The honest answer is that not every dental problem requires same-day care. But some situations absolutely do, and waiting too long can turn a manageable issue into a serious, costly complication. As an emergency dentist serving the North York community, I want to help you understand the difference so you can make confident, informed decisions when it matters most.

What Makes Something a True Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation involving severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, risk of infection, or trauma to the teeth and mouth. These situations require prompt attention from an emergency dentist, ideally within hours, not days.

The key factors that define a true emergency are:

• Severe or worsening pain that over-the-counter medication cannot control
• Uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth or gums
• Swelling in the jaw, face, or neck (which can signal a spreading infection)
• A knocked-out or partially dislodged tooth
• A lost or broken restoration that exposes a nerve or causes sharp pain
• Signs of abscess or infection, including fever, pus, or a bad taste in the mouth

If you’re experiencing any of these, contact an emergency dentist immediately. At Dentistry in Motion, located at the Lawrence Allen Centre in North York, we prioritize urgent cases and work to see patients as quickly as possible.

Common Dental Emergencies and What to Do

Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth is one of the most time-sensitive dental emergencies. According to the American Association of Endodontists, a tooth that is re-implanted within 30 minutes has the highest chance of survival. After an hour, the odds drop significantly.

If a tooth gets knocked out, here’s what to do right away:

1. Pick up the tooth by the crown (the white part), not the root
2. Rinse it gently with water if it’s dirty, but do not scrub it
3. Try to place it back in the socket if possible, or keep it moist in milk or saliva
4. Call your emergency dentist immediately and head to the clinic

Time is the critical factor here. Every minute counts.

Dental Abscess or Severe Infection

A dental abscess is a pocket of infection that forms at the root of a tooth or in the surrounding gum tissue. It’s one of the most serious dental emergencies because the infection can spread to the jaw, neck, and even the brain if left untreated.

Symptoms of a dental abscess include:

• Throbbing, persistent toothache
• Swelling in the face or jaw
• Fever or chills
• A pimple-like bump on the gums
• Sensitivity to hot and cold
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing (seek emergency medical care immediately if this occurs)

Do not wait to see if an abscess resolves on its own. It won’t. This is a situation where seeing an emergency dentist the same day is essential.

Broken or Cracked Tooth

A broken tooth ranges from minor (a small chip with no pain) to severe (a crack that exposes the nerve). If your tooth is cracked and causing sharp pain, sensitivity, or bleeding, that’s an emergency. Rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and call your dentist right away.

A small cosmetic chip with no pain can typically wait for a scheduled appointment.

Lost or Broken Dental Restoration

A lost filling or crown can expose sensitive tooth structure and cause significant discomfort. While not always an emergency, it becomes one when:

• The exposed area is causing severe pain
• A sharp edge is cutting your tongue or cheek
• The tooth feels structurally unstable

Dental cement from a pharmacy can provide temporary relief, but you should still contact your emergency dentist as soon as possible.

Uncontrolled Bleeding

Bleeding after a tooth extraction is normal for the first 30 to 60 minutes. If bleeding continues beyond that, or if you experience spontaneous gum bleeding that won’t stop, contact your emergency dentist. Apply firm pressure with clean gauze while you wait.

What Can Wait for a Regular Appointment?

Not every dental concern needs same-day care. These situations are uncomfortable but generally not emergencies:

• A mild toothache without swelling or fever
• A small chip that isn’t causing pain
• A lost filling with no sensitivity
• A broken wire on braces (cover the sharp end with wax)
• Mild gum sensitivity

When in doubt, call your dentist and describe your symptoms. A quick phone conversation can help you determine whether you need urgent care or can safely wait.

Why Delaying Emergency Dental Treatment Is Risky

This is something I see regularly as an emergency dentist: patients who waited too long and ended up with a far more complex problem. What starts as a manageable infection can spread to surrounding teeth and bone. A cracked tooth left untreated can fracture completely, requiring extraction instead of a simple restoration.

