Your first visit
New here? Here's what to bring, what's included, and what to expect — no surprises.
What to expectHealth-history forms are ready for you when you arrive — come 10 minutes early.
Patient Resources
Helpful things for home.
Everything you need to get ready for a visit and look after your smile between them. Informed neighbours make the best decisions about their care.
"We put this page together so you'd have it all in one place — how to prepare, how to heal, how to keep things healthy at home, and answers to what folks ask us most. If something isn't covered, just call — we're happy to help."
Preparing for an appointment
Depending on your procedure there may be a few steps to follow beforehand. We'll give you specific instructions when you book, but the general guidelines below cover the most common visits.
View guidelinesPreparation guidelines
General guidelines for the most common visits. We'll always give you specific instructions for your treatment when you book.
Teeth cleaning
Brush and floss normally before your visit. No special preparation needed. Eat a normal meal beforehand — you won't be numb after a cleaning.
Whitening
Avoid staining foods and drinks (coffee, red wine, berries) for 24 hours before. Brush normally but skip whitening toothpaste. Some sensitivity is normal and temporary.
Fillings or crowns
Eat a light meal beforehand — you may be numb for 1–2 hours after. Tell us about any medication changes, and bring a list of allergies if it's your first procedure with us.
Root canal
Take any prescribed medication as directed. Eat beforehand, as numbness can last several hours. Wear comfortable clothing.
Extractions
Don't smoke for 24 hours before. Tell us about all medications, including blood thinners and supplements. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and plan a quiet afternoon.
General aftercare
Following these after a procedure helps healing go smoothly. We'll also give you procedure-specific instructions at your appointment.
After a procedure
- Take prescribed medications as directed — finish the full course of antibiotics if prescribed
- Ice packs 15 minutes on, 15 off, to manage swelling
- Soft foods for 24–48 hours after procedures (yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, smoothies)
- No smoking, straws, or vigorous rinsing for 24 hours — protect the treatment site
- Gentle warm salt-water rinses starting 24 hours after (½ tsp salt in 8 oz water)
- Call us if you have unexpected pain, bleeding, or swelling that worsens after 48 hours
- Keep your follow-up appointments — they're how we make sure you're healing well
Daily oral health tips
The best dental care happens between visits. Here's what we recommend at home — practical advice you can start today.
Brush properly, twice a day
Soft-bristled brush, fluoride toothpaste, a full two minutes — most people stop too early. Gentle circles rather than scrubbing, and don't forget your tongue and the gum line. Replace your brush every 3–4 months or when the bristles look frayed.
Floss daily (yes, really)
Flossing clears plaque and food from between teeth where a brush can't reach — about a third of your tooth surface. If string floss is a pain, try floss picks, a water flosser, or interdental brushes. The best tool is the one you'll actually use.
Don't skip regular checkups
Professional cleanings remove tartar that brushing can't, and regular exams catch problems early — when they're simpler and cheaper to fix. Most people do well with visits every 6 months; we'll recommend a schedule that fits you.
Watch what you eat (and when)
Sugary and acidic foods feed the bacteria that cause cavities — and frequency matters as much as quantity. Constant snacking keeps your teeth in an acidic bath. Limit snacks, rinse with water after eating, and wait 30 minutes after acidic foods before brushing.
When to call us
Not sure if something warrants a call? Quick reference below. When in doubt, call — we'd always rather hear from you early.
Persistent toothache
Same day
Pain that doesn't respond to over-the-counter medication or lasts more than 24 hours.
Swollen gums or face
Same day
Swelling can mean infection. Don't apply heat — call us right away.
Broken or chipped tooth
Same day
Even small chips should be looked at. Save any pieces and avoid chewing on that side.
Lost filling or crown
Within 24–48 hours
The exposed tooth is vulnerable. Avoid chewing on that side and keep the area clean.
Bleeding gums when brushing
Schedule this week
Occasional bleeding can be early gum disease — very treatable when caught early.
Sensitivity to hot or cold
Schedule this week
Could be a cavity, worn enamel, or an exposed root. Usually an easy fix.
Common questions
Questions about your visit?
Whether it's prep instructions, aftercare, or just wanting to know what to expect — no question is too small. Call (403) 651-0007 or reserve a spot online.