In 2025, many Canadians are seeking better private health insurance plans to supplement or enhance the government-funded healthcare system. While Canada’s public system covers most essential medical services, it does not fully cover dental, vision, prescription drugs, or physiotherapy—leaving many to look at private plans for additional protection. Whether you’re self-employed, retiring early, or just want more comprehensive benefits, choosing the right plan matters.
So, which private health insurance plans in Canada offer the best dental and vision coverage in 2025? We’ve done the comparison to help you make an informed choice.
Why Canadians Need Private Health Insurance in 2025
While provincial health care covers major surgeries, diagnostics, and hospital stays, there are growing gaps in the system that private insurance can fill. These include:
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Dental check-ups, cleanings, fillings, crowns, and orthodontics
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Vision tests, prescription lenses, contact lenses, and eye surgery
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Mental health services such as psychologists and counselling
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Physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and massage therapy
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Extended drug coverage beyond the provincial plan
With healthcare costs rising and demand increasing, many Canadians are turning to private plans for flexibility and broader access.
How We Ranked the Best Plans in 2025
Our ranking considers:
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Dental and vision benefits included
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Annual and per-visit coverage limits
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Monthly premiums
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Customer reviews and satisfaction
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Provider networks and digital access
We selected the top 5 plans that offer the most value for Canadians seeking dental and vision coverage, along with reasonable pricing and strong claim support.
1. Manulife Flexcare ComboPlus Enhanced
Monthly premium: Starting at $145/month (individual)
Dental coverage:
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100% for exams, cleanings, and fillings
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Up to $1,500 per year, including orthodontics
Vision coverage:
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$250 every 2 years for glasses/contact lenses
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Eye exams covered up to $80 every 2 years
Why it stands out: One of the most comprehensive plans, perfect for families or individuals with higher healthcare needs. Dental and vision limits are generous, and the plan includes prescription drugs and paramedical coverage too.
2. Sun Life Health Choice Enhanced
Monthly premium: Approx. $135/month
Dental coverage:
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80% for preventive care
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Up to $1,000/year, includes scaling, polishing, and x-rays
Vision coverage:
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$200 every 2 years
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Covers exams and glasses/lenses
Why it stands out: A solid all-around plan with extensive dental and vision options and great flexibility for self-employed Canadians. Sun Life also has a highly rated mobile app for fast claims.
3. Blue Cross Blue Vision and Dental Package
Monthly premium: Starting at $120/month
Dental coverage:
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70-90% of basic and major procedures
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Annual maximum: $1,200
Vision coverage:
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$250 every 2 years
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Eye exam included every 24 months
Why it stands out: Blue Cross is a trusted name, and their bundled dental and vision plan offers great reliability and customization for different provinces. Coverage is portable across Canada.
4. Green Shield Canada Link + Basic Dental & Vision
Monthly premium: Starts at $110/month
Dental coverage:
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Covers exams, fillings, and basic care up to $800/year
Vision coverage:
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$150 every 2 years for glasses or contacts
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Eye exam coverage included
Why it stands out: Green Shield offers good coverage with no medical underwriting for some plans if applied for within 60 days of losing group benefits. Affordable and flexible.
5. Canada Life Freedom to Choose – Combo Plan
Monthly premium: Around $130/month
Dental coverage:
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Basic preventive and restorative work up to $1,000/year
Vision coverage:
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$200 every 2 years
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Includes exam, lenses, and frames
Why it stands out: Known for customer service and quick reimbursement times. Ideal for retirees and freelancers wanting consistent dental and vision care.
What to Look For in a Private Health Plan in 2025
Choosing the right insurance plan means thinking about your own medical needs and comparing:
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Coverage limits: Annual caps for dental and vision services
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Waiting periods: Some dental coverage has a 3–6 month wait
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Out-of-pocket costs: Co-payments and what’s excluded
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Provider networks: Whether your dentist or optometrist is included
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Ease of claims: Mobile app support, online tracking, reimbursement speed
Plans with higher monthly premiums usually offer better coverage with fewer exclusions, but budget options can still be valuable if you only need basic services.
FAQs
Do I really need private health insurance in Canada in 2025?
Yes, if you want coverage for dental, vision, or prescription drugs not included in your provincial plan, private health insurance is essential—especially if you’re not part of an employer-provided group plan.
Which private insurance covers the most for dental in Canada?
Manulife Flexcare ComboPlus Enhanced offers one of the highest annual dental limits ($1,500), including orthodontics and major dental work.
Can I get private health insurance if I have pre-existing conditions?
Some providers offer guaranteed acceptance plans (like Green Shield) with limited benefits, but enhanced plans may require medical underwriting.
Is there a waiting period for dental or vision coverage?
Yes, most insurers have a waiting period of 3 to 6 months for basic dental and longer for major procedures or orthodontics. Check policy details before enrolling.
What is the average cost of private health insurance in Canada in 2025?
Individual plans range from $100 to $150 per month, depending on age, province, and coverage level. Family plans can be higher.
Conclusion
In 2025, having a strong private health insurance plan in Canada can make a significant difference, especially when it comes to dental and vision care. While the public system covers your basics, the top private plans offer peace of mind, faster access to services, and lower out-of-pocket costs.
Manulife, Sun Life, and Blue Cross lead the pack for comprehensive coverage, but Green Shield and Canada Life provide solid alternatives for affordability and flexibility. Choose the plan that fits your health needs and budget, and take control of your healthcare this year.
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