The Canadian Dental Association notes that untreated dental infections can become life-threatening when they spread beyond the mouth. Swelling that affects the airway is a medical emergency requiring immediate hospital care.

Beyond the health risks, delaying treatment almost always increases cost. A tooth that could have been saved with a root canal may need to be extracted and replaced with an implant, which is significantly more expensive and time-consuming.

Acting quickly protects your health, your smile, and your wallet.

How Your Emergency Dentist at Dentistry in Motion Can Help

At Dentistry in Motion in North York, we understand that dental emergencies don’t follow a schedule. That’s why we offer extended hours (Monday through Thursday 9am to 7pm, Friday and Saturday 9am to 3pm) to make urgent care as accessible as possible.

When you call us with an emergency, we’ll ask about your symptoms, give you guidance on what to do right away, and get you in as quickly as we can. Our goal is to relieve your pain, address the underlying problem, and protect your long-term oral health.

If you’re dealing with a dental emergency in North York, don’t wait. Call Dentistry in Motion at 416.785.7619 or email us at secure@dentistryinmotion.com. We’re here when you need us most.

Dentistry in Motion is located at the Lawrence Allen Centre, 700 Lawrence Ave W #206, North York, ON M6A 3A5.

Let me explain the common causes of tooth sensitivity, what professional treatments work best, and how you can manage sensitivity at home for lasting relief.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity happens when the inner layer of your tooth, called dentin, becomes exposed. Dentin contains tiny tubes that connect to the nerve inside your tooth. When hot, cold, sweet, or acidic substances reach these tubes, they trigger pain signals.

Several conditions can lead to dentin exposure. Understanding which one affects you is the first step toward finding relief.

Enamel Erosion

Enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth. When it wears away, the softer dentin underneath becomes vulnerable. Acidic foods and drinks are major culprits in enamel erosion.

Citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar-based dressings contain acids that soften enamel. Soft drinks, sports drinks, and energy drinks are particularly harmful because they’re both acidic and sugary. Even sparkling water can contribute to erosion if consumed frequently throughout the day.

Acid reflux and frequent vomiting also erode enamel. Stomach acid is extremely corrosive to tooth structure. If you experience regular heartburn or acid reflux, treating the underlying condition protects your teeth.

Aggressive brushing surprisingly causes enamel wear too. Scrubbing with a hard-bristled brush or using too much pressure gradually wears down enamel, especially near the gum line.

Gum Recession

Healthy gums cover tooth roots, which lack the protective enamel found on crowns. When gums recede, these sensitive root surfaces become exposed. Several factors contribute to gum recession.

Gum disease is the leading cause. Bacterial infection damages the gum tissue and bone supporting your teeth. As the disease progresses, gums pull away from teeth, exposing roots.

Brushing too hard can also push gums back over time. Using a sawing motion or pressing firmly while brushing damages delicate gum tissue. Many people don’t realize they’re brushing too aggressively until a dentist at Lawrence Square Mall points out the recession pattern.

Genetics play a role too. Some people naturally have thinner gums that are more prone to recession. Tobacco use accelerates gum recession by reducing blood flow to gum tissue and increasing infection risk.

Teeth Grinding and Clenching

Grinding your teeth, medically called bruxism, wears down enamel over time. Many people grind their teeth during sleep without realizing it. Others clench their jaw during stressful situations throughout the day.

The constant pressure and friction gradually flatten and wear teeth. This exposes dentin and can even cause tiny cracks in enamel that allow temperature and pressure to reach the nerve more easily.

Signs of grinding include waking with jaw pain, headaches, or sore facial muscles. Your dentist at Lawrence Square Mall can identify wear patterns on your teeth that indicate grinding, even if you’re unaware of the habit.

Cavity Formation

Cavities create openings in enamel that expose inner tooth layers. Early cavities may cause sensitivity before they’re visible or cause obvious pain. The decay process creates channels for hot, cold, and sweet substances to reach the nerve.

