Many people are not sure what to expect at their first dental visit. Whether they are starting a new dental health journey, have moved to a new community, or are new arrivals to Canada, the prospect of seeing a dentist for the first time can be overwhelming.
At Yonge Eglinton Dental, our dental team prioritizes patient comfort when you visit our offices. We ensure you have an optimal experience as we work together to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
This first dental visit guide will help you understand what happens at a dental checkup at Yonge Eglinton Dental so that you can enjoy a positive visit with confidence.
Taking that first step to make a dental appointment
Making an appointment with Yonge Eglinton Dental is as simple as picking up the phone and dialling 416-932-2222. Our friendly team will help find a date and time that works best for your busy schedule, and, if you have a pressing dental concern such as tooth pain or bleeding gums, we will fit you in as soon as possible.
We will also collect a few personal details, including your contact information and any special needs that need accommodating when you visit us.
This is also an excellent opportunity to ask questions about our office or team, and share any concerns or fears you have about dentistry, so we can take steps to ensure you feel safe and comfortable while visiting us.
Preparing for your dental appointment
Before coming to your appointment, it is a good idea to gather the following information so we can create a complete patient profile and ensure you get the best dental health care possible:
Dental records
Any available records from previous dental treatments, surgeries, and X-rays to help us fully understand your dental history and plan treatments
Medical history
A list of any chronic illnesses you have been diagnosed with, such as diabetes or heart disease, any allergies you have, and all medications you are currently taking including any over the counter supplements
Insurance information, if applicable
Insurance card and coverage information to help us plan treatments and eliminate confusion about billing
Visiting our office for the first time
As soon as you step through our doors at 2345 Yonge St., Suite 202, just north of the intersection of Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue, you will be greeted warmly by our reception team. Our new patient check-in experience usually includes some paperwork to add to your patient profile.
Feel free to ask our reception team any questions you have about our office or share any concerns. The more we know, the better we will be able to relieve any anxiety and fulfill your needs for a safe, comfortable examination.
Your dental assistant will then lead you to the examination room for a quick consultation with the dentist. At this time, we discuss your medical history, lifestyle habits, such as smoking, and any current concerns you have about your teeth and gums. Your dentist will also need to know if you are pregnant or believe you might be.
You can also discuss any specific dental care anxiety or negative past experiences you may have had at previous dental offices, so we can work together on how we can alleviate them. Our team specializes in providing empathetic care and will do what we can to make your time with us as pleasant and comfortable as possible.
Your first examination at Yonge-Eglinton Dental
After your initial consultation, we will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, tongue, jaw joints, and soft tissue in your mouth. We will note any issues we discover, such as cavities, tooth decay, gum recession, gum disease, and anything else that can compromise oral health.
We may also recommend X-rays, if appropriate, to detect any issues beneath the gumline and in other places in your mouth that are not clearly visible.
Another essential part of any dental visit is a professional cleaning by one of our dental hygienists. We will be careful to remove any plaque or tartar buildup that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease while ensuring your complete comfort. As we move through each part of the cleaning, we are happy to explain each procedure beforehand if it helps relieve any anxiety you might be feeling.
If you feel you need a break at any time during the examination, just let us know with a hand signal or other method of communication so we can stop until you feel ready to proceed.
The last part of your visit involves discussing treatment options to solve any oral health issues we have identified. Even if you come in with a healthy smile, we can provide some valuable tips on maintaining it before your next visit.
Speaking of which…do not forget to book your next visit before leaving our office! Unless you need additional dental care to fix a dental issue, your next checkup will likely be booked for four to six months down the road. If you like, we can send you a reminder so you can arrange to be available or have ample time to rebook beforehand.
Dentist visit tips for your next appointment
We are thrilled that you had a positive first visit with us! Every new appointment gets easier as we work together to diminish any concerns or anxiety you might have been feeling before meeting us.
However, the best way to have a positive subsequent visit is to follow the preventative dental health care routine recommended to you by our team. In most cases, this will include:
- Brushing twice per day using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle brush
- Flossing at least once per day
- Drinking plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated
- Eating a nutritious diet with tooth-friendly foods
- Calling Yonge Eglinton Dental if you are experiencing any dental health issues in between visits
Remember: we are not just a team of professional dental healthcare providers. We are your partners in helping you and your family enjoy bright, healthy, beautiful smiles for a lifetime. Whether you have been our patient for years or are stepping through our doors for the first time, we will always welcome you with kindness, empathy, and a commitment to fulfilling your dental needs.
Start a new dental health journey today with help from the experts at Yonge Eglinton Dental in Toronto
Talk to our dental health team when you are ready to optimize your oral health. We will work together to ensure your teeth and gums look great and are as strong and healthy as possible. Make an appointment for an office visit today by calling our office at 416-932-2222 or booking online.
We look forward to seeing you!
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