Patient Information

What to Bring and What to Expect at Your First Dental Visit

At our Mississauga dental clinic, we’re committed to making your first visit smooth, informative, and stress-free. Whether you’re bringing your child in for their first dental check-up or coming in for your own comprehensive exam, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

What to Expect During Your First Appointment

Your initial visit will include a complete oral health assessment, a detailed review of your medical and dental history, and a dental exam. In many cases, your visit will also include a professional cleaning by our hygienist. We’ll take time to understand your needs, answer any questions, and create a personalized treatment plan based on your goals and oral health.

We encourage you to think about any specific concerns you’d like to address ahead of time—whether it’s tooth sensitivity, cosmetic goals, or general dental anxiety—so we can make sure everything is covered during your consultation.

In some instances, same-day treatment may be possible depending on the nature of your dental needs.

What to Bring to Your Dental Appointment

To help us serve you efficiently and accurately, please bring the following:

• Valid ID and insurance information
  Include your provider’s name, policy/group number, and your subscriber ID or certificate number.

• List of current medications
  Include any over-the-counter supplements or prescriptions, even if they’re unrelated to dental care.

• Details of past dental work
  Let us know about crowns, fillings, surgeries, or other procedures you’ve had.

• Any recent x-rays
  If you’ve had dental x-rays within the past 6 months, ask your previous provider to send them to our Mississauga office. If needed, we can take updated digital radiographs in-house.

• Completed Patient History Form
  You can fill this out in advance or complete it when you arrive. This form ensures we have accurate, up-to-date records to support your care.

Note: Patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian during their first appointment.

Insurance Support

Our administrative team is happy to help with insurance processing. After each visit, we’ll submit your dental claim directly to your insurer whenever possible. To streamline this process, be sure to bring complete and current insurance details to your first appointment.

Do I Really Need to Floss?
Yes! Flossing is essential to remove plaque and food debris between teeth—where toothbrushes can’t reach. Without flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, contributing to gum disease and cavities.

Do I Need X-Rays at Every Dental Visit?
Not always. The need for dental x-rays depends on your oral health history and risk of dental issues. Patients with stable dental health may only need x-rays every 1–2 years, while those with higher risk may need them more often.

Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
Modern digital x-rays use minimal radiation and are considered very safe. At Proxima Dental, we only take x-rays when clinically necessary and always prioritize your safety.

How Often Should I Be Screened for Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer screenings are recommended every 3 years for adults over 20 and annually for those over 40. Early detection greatly improves treatment success.

How Can I Keep My Teeth White?
Limit coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking—all common stain-causers. Maintain good brushing habits and eat crunchy fruits and vegetables. Professional whitening options are also available at our Mississauga office.

Why Does My Dentist Need My Medications and Supplements List?
Knowing your medications helps us prevent adverse reactions and ensure safe dental care. Some medications can affect bleeding, healing, or interact with dental treatments.

What Are the Early Warning Signs of Gum Disease?
Watch for bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum soreness, or sensitivity. These symptoms could indicate gingivitis or early periodontal issues and should be checked promptly.

Can I Drink Coffee Before My Dental Appointment?
If you experience dental anxiety, it’s best to avoid caffeinated coffee before your visit. Opt for decaf or herbal tea instead to help stay relaxed.

What Should I Look for When Choosing a Dentist?
Look for a dental office that fits your schedule, is conveniently located, clean, and welcoming. A good dentist will listen to your concerns and take time to explain your options.

How Should I Approach a Dental Treatment I Don’t Understand?
Always ask questions! A trustworthy dental office will gladly explain procedures, costs, alternatives, timelines, and expected outcomes. Don’t hesitate to follow up by phone if questions come up later.

What’s the Difference Between In-Office and At-Home Teeth Whitening?
In-office whitening is faster and more effective, using professional-grade materials. At-home kits take longer and may not fit well, potentially causing sensitivity. Custom trays from your dentist offer a safer and more even result.

Do I Need to See the Dentist Every 6 Months?
For most patients, biannual checkups help catch issues early and keep your mouth healthy. Your dentist may recommend more or fewer visits based on your individual oral health needs.

