Envision Dental

How often you go for dental exams depends on your oral health needs. The goal is to catch small problems early. For many people, this means a dental exam every six months. Your dentist may suggest more or less often depending on your oral health. X-rays also depend on your oral health; a healthy adult may not need them at every appointment.

List your needs (location, hours, languages, etc.), ask for recommendations, and call potential dentists to see if they are accepting new patients. To transfer records, request a copy from your former dentist; you may need to sign a release and pay an administrative fee.

Your dentist uses barrier protection like gloves and masks, washes hands regularly, and sterilizes equipment. This is called 'standard precautions.' You can ask to see how it's done to ease your concerns.

It's important to get an early start. CDA encourages assessment of infants within 6 months of the first tooth eruption or by one year of age. Make the first visit positive and avoid showing nervousness.

Dental plans are benefit carriers that reimburse patients based on coverage. The dentist's role is to make a treatment plan based on your oral health needs, not your coverage. You are responsible for payment, and many dentists offer payment plans.

Ask your dentist about a payment plan. If you cannot afford care, contact social services or a dental school for reduced-cost treatment. Dentistry costs reflect high overhead, but regular exams can prevent costly treatments.

Store-bought kits have weaker bleach and one-size-fits-all trays that may leak. Dentists use stronger products, provide custom trays, and monitor side effects, leading to better results.

Ask questions about the procedure, cost, duration, alternatives, and the dentist's experience. You can also get a second opinion if needed.

Formal complaints are handled by your provincial regulatory body, not CDA.