A visit to the dentist is a good time to ask lots of questions. Your dentist wants you to fully understand your treatment options and associated costs before making dental care decisions. It’s also important to ask about the potential consequences of not proceeding with the recommended dental care.
Your dentist will give you an estimate before proceeding with any service. If you have a dental plan, your dentist will often submit a predetermination (proposed treatment) form to your plan so you know what your plan covers before any treatment has begun. If finances are an issue, ask about payment options and the various programs that may be available to you. Understanding the expectations before you proceed makes a world of difference.
It’s difficult for a dentist to tell you what a procedure will cost before they have examined you, because everyone’s dental health and dental care needs are different. You can contact dental offices for fee comparisons for some common services that generally do not vary, such as a recall examination or radiographs (x-rays).
Remember, good dental health care helps limit the amount of time and money you need to spend with your dentist. A good diet and preventive care at home is vital to both your dental health and your overall health.
Oral Health Basics
Tips for Good Oral and Overall Health
Oral health is a huge contributor to your overall health and wellbeing. When you’re experiencing pain, missing teeth, or have an oral infection, it can influence the way you speak, eat, and socialize.
Oral Health Programs
The Government of Alberta has various low-income dental programs for Albertans in financial need without access to dental insurance.
The Canada Dental Benefit for Kids
As of December 1, 2022, eligible families can apply for the interim Canada Dental Benefit for children under 12. The Dental Benefit Act received royal assent on November 17, 2022.
The dental team
Dentists lead a team that is comprised of dental hygienists, dental assistants, and office staff. Learn more about your dental health team.
Understanding Dental Fees
Our dental fee guides increase the transparency of dental costs and procedures.
Help for Low Income Albertans
Learn about the various oral health programs designed to help Albertans who may need support covering the cost of their dental care needs.
Concerns About a Dentist
The Alberta Dental Association is not involved in the regulation of the profession and does not handle complaints about dentists. If you feel you need to place a formal complaint, the College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta provides a fair process to resolve complaints about a dentist.
FAQ
When it comes to your oral health, no one is more qualified than your dentist. From dentures to fluoride, here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions about oral health care.