What If I Don’t Have Insurance or Can’t Afford Dental Care?
At Proxima Dental, we offer flexible payment plans and can help you explore cost-saving options. You may also qualify for assistance through community health programs or student dental clinics.

When Should I Take My Child to the Dentist?
Children should see a dentist by their first birthday or within 6 months of their first tooth coming in. Early visits establish healthy habits and catch issues early.

Do Dentists Need to Wear Gloves and Masks?
Yes. Our team follows strict infection control protocols, including gloves, masks, and sterilization, to protect your health and safety at every visit.

Can I Get a Copy of My Dental Records?
Absolutely. You have the right to request copies of your dental charts, x-rays, and treatment notes. Just contact our administrative team and we’ll guide you through the process.

How Do I Transfer My Dental Records to a New Dentist?
Records legally belong to the clinic that created them, but we can send a copy to your new provider upon request. You may need to sign a release form, and a small administrative fee may apply.

How Do I Choose a Cosmetic Dentist?
Look for a dentist with experience in cosmetic procedures like veneers, bonding, and implants. Ask to see before-and-after photos, read reviews, and make sure they offer a personalized consultation to discuss your smile goals.

Proxima Dental Accepts the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)

At Proxima Dental, we’re now welcoming patients who qualify for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)—a national initiative created to support Canadians without access to private dental insurance.

Please note that while we accept CDCP patients, our practice follows the standard fee guide used in Ontario, not the CDCP-specific pricing. This may result in a difference between your plan’s reimbursement and our service fees, depending on your income bracket and the type of care received.

We work directly with Sun Life, the official claims processor for the CDCP, and can accept payment from them for covered services. Any portion of your treatment not covered by the plan is your responsibility and must be paid at the time of your appointment.

Because CDCP eligibility and coverage vary based on your household income and other factors, patients are responsible for knowing the details of their plan. For full information, please visit the official Government of Canada dental site.

What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

The CDCP is a federal program offering dental coverage to Canadians without existing dental insurance. It’s aimed at helping low- to moderate-income households access routine dental care, although it is not a free program for all.

Eligibility Highlights:

• Must be a Canadian resident with no private dental benefits
• Must have filed a tax return in the previous year
• Adjusted family net income must be under $90,000

Rollout Schedule:

• Seniors 65+: Enrollments began in December 2023
• Children under 18 & eligible adults with a Disability Tax Credit: Enrollment started June 2024
• All other eligible Canadians: Enrollment opens in 2025

How Do I Know If I’m Eligible?

To qualify for the CDCP, you must:

• Live in Canada
• Have no access to any dental insurance (including from work or school)
• Have an adjusted family income below $90,000
• Have filed taxes for the previous year

Enrollment is by invitation. Eligible individuals will receive a letter from Service Canada when it’s their turn to apply.

For the latest updates, visit this page.

Will the CDCP Fully Cover My Dental Costs?

Not necessarily. Coverage is based on income:

• Under $70,000: 100% coverage
• $70,000–$79,999: 60% covered (40% copayment)
• $80,000–$89,999: 40% covered (60% copayment)

Any difference between the CDCP fee guide and our clinic’s fee schedule is also your responsibility.

Important: If you currently have dental insurance (even if unused), you’re not eligible for the CDCP.

What Dental Services Are Covered?

The CDCP includes a range of services such as:

Preventive Care:

• Exams
• X-rays
• Cleanings
• Fluoride treatments
• Sealants

Basic & Restorative Care:

• Fillings
• Root canals
• Gum therapy (scaling and root planing)

Major Services (with pre-approval):

• Dentures
• Tooth extractions
• Some crowns or surgical procedures
• Oral sedation

Orthodontic coverage will be added in 2025 for patients with specific medical needs.

Can I Drop My Work or School Insurance and Join the CDCP?

No. If you currently have access to dental insurance through:

• An employer or union
• A professional or student group
• A pension plan
• A privately purchased insurance plan

…you are not eligible for the CDCP, even if you don’t use your existing plan.

The government now requires this information to be reported on tax forms (T4/T4A) to ensure only eligible Canadians apply.

