Q1: Do you bill directly to my dental insurance?
A: Yes, we do!
Q2: If I don’t have insurance, how much does a cleaning cost?
A: The cost of a cleaning can vary depending on when your last cleaning was, how many units of scaling is needed, if your due for x-rays etc. Typically you could be looking between $300-$450. We charge by the BC Dental association fee guide, we do not charge above or beyond this.
Q3: How often should I see the dentist and hygienist?
A: On average most people should have a checkup and cleaning every 6 months. This is to catch anything before it gets big, and to maintain good oral hygiene. Some people need more frequent cleanings if they have deeper gum pockets.
Q4: How often should I have x-rays and are they safe?
A: For most people we take bitewing x-rays once a year to check for any cavities between the teeth, however if someone is lower risk we might wait a little longer. A panoramic x-ray is one that goes around your whole head to so we can see all your teeth, jaw, sinus’, etc. These are usually recommended every 3-5 years. X-rays are typically very safe, we have digital radiographs which the radiation is very minimal.
Q5: What is Fluoride, and is it safe?
A: Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally and is released from rocks into the soil and water. The City of Kelowna removed the fluoride in the drinking water back in 1996. Fluoride is safe in small amounts. Fluoride helps remineralize your tooth enamel (making enamel stronger), which can prevent cavities and reverse early signs of tooth decay.
Q6: When should my child first visit the dentist?
A: The Canadian Dental Associate recommends children visit the dentist within 6 months of their first tooth erupting or by 1 year of age. Whichever comes first! This is to help with healthy habits, and catch any problem while it’s still small.
Q7: When should I start using a fluoride toothpaste for my child? When should I start flossing my child’s teeth?
A: You can introduce toothpaste with fluoride once a few teeth erupt. We recommend a rice or smear sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for kids under 3, and a pea sized amount for kids 3 and up. Flossing should start when your child has 2 teeth that touch. Often this is when the primary molars erupt around age 2 to 3, sometimes earlier.
Q8: Is a soother harmful to my child’s jaw development?
A: Yes, potentially if a soother is used for longer than 1-2 years. Over time the prolonged, persistent sucking motion can apply unfavorable forces to the teeth and jaws, which may cause abnormal development.
Q9: I have dental anxiety, what are my sedation options?
A: We offer different sedation options for kids and adults depending on your individual needs! We have IV sedation, Nitrous sedation (laughing gas), and oral sedation options.
Q10: How much is teeth whitening?
A: We have a few different teeth whitening options, prefabricated take home and go trays, custom whitening trays and in office whitening. Prices start at $125.00.
Q11: What is Invisalign?
A: Invisalign is a series of clear aligners that gradually move and straighten your teeth with different forces. Treatment time could be 3 months for minor movements or up to 12 months for a more comprehensive case.