First Dental Visit

On your first visit to Yonge & Merton Dental, a complete oral examination will be performed.

X-rays, impressions of the teeth and photographs will be taken as required, to assist with the diagnosis and formulation of a treatment plan. Upon completion of the examination a treatment plan with appropriate estimates will be provided. Our office staff are here to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your treatment and hope that we can make your visits as relaxing and comfortable as possible.

Good oral health habits should be developed at an early age. Baby teeth begin to erupt and peak through the gums at about 6 months of age. It is recommended that children be seen for their first dental visit at the age of 1 year. The child’s first visit to the office allows the dentist to assess growth and development of the teeth and mouth. This initial screening can also identify any concerns regarding early childhood dental decay and appropriate referrals to paediatric dentists may be arranged if necessary. Experience has shown that these early visits to the dentist lead to the child being accepting of routine dental visits.

The vast majority of our adult population has benefited from the positive effects of fluoridation of our water supply. Most adults in our practice have been able to maintain their teeth, gums and supporting bone in excellent health with the assistance of a program of regular hygiene visits to our office. Unfortunately there still exists a large percentage of the general population that does not see the dentist on a regular basis. It is our focus to assist our patients in maintaining good oral health so that they can keep their teeth for a lifetime. On occasion teeth are lost from accidents and poor dental health. As a result, dental implants are becoming the first choice in the treatment of tooth loss. Dental implants have over the past 30 years of research and development become an excellent treatment option.

Dentistry has changed significantly in the last decade with the development of new materials and techniques giving the dentist more options to improve your smile. Bonding techniques and the use of composite resin and porcelain veneers, allow the dentist to conservatively restore teeth and improve your smile. The bleaching of teeth is an inexpensive, safe and effective treatment that can be accomplished with the assistance of our office.

Tooth decay is not a disease only of children, but is a common and potentially serious problem for seniors. Dry mouth, a common side effect of some medications taken by seniors, can and does lead to tooth decay. Tooth decay in seniors is commonly found on the exposed root of the tooth and along the edges of filling, crowns and bridges.

Periodontal disease is one of the most common health issues in older adults and can contribute in the development of  heart disease, stroke and respiratory problems. Some seniors develop problems with manual dexterity as they age and this can lead to poor maintenance of teeth and gums. It is important that seniors maintain a regular program of dental hygiene visits.