Will the CDCP Replace My Work Benefits?

No. The CDCP is designed to help those who don’t have insurance—not to replace existing plans. Employers and dental associations are encouraged to continue offering workplace benefits. If you’re covered, stick with your current plan.

Questions About Coverage?

Please remember:

• We cannot see how much coverage you personally qualify for
• We will bill CDCP directly for eligible services
• You are responsible for any remaining costs at the time of service

For accurate plan details, visit: canada.ca/dental

At Proxima Dental, we’re committed to providing exceptional care while making the financial process as straightforward as possible. Before starting any treatment, we’ll review the costs involved and go over payment arrangements so you can feel confident moving forward.

Whenever possible, we will submit claims directly to your dental insurance provider. Please note that any portion not covered by your plan is your responsibility and must be paid at the time of your visit.

We accept most major insurance plans, and for your convenience, we also accept payments by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, debit, and cheque.

Digital X-Rays
Our digital x-ray technology reduces radiation exposure by up to 70% compared to traditional x-rays, offering a safer and more comfortable experience. The high-resolution images make it easier to detect cavities and dental concerns early. Plus, they can be stored electronically and shared easily with specialists for coordinated care.

Panoramic X-Rays
This imaging technique captures a full view of your upper and lower jaws, helping us identify bone issues, impacted teeth, cysts, and other abnormalities. Panoramic x-rays are fast, non-invasive, and more comfortable than traditional methods.

Ceiling-Mounted TVs for Relaxation
To help patients feel at ease, especially children, we offer in-chair entertainment with ceiling-mounted TVs. You can enjoy your favorite shows or movies during treatment, making dental visits more relaxed and enjoyable.

Intraoral Cameras
Intraoral cameras allow us to show you live, detailed images of your teeth and gums on a screen. This helps you better understand your dental condition and make informed decisions about your treatment.

Laser Dentistry
We use dental lasers for procedures such as gum contouring, cavity detection, and whitening treatments. Laser dentistry promotes precision, reduces discomfort, and speeds up recovery time.

3D Cone Beam Imaging
This advanced 3D imaging system offers a complete view of your teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures. It’s especially beneficial when planning dental implants, extractions, or orthodontic treatments.

Intraoral Scanners
Say goodbye to messy impressions. Our digital scanners capture ultra-precise images of your mouth for crowns, bridges, aligners, and more—offering a cleaner, faster, and more comfortable experience.

Air Abrasion Technology
Using a fine stream of particles, air abrasion removes tooth decay gently—often without drilling or needles. It’s an ideal option for patients seeking minimally invasive treatment.

Digital Impressions
Our digital impression systems provide accurate 3D scans of your teeth and soft tissues, improving the precision of restorations like crowns and veneers while eliminating the discomfort of traditional molds.

Modern Root Canal Treatment
With new technology, root canal therapy is faster, more effective, and more comfortable than ever. Enhanced cleaning techniques and modern tools allow us to complete most root canals in a single visit with minimal discomfort.

CAD/CAM Same-Day Restorations
Using CAD/CAM technology, we design and create custom crowns, veneers, and bridges right in our office. You can walk in and leave with a permanent restoration—all in one day.

Sedation Dentistry
For patients who experience anxiety or discomfort during dental visits, sedation dentistry offers a safe and effective way to help you relax throughout your treatment. This option is ideal for those with dental phobias, a sensitive gag reflex, or difficulty sitting through longer procedures. At Proxima Dental, our team is trained to provide gentle care in a calm, supportive environment—so you can feel more at ease and confident about your oral health care.

Tele-Dentistry Consultations
We offer virtual consultations for non-urgent dental issues, follow-ups, and treatment planning. It’s a convenient option for busy patients or those with limited mobility.

Waterlase Dentistry
Waterlase uses a combination of laser energy and water spray to perform a variety of procedures with less discomfort. It’s a gentle, no-drill alternative for treating cavities and soft tissue conditions.

CariVu Cavity Detection
CariVu technology uses advanced light transillumination to detect cracks and cavities—especially in hard-to-see areas between teeth. It’s a valuable complement to traditional x-rays and enhances early diagnosis.