Going to a dentist after a long time can be scary. It is normal to feel nervous if you have not had a check-up in a while. The good news is that the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is here to help people get the oral health care they need. If you are a member, your next visit to a dentist in Wetaskiwin will be much easier. Here is a simple guide on what to expect and how to get ready.
Checking Your Canadian Dental Care Plan Eligibility
Before booking an appointment, make sure everything is ready with your coverage. Canadian Dental Care Plan eligibilitydepends on several factors, such as your family income and whether you already have private insurance.
Once you are accepted into the program, you will receive a member card. Keep this card in a safe place. When calling a dental clinic, ask if they accept CDCP patients. Not every clinic uses the plan, so it is best to check first.
What Happens During the First Visit?
When a patient has not seen a professional in years, the first appointment is usually about looking and learning. The dental team needs to see what is happening inside the mouth.
The Dental Exam
The dentist will use a small mirror to examine each tooth. They check for caries, the medical term for cavities or tooth decay. Dentist also examine the gums for redness or swelling, which could be a sign of gingivitis.
Taking X-rays
Since it has been a long time, the team will likely take radiographs (X-rays). These pictures show the roots of the teeth and the jawbone. They help detect problems the eye cannot see, such as infections or bone loss.
Checking the Gums
A provider might use a tiny tool to measure the space between the teeth and the gums. This is called periodontal probing. It helps the team know if the gums are healthy or if there is gum disease.
Getting a Professional Cleaning
After the exam, a dental hygienist usually cleans the teeth. When someone misses many appointments, a hard substance called calculus (also known as tartar) builds up. Brushing at home cannot remove calculus.
The hygienist uses special tools to scrape this away. This process is called scaling. After scaling, they will polish the teeth to make them smooth and shiny. This helps prevent new bacteria from sticking to the surface.
Talking About a Treatment Plan
If the dentist finds a problem, they will talk about a “treatment plan.” It might include:
- Fillings to fix cavities.
- Extractions if a tooth is too broken to save.
- Root canal therapy is used when an infection is deep inside a tooth.
The CDCP in Wetaskiwin covers many of these services, but it is important to ask the clinic for a “pre-determination.” This explains how much the plan will pay and if any cost-sharing is required.
Tips for a Great Visit
- Be Honest: Tell the team it has been a long time. They are there to help, not to judge.
- Bring Your ID: Have your CDCP card and a photo ID ready.
- Ask Questions: If a medical word sounds confusing, ask the dentist to explain it.
Looking For A Dental Clinic That Can Care For Teeth And Comfortably?
Wetaskiwin Family Dental provides general dental care for patients of all ages, including check-ups, cleaning and more. Our dentist focuses on keeping teeth and gums healthy with preventive treatment and regular exams. We also help with tooth pain, decay, and other common dental concerns using safe methods and modern dental tools.
Call Wetaskiwin Family Dental today to book an appointment.
FAQ
Does the CDCP pay for everything at the dentist?
The plan covers many services, such as cleanings, fillings, and X-rays. However, some patients might have to pay a small portion of the cost depending on their income level. Always ask the clinic for a cost estimate before the work starts.
How do I find a dentist near you that takes CDCP?
You can check the official Sun Life website or call local dental clinic to find out whether they are registered providers for the Canadian Dental Care Plan.
How long will the first appointment take?
Because the team needs to do a full exam and take X-rays, plan to be at the office for about 60 to 90 minutes.
What if I need a lot of dental work?
The dentist will help you prioritize. They will fix the most painful or urgent problems first and schedule the rest for later dates.