About an hour. No pressure, no lecture, no surprise bill.
If it has been a while since you saw a dentist, the not-knowing is often worse than the appointment. Here is exactly what happens.
Before You Arrive
Bring photo ID, your insurance card or Sun Life card if you are covered under CDCP, and a list of any medications. If you would like your records transferred, bring your previous dentist’s name and we will request them.
Arrive a few minutes early to complete your medical history, or fill it in ahead of time if we send it to you.
1. We Talk First
Before anyone looks in your mouth, we sit down and talk. Your medical history, medications, anything that has been bothering you, and what you want out of your dental care.
This is also where you tell us if you are anxious, if you have had a bad experience somewhere, or if there is something specific you would rather we did not do. It genuinely changes how we run the appointment.
2. Examination
A full look at your teeth, gums, bite and soft tissue, including an oral cancer screening. We check existing fillings and crowns, look for decay, and assess your gum health. See dental checkups for detail.
3. X-rays
Where we need to see what an examination cannot — decay between teeth, bone levels, roots. Digital X-rays, low dose, taken only where there is a clinical reason.
4. Cleaning
Usually in the same visit. If there is significant buildup or your gums need attention, we may book a separate appointment rather than rushing it. See dental cleanings.
5. Findings and Plan
We tell you what we found, plainly. If everything is fine, we say so and book you in six months.
If treatment is needed, you get a written plan with costs and priorities — urgent first, structural next, cosmetic last or never. You decide what happens and when. Nobody is going to pressure you into agreeing to anything on the day.
If You Are Nervous
Tell us when you book and again when you arrive. We work at your pace, explain before we do anything, and agree a hand signal to stop. Sedation is available if you want it.
You will not be judged for the state of your teeth or for how long it has been. We see this every week.
What It Costs
A new patient visit covers the examination, X-rays where needed, and usually a cleaning. See fees and payment. Covered under CDCP and virtually all private plans.
Bringing a Child
First visits for children are shorter and mostly about familiarity. You are welcome in the room. See children’s dentistry.
Book Your First Visit
Book online, or see new patient information.