Meraki Dental Clinic

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 based on your oral hygiene, tartar buildup, and other factors. X-rays are also based on your oral health; a healthy adult may not need them at every visit.

Original dental records belong to the dentist who provided the treatment. Once you have selected a new dentist, you can request that a copy of your records be transferred. You may need to sign a release form and may be charged an administrative fee.

Your dentist and dental team use barrier protection such as gloves and masks, wash hands regularly, and sterilize equipment. This system is called 'standard precautions' and is used for every patient. You can ask to see how it's done.

It's important to get an early start on dental care. CDA encourages assessment of infants within 6 months of the first tooth eruption or by one year of age. Choose a dentist and make the first visit a positive experience.

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. You are responsible for payment, and the insurance company reimburses you for covered amounts. Many dentists are willing to contact your benefits carrier to find out coverage.

If you cannot afford care, ask your dentist about a payment plan. You can also contact social services for government-funded care or a dental school for reduced-cost treatment. Dentistry costs reflect high overhead for staff, equipment, and operating costs.

Store-bought kits contain weaker bleach and come with 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. Ask to see pictures, how many times the dentist has done the procedure, cost, duration, if it will need to be redone, and alternatives. The final decision is yours. You may also get a second opinion.

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