FAQs
Have inquiries?
Don't hesitate to contact us.
We're eager to hear from you.
Why is Dental Care important?
Good oral health is about more than just a bright smile, it’s a key part of your overall well-being. Studies show that gum disease is linked to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and other inflammatory illnesses. By taking care of your teeth and gums, you’re helping to support your body’s long-term health and vitality.
Our approach to whole-health dentistry
At Coastalview Dental, we believe dentistry should focus on prevention, comfort, and education, not just treatment. Our patient-centred approach looks at the full picture of your oral health, emphasizing early detection, healthy habits, and personalized care.
Most new patients begin with a Comprehensive Oral Exam (COE), a detailed assessment that helps us understand your dental history, identify any concerns, and create a personalized plan to keep your smile healthy for years to come.
I'm a new patient - what should I expect?
Welcome to Coastalview Dental! From the moment you arrive, our friendly team will greet you, review your medical and dental history, and answer any questions you may have.
Our goal is to make your first visit comfortable, informative, and stress-free — ensuring you leave with confidence and clarity about your oral health.
What to bring
A valid photo ID
Dental insurance information (if applicable)
Secondary insurance details (if you have more than one plan)
What happens at your first appointment
Your first visit usually includes a Comprehensive Oral Exam (COE) and diagnostic X-rays. During this appointment, your dentist will:
Examine your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues
Identify early signs of decay or gum disease
Review your bite and any previous dental work
Discuss your goals and create a personalized care plan
After your exam, we’ll review findings together and answer all your questions before recommending next steps.
Learn more: What’s included in a COE
What if I’ve recently had an exam elsewhere?
Even if you’ve had a recent dental exam, we typically perform our own comprehensive assessment at your first visit. This allows us to establish a current, accurate record of your oral health and tailor our recommendations accordingly.
If you have dental insurance, it’s always a good idea to confirm your coverage for a new-patient exam. Our front desk team is happy to assist.
What if I only need one tooth checked?
If you’re experiencing a specific issue, such as gum or tooth pain, sensitivity, or a chipped tooth, you can book a limited exam focused on that area. Your dentist may recommend an X-ray to evaluate the tooth and supporting structures before recommending treatment.
Does my new-patient exam include a cleaning?
Not always. A new-patient exam focuses on diagnosis and evaluation. If you’d like to combine your exam and cleaning, just let us know when booking — we can schedule a two-hour visit so both can be completed the same day.
We want to make sure your appointment meets your expectations. If you’re not sure what’s included, our team will be happy to clarify when you schedule.
Can I bring my previous X-rays?
Yes, absolutely. You’re welcome to have your previous office send them to us before your appointment. Keep in mind that X-rays older than about a year may not reflect your current oral health, so your dentist may recommend updated images for accuracy.
How do cleanings work?
A typical cleaning at Coastalview Dental takes about one hour and includes:
Scaling to remove plaque and tartar buildup
Polishing to smooth and brighten tooth surfaces
Fluoride treatment (as recommended) to strengthen enamel
If it’s been a while since your last cleaning, your hygienist may suggest multiple visits to safely remove buildup and restore gum health.
Returning patients may also have a routine checkup or X-rays during their cleaning, depending on their care schedule.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. Coastalview Dental accepts most in-network insurance.
To help avoid surprises, we encourage patients to review their plan details, such as annual maximums, frequencies, and waiting periods, before their appointment.
What if I have two insurance plans?
If you have secondary coverage (for example, through a spouse or employer), please bring both sets of insurance information. Our team will coordinate benefits to help ensure smooth processing and minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Do you have specialists in the office?
While our dentists provide a full range of general, restorative, and cosmetic services, some treatments may require the expertise of a specialist. When needed, we’ll coordinate your care with a trusted local periodontist, oral surgeon, or endodontist, ensuring your experience is seamless and personalized every step of the way.
How do you handle pricing and estimates?
We believe in transparent communication about treatment and cost. Before any procedure, we’ll review your options, explain associated fees, and provide an estimate.
Your oral health is a long-term investment, and we’ll help you make informed, confident decisions that fit both your needs and budget.
What is your cancellation policy?
We understand that schedules can change. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please give us at least two business days’ notice so we can offer that time to another patient.
Appointments missed or canceled with less notice may incur a cancellation fee. We appreciate your understanding, it helps us continue offering timely care to all our patients.
How can I pay?
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, debit, and Zelle.
Outstanding balances can be paid in person or by phone (credit card required for phone payments). If you have any billing questions, our front desk will gladly assist.
How often should I visit the dentist?
Most patients benefit from visiting every three to four month for a cleaning and checkup. Depending on your needs, your dentist may recommend a different schedule.
A regular visit may include:
A review of your medical history
Digital X-rays (as needed)
Gum and cavity checks
Screening for oral cancer
Polishing and fluoride treatment
Personalized home-care recommendations
Regular preventive care helps catch issues early and maintain long-term oral health.
What if I’m nervous about dental visits?
Many people feel anxious about seeing the dentist- and we completely understand. At Coastalview Dental, we take a gentle, patient-first approach, explaining each step and moving at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
Do you treat children?
Yes! We love welcoming young patients and helping families build healthy habits from the start. We recommend your child’s first dental visit around their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing.
Our gentle, positive approach helps children feel relaxed and comfortable - and parents are always welcome to stay with their child during the visit.
I’m pregnant - when should I visit the dentist?
Congratulations! Pregnancy is a special time, and maintaining good oral health is especially important. Hormonal changes can make gums more prone to inflammation or bleeding (pregnancy gingivitis).
We recommend scheduling a visit early in pregnancy; the second trimester is usually most comfortable for routine care. Routine exams, cleanings, and necessary treatments are safe; elective or cosmetic procedures are best postponed until after delivery.
Please let us know if you’re pregnant or planning to conceive so we can tailor your care appropriately.
Hours of operation
Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sunday & Holidays: Closed
Early morning and evening appointments are available upon request.

