Patient FAQ

On your first visit, we recommend that you bring the following items:
- Your dental history
- Prior dental x-rays
- A list of your concerns and/or questions
- Identification
- Form of payment
- Private health insurance details

Since this is your first appointment, you can expect to be greeted by one of our friendly staff that will give you paperwork to fill out. This paperwork will likely take about 15 minutes to fill out so we ask that you try to arrive 15-20 minutes prior to your appointment. This paperwork will document your personal information, any past illnesses, and dental problems/surgery. You will be invited to our waiting room, which we have striven to make as comfortable and relaxing as possible. Books and magazines are available, as well as complimentary Wifi. A play area for children is also available to help parents keep their children entertained while waiting for their appointment.

When your name is called, you will be greeted by one of our hygienists or assistants who will review your information and history, and become more familiar with your current needs. After a thorough exam by the dentist, any work needed wil be thoroughly explained step by step by our staff before commencing.

We encourage questions from our patients, so please feel free to ask at any time during your visit.

A typical first visit usually begins with oral x-rays and pictures, as needed. We may then recommend a particular procedure, which may or may not take place that same day depending on the condition of your teeth and gums, and time available. Cleanings may take place the same day and are typically performed by our hygienists. Should you have sensitive teeth, you may elect to have de-sensitizing gel placed on your gums, or local anesthetic, before any cleaning commences. Once your visit is over, you will be escorted to our front desk to close out your visit with our receptionist and to schedule a follow-up.

We realize dental emergencies can be very distressing. Our practice welcomes both new and existing patients who may be experiencing a dental emergency. We believe that handling emergencies is intrinsic to our duties as health practitioners. Should you find yourself experiencing pain, discomfort or a clear problem that is not yet causing pain but may very well result in such, please feel free to call our office and speak with one of our staff members about your particular situation. If a dental emergency appointment is necessary, we will do our best to work you into that day’s schedule. If necessary, we will come in after-hours to treat you. Taking care of our patients is our highest priority, especially when it comes to dental emergencies.

We recommend having your teeth cleaned at least every six months, if not more often. Regular teeth cleanings prevent gum disease, and checkups allow us to spot potential problems before they become serious.

Frequency of x-rays depends on your oral health. Healthy adults without recent cavities or problems don’t need x-rays during every appointment. If you’ve recently had dental problems, it may be advisable to take x-rays more frequently. Remember that x-rays deliver minimal radiation and are an essential tool for us to ensure we catch small problems before they develop into more serious ones.

Getting an early start on dental care for your child is advantageous. The child will become comfortable with the thought that dental care is a regular part of staying healthy. The Canadian Dental Association suggests assessment by a dentist within 6 months of the first tooth eruption. Remember that your child may be nervous, so do your best to stay calm, so the child will be as well.

Although it is fairly common for gums to bleed a little when brushing, this often indicates the beginning stages of gum disease. If the disease progresses, it can lead to the recession of the gums and possible tooth loss. Schedule an appointment with us immediately if gum bleeding persists or gets worse.

Cosmetic dentistry can do everything from whitening your teeth to completely reshaping your smile. If there is anything you wish to change about the appearance of your teeth, chances are cosmetic dentistry can help.

Whether you are missing one tooth or a number of teeth, our dentists can help you find the restoration that is right for you. A popular form of tooth replacement is the dental implant procedure which involves the surgical placement of a titanium post, then the placement of a naturally looking replacement tooth or crown. Other excellent options are a dental bridge, or dentures. Our dentists will meet with you to discuss the best restoration option for you.

We offer in-office teeth whitening. However, if tooth whitening is not an option, you may be a better candidate for obtaining a whiter smile via cosmetic dental bonding, porcelain veneers, or porcelain crowns. Ask our dentists for more information.

The cost of cosmetic dental treatment varies from procedure to procedure. While many cosmetic treatments, such as tooth whitening, are relatively inexpensive, more involved procedures, such as porcelain restorations and porcelain veneers, incur higher costs but tend to produce longer-lasting, highly attractive results.

Please do take note that we ask for 48 hours notice when cancelling bookings so that we may offer your appointment time to other patients who are in need of care.

A VELScope is a light that we use to illuminate abnormal tissue inside your mouth. It only takes a couple of minutes, is non-invasive and completely painless. For more information, please contact our office. In the meantime, this website can help you understand more about the VELScope.

Myofunctional Therapy is a series of oral exercises that helps correct problems with tongue positioning and swallowing. Bad habits with the tongue and swallowing can lead to improper teeth positioning and crowding, as well as airway issues. For more information, please contact our office. In the meantime, this website can help you understand more about Myofunctional Therapy.