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Home of Smiles Dental Clinic

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your first visit or have a question about your care? Find answers about appointments, coverage and what to expect. If you need more information, our team is happy to help.

Appointments & your first visit+
Are you accepting new patients?+

Yes. We welcome new patients and families. Call us or send an appointment request online.

Do you offer same-day appointments?+

We reserve time for urgent cases.

What should I bring to my first visit?+

Photo ID, your insurance or benefits information, a list of current medications, and any recent dental x-rays if you have them.

Will I have a cleaning at my first appointment?+

Please ask when booking whether your appointment includes a cleaning. Your first visit may focus on a comprehensive exam or a specific concern, with cleaning arranged according to your needs and appointment availability.

Can I book an appointment for just one concern?+

Yes. Tell us what’s bothering you when you contact us. We’ll arrange an assessment focused on your concern, and your dentist will explain whether any further examination is recommended.

Insurance & payment+
Do you bill insurance directly?+

Yes. We offer direct billing to most dental insurance plans. Bring your benefits information so we can help you understand your coverage and estimated out-of-pocket costs. Any amount not covered by your plan remains your responsibility.

Insurance & CDCP →

Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan?+

Yes. We accept CDCP. Please bring your member information so we can help check your coverage. Depending on your coverage and the services provided, you may still have a co-payment or additional costs.

Can I discuss costs before treatment?+

Yes. We’ll explain the proposed treatment and estimated costs before proceeding. Please ask if you’d like clarification about your options or how your benefits may apply.

Comfort & ongoing care+
What if I’m nervous about visiting the dentist?+

Please tell us when booking. We can discuss your concerns, explain what to expect and talk about ways to help you feel more comfortable.

It’s been years since my last appointment. Can I still come in?+

Yes. You’re welcome here, whether it’s been months or years. We’ll discuss your concerns, assess your oral health and help you understand the next steps.

How often should I have a check-up and cleaning?+

Most patients do well with a check-up and cleaning every six months. We will recommend a schedule based on your oral health.

Do you see children?+

Yes. We welcome children and families. Let us know your child’s age and any concerns when booking so we can help you prepare for the visit.

More questions+
How should I take care of my teeth at home?+

Brush twice a day for two minutes with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste, and clean between your teeth once a day with floss or interdental brushes. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, and replace your toothbrush every three months or when the bristles fray. Regular visits catch problems that home care cannot.

Are dental x-rays safe?+

Yes. Dental x-rays use a very low dose of radiation, and digital x-rays use even less than film. They let us see cavities between teeth, bone loss and infection that cannot be seen by looking. How often you need them depends on your age, risk of decay and dental history.

When should my child first see a dentist?+

Around their first birthday, or within about six months of their first tooth coming in. Early visits are short and gentle, and help children get comfortable with the dental office. We also give parents tips on brushing, feeding habits and thumb sucking.

What if I do not have insurance?+

You are still welcome. We will explain your options and the cost of any recommended treatment before you decide. Ask our team about your situation and we will help you plan care that works for you.

Will a filling or root canal hurt?+

We use local anesthetic so the area is numb during treatment. A root canal has a reputation for being painful, but it is done to relieve the pain of an infected tooth, and most people feel much better afterward. Some soreness for a few days is normal and usually managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

Why do my gums bleed when I brush or floss?+

Bleeding gums are most often an early sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis) caused by plaque buildup. Keep brushing and flossing gently and consistently, and book a check-up. A professional cleaning and better home care usually clear it up. If it does not improve, or your gums are swollen, tender or receding, we should take a look.

Is teeth whitening safe?+

Whitening done under a dentist's guidance is safe for most healthy teeth and gums. Some people have temporary sensitivity. It does not work on crowns or fillings, and teeth with cavities or gum problems should be treated first. We can tell you what to expect for your teeth.

Do I need to get my wisdom teeth removed?+

Not always. Wisdom teeth that are healthy, fully through and easy to clean can stay. We recommend removal when they are impacted, causing pain or infection, damaging nearby teeth, or hard to keep clean. An exam and x-ray tell us whether yours should come out.

Is dental care safe during pregnancy?+

Yes, and regular care is encouraged. Hormonal changes can make gums more prone to swelling and bleeding. Tell us if you are pregnant so we can plan around it, for example by timing x-rays and treatment carefully.

What if I need to cancel or change my appointment?+

Please call us as soon as you know, ideally with at least 24 hours notice, so we can offer the time to another patient and find you a new one. Late cancellations and missed appointments may be charged a fee at the clinic's discretion.

Urgent dental concerns

What if I have a dental emergency?+

Call us as soon as possible. We will advise you over the phone and find the earliest available appointment.

Is an online appointment request a confirmed booking?+

No. It lets us know you’d like an appointment. Our team will contact you to discuss availability and confirm your visit.

What do I do if a tooth is knocked out?+

Call us immediately. For a permanent adult tooth, hold it by the crown (the white part), not the root. If it is dirty, rinse it gently with milk or saline without scrubbing. If it slips back into the socket easily, gently replace it and bite on a clean cloth; if not, keep it in a container of milk. A baby tooth should never be put back into the socket. Contact a dentist right away for advice.

Emergency dental care →

I have a toothache. What should I do?+

Rinse with warm water, gently floss to remove anything stuck between the teeth, and take over-the-counter pain relief as directed on the label. Do not put aspirin on the gum. A toothache usually means something needs treatment, so call us to be seen. Swelling, fever or a bad taste in the mouth can mean an infection and need prompt attention.

Still have a question?

You don't have to figure everything out before getting in touch. Contact our team for help with booking, preparing for your visit or understanding your coverage.