Interim Federal Health Program in Burlington, ON
Interim Federal Health Program Near You
Starting fresh in a new country is an exciting journey, but it comes with many questions—especially about staying healthy. If you are a refugee claimant or a protected person living in our community, you have a safety net to keep your smile healthy.
At ToothVue Dental, we are proud to support newcomers through the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP). Think of this as a temporary bridge that protects your dental health while you wait for your provincial health coverage to begin. Because finding a reliable Interim Federal Health Program near you is a top priority for new families, we make it easy for you to get the care you need without the stress.
What Exactly is the IFHP?
The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) is a specialized initiative funded by the Canadian government. Its main goal is to ensure that newcomers—specifically refugee claimants and protected persons—aren’t left without medical support while they settle in. Since it takes time to qualify for a provincial health card (like OHIP), the IFHP acts as a vital bridge, providing you with temporary health and dental insurance so you can focus on your new life without worrying about unexpected medical costs.
To make the process as stress-free as possible, the program is designed for immediate use:
No Complex Paperwork
You are automatically covered once you are recognized as eligible by the government. There is no need to fill out separate, lengthy applications or wait weeks for a dedicated insurance card to arrive in the mail.
Your Documents Are Your ID
Your government papers work like your pass for healthcare. Just bring your Refugee Protection Claimant Document (RPCD) or your IFHP Certificate and show it at our front desk.
We Handle the Rest
Once you show us your document, our team at ToothVue Dental verifies your coverage instantly, and with the support of the Interim Federal Health Program in Burlington, ON, we make the process simple and stress-free.
What Does Your Coverage Include?
The program is designed to handle urgent and essential dental needs to ensure you remain pain-free while settling into your new life.
Basic Care
General visits to a family dentist and essential hospital treatments are covered. These services are free of charge for those who qualify.
Urgent Dental Care
This focuses on stopping pain and treating infections. Coverage includes:
Emergency Exams
To find the source of your pain.
X-rays
To see what is happening beneath the surface.
Fillings
To repair urgent damage or decay.
Extractions
Removing teeth that are too damaged to save.
Prescriptions
If our dentist prescribes medicine (like antibiotics or pain relievers), the program helps cover those costs at the pharmacy.
Dental Coverage & Cost Breakdown
Starting May 1, 2026, the government will share some of the costs with you. This means some services are still free, but for others, you may need to pay a small amount during your visit.
| Service Type | What is Covered? | Your Cost (Co-payment) |
| Emergency Exams | 1 exam every 6 months per office | 30% of the cost |
| Dental X-rays | Necessary images for pain | 30% of the cost |
| Urgent Fillings | Repairing pain or infection | 30% of the cost |
| Extractions | Pulling damaged teeth | 30% of the cost |
| Prescriptions | Medications for dental issues | $4 per prescription |
| Basic Medical | General dental consultations | $0 (Free) |
Note: You can receive up to approximately $2,000 per year in fillings for pain relief without needing special government permission first.
What is Not Covered?
Because the IFHP is meant for emergencies, it does not cover “extra” or routine services. These include:
Preventive Care
Standard cleanings, polishing, or fluoride.
Cosmetics
Whitening, veneers, or look-improving treatments.
Major Work
Braces, root canals, bridges, and dental implants.
Non-Urgent Care
Fixing tiny cavities that don’t hurt or show up on X-rays.
Care That Puts You First
We go beyond basic care to make sure every patient feels comfortable and supported. Here is why our neighbours choose us:
We Accept CDCP
In addition to the IFHP, we are fully registered providers for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), ensuring more Canadians have access to affordable oral health.
Flexible Payment Plans
We know budgets can be tight. For procedures not fully covered by the government, we offer monthly payment plans to fit your lifestyle.
Direct Insurance Billing
We handle the paperwork! We bill the government or your insurance provider directly, so you aren’t stuck waiting for a check in the mail.
Evening Appointments
You’re busy building a new life. We offer evening hours Monday through Friday so you don’t have to miss work or school for an appointment.
Your Healthy Smile Starts Here—Let’s Build It Together!
Don’t let dental pain hold you back from enjoying your new chapter in Canada, and with support from the Interim Federal Health Program in Burlington, ON, our friendly team at ToothVue Dental is ready to help you maximize your IFHP benefits in a stress-free environment.
Book your appointment today to speak with our care coordinators. We can’t wait to welcome you to the ToothVue Dental family!
FAQs
How long can I use the IFHP?
Your coverage lasts until you become a permanent resident or qualify for provincial health insurance, and many patients asking about the Interim Federal Health Program near you often have similar questions about timelines. If a refugee claim is not approved, coverage usually ends shortly after that decision.
Do I pay the clinic directly?
Yes. For any service with a co-payment (like an extraction or filling), you pay your 30% portion at our office during your visit. We bill the government for the other 70%.
Can I use IFHP if I have a job with dental benefits?
No. The IFHP is a “last resort” program. If you have any private insurance through work or a spouse, you must use that insurance first.
What if my dental problem isn't an emergency, but I still need help?
If you need care that the IFHP doesn’t cover, don’t worry. At ToothVue Dental, we offer flexible payment plans that let you pay for your treatment in small, manageable steps over time.