Patient Information

Welcome to our FAQ page, where we aim to provide comprehensive information about the independent gentle dental hygiene services we offer. If you have any questions that are not addressed here, please feel free to reach out.

What is an independent Dental Hygienist? Independent Registered Dental Hygienists are Dental Hygienists who choose to work outside a dentist-owned practice. We are your specialists in dental prevention! Dental Hygienists focus is the latest research, products and methods to ensure their clients can prevent dental problems and keep their teeth for life. Independent Dental Hygiene started in 2007 and currently all new Registered Dental Hygienists in Ontario are able to practice in any practice setting they choose – independent, dentist-owned, hygienist-owned, public health, retirement and nursing homes.

What services do you provide as a Dental Hygienist? I offer a range of services including:

• Complete assessments and recommendations about possible future problems and how to prevent these in a way that meets your needs and lifestyle
• Teeth cleanings
• Periodontal and implant care
• Stain removal and ‘white spot’ removal
• Treatments to prevent and treat cavities and periodontal disease
• Referrals to trusted dentists, orthodontists, oral surgeons, and periodontists, for treatments outside of dental maintenance.
• Whitening – take-home and in-office
• Mouthguards – custom fit
• Bacterial and pH Testing
• Non-fluoride and natural ingredient options

Are teeth cleanings the only service you provide? No. We are a full-service Dental Hygiene clinic. You may find options here you may not have encountered in your dentist-owned office. Over the last 40 years Dental Hygienists have become your prevention specialists, and being independent has allowed me to offer the best new products available to help you maintain your teeth for life.

What is the difference between teeth cleaning and periodontal care? Teeth cleaning is a preventive measure to remove plaque and tartar, while periodontal care involves addressing gum disease and preventing further complications, such as bone loss. Appointments at a periodontal office can become expensive. Dental hygiene fees are lower and Preventive Dental Hygiene Care can include no-needle 30 minute freezing, gentle removal of bacteria and toxins with a gel rinse, and comfort and healing is encouraged with topical Gengigel.

Can you perform fillings and major dental work? While I focus on preventive and non-invasive treatments, such as cleanings and periodontal care, I do also perform;

• sealants to prevent decay,
• small fillings after antibacterial silver diamine fluoride treatment,
• treatment to remove bright white spots,
• smooth or repair chips.

I do not treat large deep lesions or breaks or provide major dental work. For such procedures, it is important to consult with a dentist.

What is holistic dental care? Holistic care means treating you as a whole person, and not just you as your teeth and mouth. To some it also means the use of more natural ingredients. Preventive Dental Hygiene Care offers both. We offer treatments based on your needs – whether they be affordability, to help with dental anxiety, to improve your self-image, to improve your overall health, to find effective natural dental products, to find dental care that works for you in your lifestyle, we are here to help you with your long-term oral health.

How can I submit my treatment to my insurance company? Your treatment can be submitted by us directly to your insurance company, similar to a dental office. It is helpful for you to understand your coverage details however, as we do not have full access to your private insurance information. Most insurances allow for an exam, polish, and fluoride on a monthly schedule, while there is an allotted amount of hours of cleaning time, you may divide up over the year. We are committed to helping you navigate the insurance process and ensuring a seamless experience.

How do you address risk factors for dental issues? During your initial assessment, more time is dedicated to assessing and addressing your individual risk factors. Are you at risk for ongoing cavities in the next few years? Are there food traps that can potentially lead to tooth loss if not addressed? Are breathing issues or dry mouth causing you excess deposits? Is acidic saliva making your teeth sensitive? I provide personalized recommendations, and targeted home care products and methods to lower theses risks.

Can you help with bleeding gums and periodontal bone loss? Yes, our services are designed to address bleeding gums and halt periodontal bone loss. Dental hygiene fees are lower and Preventive Dental Hygiene Care can include no-needle 30 minute freezing, gentle removal of bacteria and toxins with a gel rinse, and comfort and healing is encouraged with topical Gengigel.

How can I schedule an appointment with you? To schedule an appointment simply give us a call, or click the link to book online. To inquire further about our services, please contact us by phone or email. I look forward to helping you achieve optimal oral health with our thorough, caring, and gentle approach.