Even very small cavities can trigger significant sensitivity. That’s why it’s important to address new sensitivity promptly with you’re Dentist at Lawrence Square Mall rather than waiting for it to worsen.

Other Contributing Factors

Recent dental work sometimes causes temporary sensitivity. After fillings, crowns, or teeth cleaning, teeth may feel sensitive for a few days or weeks as they adjust. This usually resolves on its own.

Cracked teeth allow stimuli to reach the inner tooth quickly. Even hairline cracks invisible to the naked eye can cause sharp, localized sensitivity.

Whitening treatments from Dentist at Lawrence Square Mall can temporarily increase sensitivity by opening pores in enamel. This effect is usually short-lived but can be uncomfortable during and immediately after treatment.

Professional Treatments for Sensitive Teeth

At Dentistry in Motion in North York, we offer several effective treatments for tooth sensitivity. The right approach depends on what’s causing your discomfort.

Fluoride Varnishes and Gels

Fluoride strengthens enamel and can block the tiny tubes in exposed dentin. Professional-strength fluoride varnishes contain much higher concentrations than over-the-counter products.

Your dentist at Lawrence Square Mall applies the varnish directly to sensitive areas. It forms a protective coating that reduces sensitivity almost immediately. The treatment takes just minutes and requires no numbing.

Most patients need several applications over weeks or months for lasting relief. The fluoride from Dentist at Lawrence Square Mall continues strengthening enamel between visits, providing cumulative benefits.

Desensitizing Agents

Special desensitizing materials physically seal the open dentin tubes. These products contain compounds like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride that block pain transmission.

We apply these agents in the office, similar to fluoride treatments. Some products require multiple applications for maximum effect. Others provide immediate relief that improves over several weeks.

Desensitizing agents work especially well for sensitivity caused by gum recession. They protect exposed root surfaces that can’t be strengthened with fluoride alone.

Dental Bonding

When sensitivity affects specific teeth or small areas, dental bonding provides targeted protection. We apply tooth-coloured composite resin to cover exposed dentin, particularly on root surfaces near the gum line.

Bonding creates a physical barrier between sensitive areas and temperature changes or pressure. It also improves appearance by covering darker root surfaces that show when gums recede.

The procedure is quick and comfortable. We roughen the tooth surface slightly, apply the bonding material, shape it, and harden it with a special light. No drilling or numbing is typically needed.

Bonding lasts several years and can be repaired or replaced if it wears or chips. It’s one of the most effective treatments for localized sensitivity.

Gum Grafts

Severe gum recession sometimes requires surgical treatment. A gum graft takes tissue from the roof of your mouth or uses donor tissue to cover exposed roots.

This procedure provides permanent protection for sensitive root surfaces. It also prevents further recession and improves smile aesthetics when receding gums create an uneven appearance.

Gum grafts are typically recommended when recession is advanced or progressing rapidly. Your dentist at Lawrence Square Mall can refer you to a periodontist (gum specialist) if grafting is needed.

Root Canal Therapy

When sensitivity is severe and unresponsive to other treatments, the nerve inside the tooth may be irreversibly damaged. In these cases, root canal therapy eliminates the source of pain.

Root canals have an undeserved reputation for being painful. Modern techniques and anesthesia make the procedure quite comfortable. Most patients report immediate relief once the inflamed nerve is removed.

After root canal treatment, the tooth is restored with a crown. The tooth continues functioning normally but no longer experiences sensitivity.

Night Guards for Grinding

If teeth grinding causes your sensitivity, a custom night guard protects your teeth while you sleep. These guards cushion your teeth and prevent the grinding and clenching that wears enamel.

We create guards from impressions of your teeth for a perfect, comfortable fit. Most patients adjust to wearing them within a few nights. The protection they provide can prevent years of additional damage.

At-Home Care Strategies to Reduce Sensitivity

Professional treatment provides significant relief, but your daily habits play an equally important role in managing tooth sensitivity.

Proper Brushing Techniques

How you brush matters as much as how often you brush. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure. Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line and use small circular motions rather than back-and-forth scrubbing.

