YOUR SMILE, EXPLAINED
Clear explanations of everyday dental care, common treatments and healthy habits for growing smiles.
You don’t need to know all the dental terms.
We’ll explain your options, answer your questions and help you understand the next step.A LOOK INSIDE
Dental anxiety is real, and visiting the dentist can feel overwhelming. We listen to your concerns, explain each step and take things at your pace, helping you feel more comfortable and supported throughout your visit.
01 / COMMON TREATMENTS
A simple starting point—not a treatment plan. Your dentist will explain what is appropriate for your teeth, health and goals.
An exam checks your teeth, gums and mouth for changes. A professional cleaning removes plaque and hardened tartar. Your dentist recommends a visit schedule based on your needs.
Look closely → Clean carefully → Plan your next visit
“What should I focus on between visits?”
A filling repairs an area damaged by a cavity. Your dentist removes decay and restores the tooth with a suitable filling material. The choice depends on the tooth and your needs.
Remove decay → Restore the area
“Which filling material is right for this tooth?”
A crown is a custom-made cover for a damaged or weakened tooth. It helps restore shape and strength, and may be recommended for a broken tooth, a large filling or after root canal treatment.
Prepare the tooth → Fit a protective cover
“Why is a crown being recommended?”
When the soft tissue inside a tooth is infected or injured, root canal treatment can help save the tooth. The inside is cleaned and sealed, then restored with a filling or crown.
Clean inside → Seal → Restore
“How will the tooth be restored afterward?”
Sometimes removing a tooth is the appropriate option. Wisdom teeth may need removal if they cause problems or are likely to. Your dentist assesses your situation and explains the options, risks and recovery.
Assess the tooth → Discuss removal & recovery
“What are my options, and what will recovery involve?”
An implant is an artificial root placed in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth. Treatment involves an assessment and healing time. Your gum health, bone and overall health help determine whether it is suitable.
Assess → Place & heal → Restore
“Am I a suitable candidate, and what are the alternatives?”
Icons are simplified visual guides, not depictions of every step or a promised result.
02 / WHEN SURGERY IS PART OF THE PLAN
Having a tooth removed or an implant placed can feel like a big step. Your dentist will explain your care; some cases need a specialist referral.
Ask why treatment is recommended, what alternatives exist, and which risks and costs apply to you.
Ask how discomfort will be managed and whether you need to arrange a ride home or follow any preparation instructions.
Ask what to expect during recovery, how to care for the area and whom to contact if you are concerned.
03 / LITTLE SMILES
Make caring for teeth a gentle, familiar part of the day—with a grown-up nearby to help.
Meet Dr. Shirley
Brush gently with a small, soft toothbrush for two minutes, twice a day—especially before bed. Help young children reach every tooth.
Start daily flossing when teeth touch. Help until your child can do it well on their own.
For older children, choose water over juice or pop. Offer tooth-friendly snacks such as cheese, plain yogurt and vegetables.
UNDER 3Ask your dentist whether fluoride toothpaste is needed. If recommended, use a rice-grain-sized amount; otherwise brush with water.
AGES 3–6Help your child brush with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Encourage spitting, not swallowing.
Plan a first dental visit by age one, or within six months of the first tooth. Ask about brushing, fluoride and your child’s developing smile.
HALLOWEEN, WITH A LITTLE CARE
Keep brushing and flossing, choose water, and book your next cleaning when you’re due.
Book a cleaningGood to know: This page provides general education, not a diagnosis or personal treatment advice. Care and recovery differ from person to person. Ask your dental team about your own needs.
Content draws on patient information from the Canadian Dental Association, Ontario Dental Association and American Dental Association. Each treatment card links to further reading. Tooth anatomy: ADA tooth anatomy guide. Children’s care: CDA cleaning children’s teeth. More on children’s daily care and dental emergencies, plus the BC Dental Association’s emergency guidance. Last checked: October 2026.
