. Many student health plans include up to $1,000–$2,000 in orthodontic benefits.

How do I check if my insurance covers braces?

Use your insurer’s member portal or sign into GoKlaim.com for a simplified benefit summary.

Are Invisalign aligners covered by insurance in Canada?

Yes, if your plan includes orthodontics. Invisalign is typically reimbursed similarly to traditional braces.

Can renters access insurance with braces coverage?

Yes — through group benefits, digital platforms, or flexible plans offered via employers.

What’s the lifetime maximum for braces in Canada?

Usually between $1,000 and $3,000 depending on the insurance provider.