Electric toothbrushes with pressure sensors help prevent aggressive brushing. These brushes alert you when you’re pressing too hard, protecting your enamel and gums.

Brush twice daily for two minutes each time. Wait at least 30 minutes after eating or drinking acidic foods before brushing. Acid temporarily softens enamel, and brushing immediately after can remove more enamel than necessary.

Choosing the Right Toothpaste

Desensitizing toothpaste specifically formulated for sensitive teeth can provide significant relief. These products contain compounds that block sensation in the nerve or seal dentin tubes.

Popular active ingredients include potassium nitrate, stannous fluoride, and strontium acetate. Each works slightly differently, so if one brand doesn’t help after two weeks, try another with a different active ingredient.

Use desensitizing toothpaste consistently. It takes several days to a few weeks to notice improvement. For extra relief, apply a small amount directly to sensitive areas and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing.

Avoid whitening toothpastes if you have sensitivity. These products are more abrasive and can worsen the problem. Once your sensitivity improves, your dentist at Lawrence Square Mall can recommend safe whitening options.

Dietary Modifications

Limiting acidic foods and drinks reduces enamel erosion. When you do consume acidic items, use these strategies to minimize damage.

Drink acidic beverages through a straw positioned toward the back of your mouth. This reduces contact with your front teeth. Rinse your mouth with water immediately after consuming acidic foods or drinks to neutralize acids quickly.

Eat acidic foods as part of meals rather than sipping or snacking throughout the day. Your saliva naturally neutralizes acids, but constant exposure overwhelms this protective mechanism.

Balance acidic foods with calcium-rich options like cheese or milk. Calcium helps neutralize acids and provides minerals that strengthen enamel. tips from your Dentist at Lawrence Square Mall.

Fluoride Rinses

Over-the-counter fluoride rinses provide additional enamel protection between dental visits. Use these rinses daily, swishing for one minute before spitting out. Don’t rinse with water afterward to allow the fluoride to continue working.

Fluoride rinses from Dentist at Lawrence Square Mall are especially helpful if you’re prone to cavities or have multiple areas of sensitivity. They’re inexpensive and easy to incorporate into your routine.

Managing Dry Mouth

Saliva protects teeth by neutralizing acids and providing minerals that strengthen enamel. Dry mouth increases sensitivity risk and accelerates decay.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production. Avoid alcohol-containing mouthwashes that dry your mouth further.

If medications cause dry mouth, ask your doctor about alternatives. Your dentist at Lawrence Square Mall can also recommend special products designed to combat dry mouth.

When to Seek Professional Help

Mild sensitivity that improves with desensitizing toothpaste may not require immediate professional attention. However, certain situations warrant a dental visit.

See your dentist at Lawrence Square Mall if sensitivity persists beyond two weeks of using desensitizing toothpaste. Sudden or severe sensitivity, especially in a single tooth, might indicate a cavity or crack requiring treatment.

Sensitivity accompanied by other symptoms like swelling, bleeding gums, or visible damage needs prompt evaluation. Pain that keeps you awake or prevents you from eating normally shouldn’t be ignored.

Regular checkups fromDentist at Lawrence Square Mall allow early detection of problems before they cause significant sensitivity. At Dentistry in Motion, located in the Lawrence Allen Centre at 700 Lawrence Ave W, Unit 206 in North York, we examine for early signs of enamel wear, gum recession, and other issues that lead to sensitivity.

Taking Control of Tooth Sensitivity

Living with tooth sensitivity doesn’t have to be your normal. Understanding what causes your discomfort is the first step toward finding relief. Professional treatments combined with smart at-home care can significantly reduce or eliminate sensitivity for most people.

Whether your sensitivity stems from enamel erosion, gum recession, grinding, or another cause, effective solutions exist. The key is addressing the problem rather than simply avoiding triggers.

