Information For New Patients

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will my first visit take?

It’s pretty common for a first appointment with our office to take about an hour. That gives us time to familiarize ourselves with your previous dental treatment, and understand your current oral health goals. Don’t forget to arrive a few minutes early.

Is there anything I need to bring with me?

Yes! Please complete our New Patient Form* online prior to your appointment. Alternatively, you can download and print out a New Patient Form here.

The new patient form helps our team get an understanding of your overall health.

*IMPORTANT: Any form submitted by email must be encrypted, to ensure it is secure. By submitting an unencrypted email form, you are consenting to an unsecured email. Alternatively, please print off the form, complete it, and bring it to our office.

What can I expect during the visit?

During your first visit, we’ll complete a full oral exam – including x-rays – in order to assess the overall health of your smile.

Once the exam is complete, our knowledgeable staff will develop a personalized oral health plan, from at-home care to (potentially) additional services that you and your dentist agree upon. We’ll also recommend a time for your next appointment.

Your first visit is also a great time to ask questions about your treatment options, or to discuss your goals for your oral health. Please don’t hesitate to talk to our staff about any questions or concerns.

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

Our staff will contact you one week prior to your appointment, and again the day before your appointment, to remind you of your dental visit.

However, it is your responsibility to arrive for your scheduled treatment.

Should you need to change or cancel your appointment, we ask that you give our office a minimum of two business days' notice.

Caring For Your Smile Between Appointments

Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Brush when you first get out of bed, and before you lie down to sleep at night. Use short, gentle strokes to brush plaque away from your gums.

Floss daily. It helps to get rid of food particles in places that your toothbrush can’t reach, like below your gum line.

Brush your tongue, too! Use a back-to-front sweeping motion to help rid your mouth of food particles, and to freshen your breath. Using a tongue scraper is even more affective than using your toothbrush.

Change your toothbrush often. We recommend replacing your toothbrush (or the head of your electric toothbrush) at least once every three months, or when the bristles start to fray.

Pack an apple in your lunch. Certain foods, like apples, can actually help to clean your teeth. If you can't brush right after your meal, eat an apple instead. It’ll help keep your teeth clean until you’re able to brush.

Brush your teeth with baking soda once a week. This helps to remove stains and whiten your smile. So does drinking plenty of water. Try to drink a glass of water every hour while you’re at work. It’ll help flush bacteria off your teeth and out of your mouth.

If you have any additional questions regarding your first visit to Highland Dental Centre, feel free to get in touch any time. We look forward to meeting you!