Frequently Asked Questions

Dental x-rays should be taken according to your individual dental needs. Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend necessary x-rays based on your medical and dental history, history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age, and risk of disease.

Veneers tend to require two visits. Anesthesia is often not required during the procedure. The tooth is prepped by lightly buffing and shaping the surface, which allows for the thickness of the veneer. A mold or impression is taken of the tooth and you will choose a shade or colour for the crown or bridge. On the second visit, your teeth will be cleaned with special liquids to achieve a more durable bond. Bonding cement will then be placed between the tooth and the crown or bridge.

Dental x-rays produce a low-level of radiation and are considered perfectly safe. Radiation can be an intimidating prospect, but it is important to remember that dental x-rays don’t actually expose you to very much. We are exposed to a lot of natural background radiation in everyday life. The amount of radiation you receive from a full mouth series of x-rays is equal to the amount you receive in a day from natural sources. Dentists will also take all precautions necessary to limit your exposure when taking x-rays.

Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment. While your tooth is numb, your dentist will remove any decay as necessary, then will clean the space and carefully prepare it before the new filling is placed.

In-office tooth whitening usually requires two visits – at the first one, impressions will be made of your teeth in order to fabricate custom clear plastic trays. At your second appointment, you will try on the trays to ensure they fit properly. Any adjustments will be made if necessary. The trays are worn twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple weeks, depending on the degree of staining and what shade you’re looking for.