FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
SERVICE-RELATED QUESTIONS
Are You Accepting New Patients?
Yes! We are pleased to accept new and emergency patients of all ages. To make an appointment, please call (604) 294-0294 during business hours, or submit an online form at your convenience.
What Might I Expect at My First Appointment?
The first appointment is usually reserved for obtaining as complete a picture of your present-day oral health, as well as your dental and medical history. That comprehensive examination includes necessary x-rays, close-up intra oral photos, and an evaluation of past, existing and potential problems in order to make our initial assessment. We discuss our examination findings with you, recommend a treatment plan and provide a cost estimate. Because our focus is on preventive care, a periodontal health check and hygiene visit (cleaning) is also usually scheduled with this complete examination. It’s our responsibility to give you the information you need to make informed decisions about matters affecting your dental health. We encourage and appreciate questions from our patients.
What are Your Fees, and What Payment Options do You Provide?
Our fees correspond to those in the fee guide set by the College of Dental Surgeons of BC. If you have dental insurance, we would be pleased to submit the insurance paperwork directly to your insurance company for their portion of payment. Any other fees, including deductibles, are expected at the time of service. We accept Cash, Visa, Mastercard, and Direct Debit.
How Often Do I Need to Return for a Check-up?
We work diligently with our patients to explain when a next visit is required: each patient has different needs. Once we have gone through the first appointment, we will be able to best determine when you will need a follow-up visit. We provide a written reminder and/or contact you by telephone when it is time for you to return.
Do You Provide Teeth Whitening Treatments?
Absolutely! We offer an in-office whitening procedure using the ZOOM!™ system, a scientifically advanced chair-side whitening procedure using an advanced power ZOOM!™ chair-side lamp. It is safe and effective and results in dramatically whiter teeth in just an hour. As an alternative, we also offer conventional custom take-home trays; these may also be used in conjunction with in-office whitening. Tooth whitening is ideal for those who are generally happy with the appearance of their teeth, but would like to see them whiter.
Do You Replace Silver/Mercury Fillings with Natural Colour Fillings?
Yes, we do.
Do You Offer Sedation for Nervous Patients?
Absolutely: we are pleased to provide a safe medication that induces relaxation in even our most anxious patients. You may take this medication either one hour before your appointment at home or at our office. Some of our patients find this method so successful, they fall asleep during the treatment.
HEALTH-RELATED INQUIRIES
What Causes Tooth Decay?
Dental caries and periodontal disease are the most frequent causes of tooth loss because they affect the gums and bone structure that support teeth. Periodontal disease, which tends to afflict older adults, is caused by the build-up of plaque. Plaque is a colorless, sticky film; that film contains bacteria, which uses carbohydrates to produce an acid that attacks tooth enamel. Over time, enamel may break down and a cavity will form. If the enamel continues to dissolve, the acid will penetrate the inner layer of the tooth, where decay will spread throughout the tooth’s structure.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is caused when plaque produces byproducts that irritate your gums. Plaque must be removed daily, or it will turn into a hard deposit called “calculus.” When plaque continues to build on top of the calculus, the gums become irritated and a pocket is created between the teeth and gums. Eventually, that build-up destroys the gums and bone that supports the teeth.
Might Periodontal Disease be Prevented?
Removing plaque by regularly brushing your teeth is the best way to prevent periodontal disease in addition to reducing the sugars and starches eaten, using fluorides, getting professional teeth cleaning by a dental hygienist, and having teeth covered in plastic sealants.
How Many Times a Day Should I Brush my Teeth?
Consult with us about your individual needs and we will determine the best plan of action for you.
What kind of Toothpaste is Best?
We recommend a fluoride-based toothpaste for optimal oral health. If you have specific health concerns, we can recommend other types of toothpaste.