Ready to find relief from tooth sensitivity? Contact Dentistry in Motion at 416.785.7619 or email secure@dentistryinmotion.com. We’re conveniently located at the Lawrence Allen Centre in North York and open Monday through Thursday from 9am to 7pm, and Friday and Saturday from 9am to 3pm.

Your dentist at Lawrence Square Mall is here to help you enjoy hot coffee, cold treats, and everything in between without pain. Let’s work together to identify what’s causing your sensitivity and create a personalized treatment plan that brings lasting comfort.

Gum disease affects nearly 70% of Canadian adults at some point in their lives, according to the Canadian Dental Association. The good news? It’s largely preventable and treatable when caught early. At Dentistry in Motion, located at the Lawrence Allen Centre in North York, we specialize in helping patients maintain healthy gums through education, prevention, and effective treatment options.

Recognizing the Early Warning Signs of Gum Disease

Catching gum disease early makes all the difference. Gingivitis, the earliest stage, is completely reversible with proper care. However, if left untreated, it progresses to periodontitis, which causes permanent damage to the bone and tissues supporting your teeth.

Watch for these warning signs:

• Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Receding gum lines that make teeth appear longer
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Pus between teeth and gums
• Changes in your bite or how dentures fit

Many patients dismiss bleeding gums as normal, but healthy gums should never bleed. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist at Lawrence and Allen right away. Early detection prevents the need for more invasive treatments later. Tips from your Dentist at Lawrence and Allen.

Understanding Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis

Gingivitis is the mild, early form of gum disease. It occurs when plaque buildup irritates the gum tissue, causing inflammation. At this stage, the infection hasn’t affected the bone or connective tissues yet. With professional cleaning and improved home care, gingivitis can be completely reversed.

Periodontitis develops when gingivitis goes untreated. The infection spreads below the gum line, creating pockets between teeth and gums. Bacteria thrive in these pockets, destroying bone and tissue. Research published in the Journal of Periodontology shows that untreated periodontitis increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes complications, and respiratory infections.

The progression from gingivitis to periodontitis can happen quickly, which is why regular dental visits are essential. At Dentistry in Motion, we screen every patient for gum disease during routine checkups. Tips from your Dentist at Lawrence and Allen.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options at Your Dentist at Lawrence and Allen

Most cases of gum disease can be treated without surgery. We focus on conservative, effective approaches that restore gum health and prevent disease progression.

Scaling and Root Planing

This deep cleaning procedure is the gold standard for treating gum disease. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing smooths the tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to reattach and allowing gums to heal properly.

The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic for your comfort. Most patients need two to four appointments, depending on the extent of the disease. After treatment, gum pockets shrink, bleeding stops, and inflammation resolves.

Antimicrobial Treatments

We may recommend antimicrobial mouth rinses or antibiotic gels placed directly into gum pockets. These treatments help control bacterial infection and support healing after scaling and root planing.

Ongoing Maintenance

After initial treatment, regular periodontal maintenance cleanings (typically every three to four months) keep gum disease under control. These appointments allow us to monitor your progress and address any problem areas before they worsen. Tips from your Dentist at Lawrence and Allen.

Daily Oral Hygiene Practices That Prevent Gum Disease

Prevention is always better than treatment. Your daily habits play the biggest role in keeping your gums healthy.

Proper Brushing Technique

Brush twice daily for two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use gentle, circular motions. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can damage gum tissue and cause recession.

Electric toothbrushes with pressure sensors are excellent for patients prone to brushing too hard. Replace your toothbrush or brush head every three months.

Effective Flossing

Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. Use about 18 inches of floss, wrapping it around your fingers. Gently slide it between teeth, curving it around each tooth in a C-shape. Move the floss up and down, going slightly below the gum line.

If traditional floss is difficult, try floss picks, interdental brushes, or water flossers. The best tool is the one you’ll actually use consistently. Your Dentist at Lawrence and Allen.

