Booking
What happens at my first visit?
You will get a careful oral examination by your dentist, who will check for things like tooth decay, gum disease and other things that can affect not just your mouth, but your overall health. Then you’ll talk together about any treatments you might benefit from. You may get a teeth cleaning on your first dental visit, or it may be scheduled for a follow-up visit.
What should I bring with me?
Dental X-rays from the last six months
We can take X-rays if you don’t have them
Your medical and dental history info, including any medications you’re taking
Your dental insurance card (if you have insurance)
Your parent if you’re under 18
Payments
Can you provide a treatment estimate?
Absolutely! Our dentists will work with you to review treatment options and provide a cost estimate for the treatment plan before proceeding. Submitting a pre-determination to your plan provider will provide an estimate of what your dental plan will cover prior to treatment.
Note: A dentist can only provide an estimate. As with any medical-based procedure treatment planning can change over the course of treatment; this can have an influence on cost.
Do you direct bill my insurance company?
We do! You’re busy, and sometimes just making it to your dentist appointment on time can be a challenge, let alone filling out insurance forms. Not to mention, paying for dental care upfront and having to wait weeks to be reimbursed by cheque is old-school – and a real drain on your finances! If you need the convenience of direct billing, we can help!
How much do I have to pay in co-payment?
This will depend entirely on your dental insurance plan and the percentage of treatment covered by the plan. Ask your benefits manager or insurance provider for a plan booklet or information on your specific coverage.
Caring for my teeth and gums
How hard should I brush my teeth?
One should brush their teeth at a 45 degree angle in small circular motions with very minimum pressure for at least two minutes, twice a day. Brushing with excessive force can lead gums to recede as well as wearing down of the enamel. It is recommended to use a soft-bristle toothbrush to prevent injury to the gums and teeth which can lead to sensitivity or pain.
My temporary fell out. What should I do?
A temporary is placed when a prosthetic (crown or bridge) device has been prepped to prevent teeth from shifting. A temporary also acts as protection against hot/cold liquids, crunchy foods, as well as avoiding tooth from fracturing. If at any time the temporary placed becomes loose return to the dental office to have it re-cemented. Out of town or the office is closed? Simple, just add a small amount of toothpaste.
Why do my gums bleed?
Generally gums will bleed when they are inflamed due to gum disease, lack of flossing, or to brushing with excessive pressure/force.
Why do I need to floss?
Brushing alone does not remove food particles or plaque from between teeth and small pits. Flossing helps prevent decay in hard to reach areas and between the teeth. The lack of flossing causing food particles and plaque to harden into tartar which can only be removed by your dentist. When prosthetics (Crowns or Bridge) are placed the importance of flossing increases; this maintains the gum around healthy and maximizes the lifetime of the prosthetics.
Do my teeth shift or move?
Yes. It is a natural process that happens as a person grows. When teeth are extracted the newly given space will cause the shifting of teeth to fill in the area.
What do I do in the event of an emergency?
Call a local dentist but if no one is able to be reach go to the nearest emergency room.