How Can We Help You?

Frequently Asked Questions

Here we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions we get, but if you don’t find the answers you’re looking for, feel free to reach out, and our friendly staff will help you get the information you’re looking for.
  • Does my dentist need to wear gloves and a mask, and how do I know he or she is using clean tools?

    Your health is very important to your dentist. One of the ways that your dentist helps you stay healthy is by preventing the spread of germs. One of the best ways to do this is to use barrier protection such as gloves and masks.

    Your dentist and other dental team members also wash their hands regularly. In addition, they sterilize equipment used in the dental office and clean the furniture and fixtures in the examining rooms. This system is referred to as “standard precautions.” It means that every patient is treated in the same way because patients don’t always know if they’re sick. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

    If you would like to know how this system is carried out in your dentist’s office, ask to be shown how it’s done. Dentists welcome the opportunity to ease their patients’ concerns, rather than have them leave the office with unanswered questions. Once you see the work that goes into making the dental office a clean and safe environment, you will feel reassured.

    It is worth noting that even though standard precautions are used, it is still important to tell your dentist of changes in your health. This will help your dentist suggest the right choices of treatment for you.

  • How can I get my records transferred?

    Original dental records belong to the dentist who provided the treatment, and not the patient, because dentists have to keep all of their records for a period of time, as set out by their provincial dental regulatory body.Once you have selected a new dentist, you can request that a copy of your records be transferred from your former dentist. You may be required to sign a release form from your former dental office and you may also be charged an administrative fee for having your records copied and sent to another dental office. If you have questions about the records transfer process in your province, ask your dentist or contact the provincial dental regulatory body.

  • What are dental implants?

    Dental implants are titanium posts placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Implants are durable and function like natural teeth, providing a long-term solution for tooth loss.

  • What is orthodontics?

    Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating misaligned teeth and jaws. If you or your child have crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, or other alignment issues, we can schedule a consultation in our office to discuss how we can improve your smile.

  • What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?

    We understand that things come up. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please let us know at least 48 hours in advance. This allows us to offer your time slot to other patients who may need it. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance may incur a fee.

  • What do I need to bring to my appointment?

    Please bring your insurance card (if applicable), a valid ID, and a list of any medications you are currently taking. If it is your first visit, bring any necessary medical records or details about your medical history.

  • How can I schedule an appointment?

    You can schedule an appointment by calling our office, sending us an email, or booking online through our website. Our friendly team will help find a convenient time for you.

  • What should I do if my child has a toothache?

    If your child is experiencing a toothache, call our office as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can give them over-the-counter pain relievers (based on age and weight) to help ease discomfort and apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek to reduce swelling.

  • When should my child have their first dental visit?

    The American Dental Association recommends that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of the eruption of their first tooth. Early visits help establish good oral habits and allow us to monitor development.

  • What can I do if I have bad breath (halitosis)?

    Bad breath can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor oral hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, or certain medical conditions. We can help identify the cause and recommend treatments such as professional cleanings, more thorough brushing and flossing, or other solutions based on the underlying issue.

  • Why do I need dental X-rays?

    Dental X-rays allow us to detect problems that are not visible to the naked eye, such as cavities between teeth, bone loss, infections, and other dental conditions. We use digital X-rays, which have minimal radiation and are very safe.

  • How can I prevent gum disease?

    Gum disease is preventable with proper oral hygiene—brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing the dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups. If you smoke or have conditions like diabetes, you may need to be extra vigilant about your gum health.

  • How much will my treatment cost?

    The cost of treatment varies depending on the procedure. We will provide you with an estimate before any work is done.   We believe in transparent pricing and will ensure you understand all costs upfront.

  • What if I do not have dental insurance?

    Our team can help you explore affordable options to get the care you need.

  • Do you accept my dental insurance?

    We accept a wide range of insurance plans. When you call to schedule an appointment, we can verify your insurance coverage and let you know what to expect in terms of coverage. We also help with filing claims and maximizing your benefits.

  • How can I prevent cavities?

    The best way to prevent cavities is by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. We can also apply sealants to vulnerable areas of your teeth to offer extra protection.

  • What is a root canal?

    A root canal is a procedure used to treat infection or damage inside a tooth. It involves removing the infected pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth), cleaning the area, and sealing it to prevent further infection. Root canals are often necessary when a tooth is severely decayed or has deep infection.

  • Is teeth whitening safe?

    Yes, teeth whitening is generally safe when performed under the supervision of a dentist. We offer both in-office whitening and take-home kits, and we’ll help you choose the best option based on your needs and any concerns you may have.

  • What’s the difference between a filling and a crown?

    A filling is used to restore a tooth that has decay or damage. It fills the cavity and helps protect the tooth. A crown is a cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function, especially when the tooth is significantly compromised (e.g., after a root canal or due to large decay).