Additional Prevention Tips

• Use an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash daily
• Avoid tobacco products, which significantly increase gum disease risk
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and D
• Manage stress, which can weaken your immune system
• Stay hydrated to support saliva production
• Visit your dentist at Lawrence and Allen every six months for professional cleanings

Why Choose Dentistry in Motion for Gum Disease Care

Our team at Dentistry in Motion understands that gum disease can feel overwhelming. We take time to explain your diagnosis, answer your questions, and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and schedule.

Located conveniently at 700 Lawrence Ave W in North York, we offer flexible hours (Monday through Thursday 9am to 7pm, Friday and Saturday 9am to 3pm) to accommodate busy schedules. Our gentle approach and modern techniques ensure comfortable, effective care. Your Dentist at Lawrence and Allen.

Take Action Today

Gum disease won’t improve on its own. The longer you wait, the more complex and costly treatment becomes. If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, bad breath, or any other warning signs, don’t delay.

Call us Your Dentist at Lawrence and Allen at 416.785.7619 or email secure@dentistryinmotion.com to schedule your comprehensive gum health evaluation. Our team is ready to help you achieve and maintain healthy gums for life.

Your smile deserves the best care. As your dedicated dentist at Lawrence and Allen, we’re committed to protecting your oral health with compassionate, expert treatment. Let’s work together to keep your gums healthy and your smile strong.

While some products, including water irrigation devices (or “water picks”), may be useful for specific applications, they may not be as effective as traditional flossing in the removal of plaque.

Water picks use powerful tiny bursts of water to blast away food particles and other debris in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. Dentists use professional-grade water picks when preparing a tooth for restoration, or in general cleaning and exams.

People with painful gum disease or highly sensitive gums may find water picks useful for supplementing their brushing regimen. People with orthodontia, including braces, have found water picks quite useful because toothbrush bristles often get stuck.

A type of material called dental tape can be effective for people with large spaces between their teeth, or for people with bridge work.

Floss can be purchased in small self-dispensing boxes. Floss can also be purchased in special, single-use holders, which are useful for people who have a hard time wrapping floss around their fingers, including those with dexterity problems or arthritis.

There are many high-quality products on the market today. There also are many products of dubious value.

Whatever over-the-counter dental product you buy, it is strongly advised that you ensure it has the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance.

Over-the-counter dental instruments are fraught with danger. These include scaling devices and picks. Use of the products, even when following the instructions, can put your teeth and the soft tissue of your mouth at risk of tearing, bruising and other injury. You also may accidentally chip a tooth.

It is best to consult our office instead of trying to do a repair job yourself.

A helmet can prevent serious injuries such as concussions, cerebral hemorrhages, incidents of unconsciousness, jaw fractures and neck injuries by helping to avoid situations where the lower jaw gets jammed into the upper jaw.   Mouth guards are effective in moving soft tissue in the oral cavity away from the teeth, preventing laceration and bruising of the lips and cheeks, especially for those who wear orthodontic appliances.

Mouth protectors, which typically cover the upper teeth, can cushion a blow to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth. If you wear braces or another fixed dental appliance on your lower jaw, a mouth protector is available for these teeth as well.

A properly fitted mouth protector may be especially important for people who wear braces or have fixed bridge work. A blow to the face could damage the brackets or other fixed orthodontic appliances. A mouth protector also provides a barrier between the braces and your cheek or lips, limiting the risk of soft tissue injuries. Although mouth protectors typically only cover the upper teeth, your dentist or orthodontist may suggest that you use a mouth protector on the lower teeth if you have braces on these teeth too. If you have a retainer or other removable appliance, do not wear it during any contact sports.

Types of mouth guards

There are three types of mouth protectors:

• • Stock – Inexpensive and come pre-formed, ready to wear. Unfortunately, they often don’t fit very well. They can be bulky and can make breathing and talking difficult.

• • Boil and bite – Can be bought at many sporting goods stores and may offer a better fit than stock mouth protectors. They should be softened in water, then inserted and allowed to adapt to the shape of your mouth. If you don’t follow the directions carefully you can wind up with a poor-fitting mouth protector.

