General Dentistry
Checkups, cleanings, gum care and the everyday work that keeps teeth healthy.
Care that keeps small problems small
General dentistry is the regular care that keeps small problems small. It covers your exam, your cleaning, X-rays when there is a reason for them, and the fillings or gum treatment that follow if we find something.
We see children, adults and seniors in the same practice, so a family can often come in together. If it has been a long time since your last visit, that is fine. Tell us, and we will take it at your pace.
What this covers
- Dental exams for children, adults and seniors
- Cleaning and scaling, including deeper cleaning below the gum line
- Gum health checks and treatment for gingivitis and periodontitis
- Digital X-rays when they are needed for a diagnosis
- Oral cancer screening as part of your exam
- Fluoride and sealants to protect teeth against decay
- Practical advice on brushing, flossing and dry mouth
What actually happens at the visit
This is the part most people want to know before they book, so here it is in order.
Checking in
You check in at the front desk and fill in a short health history. Tell us then about anything that worries you.
The examination
The dentist looks at your teeth, gums, bite and soft tissues. Nothing is done to a tooth during this part.
X-rays, only when there is a reason
If X-rays are needed, they are digital and each one takes a few seconds.
The cleaning
The hygienist cleans your teeth. You can raise a hand at any point and we stop.
What we found, in plain words
Before you leave you get a plain language summary of what we found and what, if anything, comes next.
Before treatment starts
We go through the options with you and what each one costs, and you decide what to go ahead with. Nothing is done to a tooth before you have said yes, and you can have the plan in writing.
Good to know
- Most people come every six months. Some need to come more often because of gum health, medication or a higher risk of decay, and we will tell you which applies to you.
- A cleaning can leave gums tender for a day. Warm salt water rinses help.
- A deeper cleaning below the gum line is sometimes split across two visits so each side is frozen separately.
- Bring a list of your medications. Several common ones cause dry mouth, which changes how quickly decay forms.
Who this is for
Children from their first tooth, adults, and seniors, including patients who wear dentures or who need a slower, gentler appointment.
If something does not feel right after an appointment, phone the clinic on (416) 744-6323. It is easier to sort out early than late, and we would rather hear from you.
Common questions
How often should I come in?
Most patients come every six months. If you have gum disease, a dry mouth, or a history of cavities, we may suggest a shorter interval and we will explain why.
Do I need X-rays every time?
No. X-rays are taken when there is a reason, such as checking between teeth or under an existing filling. They are digital, so exposure is low.
It has been years since I saw a dentist. Will I get a lecture?
No. A lot of our patients come back after a long gap. We look, we tell you what we see, and we agree an order for dealing with it.
Can my children and I be seen on the same day?
Often yes. Tell the front desk you want family appointments together and they will look for slots side by side.
Book this visit
Book a checkup and a cleaning, or call the front desk if you would rather talk it through before you book.
Open seven days a week, evenings until 9:00 pm on weekdays.
Not sure what your plan covers?
Bring your insurance card, or your program card, to your appointment. The front desk checks your coverage before treatment starts and tells you plainly if something is not covered.
Insurance and programs