What is the Children in Need of Treatment program?

The Children In Need Of Treatment (CINOT) financial assistance program is intended for babies, kids and teens, age 17 and under, who urgently need dental care.  CINOT is funded by the Province of Ontario and individual municipalities, and is administered through local health units.  This program offers financial assistance to low-income families without dental insurance, for whom the cost of dental care would create financial hardship.  A parent or guardian is required to sign a declaration to this effect, and may be required to produce financial documentation to substantiate their claim.

What services are covered under CINOT?

Not all dental care is eligible; however CINOT provides fillings, extractions, sedation, preventive dental care, and dental health support and information. Some services are age-dependent, and others require pre-authorization.  Dentists in our community have a current schedule of benefits, and are aware of which services are covered.  If a child needs treatment not covered by CINOT, the dentist is required to advise the parent or guardian prior to treatment.  Referral to a specialist is covered, when necessary. Preventive services such as cleaning, fluoride treatments, scaling, home fluoride rinse, and oral hygiene instruction are provided free-of-charge by dental staff at the Health Unit.

Who receives treatment covered by CINOT?

Children, 17 year’s of age and under, with urgent dental needs may be eligible if they reside in Peterborough County/City, and have a valid Ontario Health Card Number.


How is CINOT accessed?

Children may be identified during routine oral health screenings in Junior and Senior Kindergarten, and Grades 2, 4, 6 and/or 8.  However, anyone concerned that a child has a toothache, bleeding gums, cavities, or a mouth injury can call Dental Program staff at the Health Unit to set up a screening appointment.  If the child meets eligibility requirements, the parent or guardian will be given a CINOT claim form to take to the dentist of their choice. The claim form is valid for six months, and treatment must be completed within that time period.

Are dental emergencies covered by CINOT?

Emergency treatment for the relief of pain or trauma is covered without a screening appointment, as long as the parent or guardian contacts the Health Unit the next working day following the emergency visit.

For more information…

If you have any questions, please contact JoAnne Leach, Dental Assistant, or Tracey Stevens, Dental Hygienist, at (705) 743-1000.