• • Custom-fitted – Made by your dentist for you personally. They are more expensive than the other versions, but because they are customized, they can offer a better fit than anything you can buy off the shelf.

Mechanical and manual toothbrushes

Our dental team highly recommends a mechanical (electric) toothbrush. The pulsations break up plaque efficiently. Many models now have timers to remind you to brush longer.

It is always nice to have a backup manual toothbrush. When choosing a manual toothbrush, look for a compact head with very soft, rounded bristles.

• You have a right to choose your own dentist and schedule an appointment in a timely manner.
• You have a right to know the education and training of your dentist and the dental care team.
• You have a right to arrange to see the dentist every time you receive dental treatment, subject to any state law exceptions.
• You have a right to adequate time to ask questions and receive answers regarding your dental condition and treatment plan for your care.
• You have a right to know what the dental team feels is the optimal treatment plan as well as the right to ask for alternative treatment options.
• You have a right to an explanation of the purpose, probably (short and long-term) results, alternatives, and risks involved before consenting to a proposed treatment plan.
• You have a right to be informed of continuing health care needs.
• You have a right to know in advance the expected cost of treatment.
• You have a right to accept, defer, or decline any part of your treatment recommendations.
• You have a right to reasonable arrangements for dental care and emergency treatment.
• You have a right to receive considerate, respectful, and confidential treatment by your dentist and dental team.
• You have a right to expect the dental team members to use appropriate infection and sterilization controls.
• You have a right to inquire about the availability of processes to mediate disputes about your treatment.

(Adopted by the American Dental Association in 2009)

Your Responsibilities as a Patient

• You have the responsibility to provide, to the best of your ability, accurate, honest, and complete information about your medical history and current health status.
• You have the responsibility to report changes in your medical status and provide feedback about your needs and expectations.
• You have the responsibility to participate in your health care decisions and ask questions if you are uncertain about your dental treatment or plan.
• You have the responsibility to inquire about your treatment options and acknowledge the benefits and limitations of any treatment that you choose.
• You have the responsibility for consequences resulting from declining treatment or from not following the agreed-upon treatment plan.
• You have the responsibility to keep your scheduled appointments.
• You have the responsibility to be available for treatment upon reasonable notice.
• You have the responsibility to adhere to regular home oral health care recommendations.
• You have the responsibility to ensure that your financial obligations for health care received are fulfilled.

(Adopted by the American Dental Association in 2009)

American Dental Association Leads Fight for Patient Rights

The American Dental Association has supported legislation that will set a few basic rules to promote high-quality care and protect patients in an increasingly bottom-line-driven health care system.

ADA-member dentists have been instrumental in moving the patients’ rights issue into the national spotlight. The nation appears closer than ever to finally seeing a comprehensive patient’ bill of rights passed into law.

While Congress debates various versions of patient rights legislation, the insurance and managed care industries have long supported legislation that would fail to protect all privately insured Americans against unfair delays and denials of coverage by their health plans, according to the ADA. Some ill-fated bills left out critical protections, such as guaranteeing people the option of choosing their own doctors or creating mechanisms to address patients’ grievances against health plans. One proposal even omitted freestanding dental plans, which could have left more than 120 million dental patients without these vital protections.

The American Dental Association continues to lobby for the enactment of bipartisan legislation to help ensure that health plans treat patients fairly and do not discriminate against dentists. Here are some of the key issues identified by the ADA:

• Coverage for freestanding dental plans, which account for the vast majority of Americans who have dental coverage.
• Patient choice, by guaranteeing access to at least one plan with a point-of-service option that allows patients the opportunity to choose their own doctors.
• Health plan accountability, through the availability of impartial, external review and by holding plans accountable when their decisions to delay or deny care harm patients.

Making sound decisions about your dental care and oral health is an easy thing to do with the right preparation beforehand:

• Make a list of questions to ask our office, so you don’t forget anything on the day of your appointment. This includes any concerns you have, or oral problems you’ve been experiencing.
• If you have dental insurance, remember to bring your insurance card with you.