Question 1

Where do you set up?

Accepted Answer

Our team sets up a clinical area that is provided by the home.

Question 2

Why are appointment times tentative?

Accepted Answer

We maintain a fluid schedule to account for possible unforeseen circumstances.

If you require a set time or date to be seen, please text our text line, email info@dentalhygieneteam.com or call 905-321-2912.

Question 3

What time will residents be seen for their appointment if there is no set time?

Accepted Answer

Rest assured that if you or your loved one is on our schedule, they will be seen while we are onsite and you will receive a phone report to follow.

Question 4

How will I know what happened at the dental hygiene appointment?

Accepted Answer

After the dental hygiene appointment is completed, the dental hygienist will provide the power of attorney for care with a detailed report by phone call.

Question 5

What if I miss the report phone call?

Accepted Answer

If you miss the phone report call from the dental hygienist, they will leave a detailed voicemail. If you do not have a voicemail initialized, they will text to report or email to report.

Question 6

What should I do if I have more questions?

Accepted Answer

Please feel free to contact us via email, text or phone with more questions. Email communication is preferred for quicker response time.  When you call 905-321-2912, please leave a message that will be returned by the next business day.

Question 7

Can you provide a cost estimate?

Accepted Answer

We do not provide estimates over the phone without first seeing the resident. We recommend booking a  new client exam for a fee of $80, which includes a comprehensive oral assessment and  plaque removal. Following this visit, we will provide a personalized estimate and can schedule any recommended care.

Question 8

How much will this cost?

Accepted Answer

Our fees are based on the Ontario Dental Hygienists' Association Fee Guide and are comparable to that of a private dental office.

Question 9

I am worried that my loved one may not co-operate. We have had issues in the past bringing them to a dentist. How will you manage them?

Accepted Answer

We understand that some residents may feel hesitant or unable to cooperate with dental treatment. Our team uses gentle techniques, patience, and a compassionate approach to build comfort and trust over time. Because we are not under the same time pressures as a traditional dental clinic, we can move at the resident’s pace and adapt to their needs. With this approach, we’ve had great success supporting even the most seemingly challenging residents.

Question 10

My loved one does not open when I try to brush their teeth. What do you recommend?

Accepted Answer

It’s common for loved ones to resist opening for oral care. We recommend starting gently by hydrating the lips and approaching care slowly. Using an electric spin brush or even two manual toothbrushes can sometimes help encourage opening. Begin with just water or a small smear of toothpaste, and keep the experience calm and brief. It’s okay if a small amount of toothpaste is swallowed. Over time, consistency and a gentle approach can help build tolerance.

You may  find this video and others like it helpful:

Question 11

Do you do the treatment in resident's rooms?

Accepted Answer

All treatment is typically completed in our designated clinical area. Our friendly support team will safely escort each resident to and from the space to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience.

In certain circumstances, if a resident is unable to leave their bed, we can provide most treatment at the bedside.

Question 12

My loved one cannot leave their bed. Can they still be seen?

Accepted Answer

In certain circumstances, if a resident is unable to leave their bed, we can provide most treatment safely and comfortably at the bedside.

Question 13

What happens if more complicated work is needed and the resident is mobile?

Accepted Answer

If more extensive dental work is required and the resident is able to leave the facility, we can assist you in making a referral to community resources.

Question 14

What happens if more complicated work is needed and the resident cannot leave the home?

Accepted Answer

If more extensive dental work is required and the resident is unable to leave the facility, we can assist you in making a referral to mobile  resources.

Oftentimes, our team can manage complicated oral conditions onsite. Our team has extensive knowledge and experience to help guide decisions safely and comfortably for residents.

We work in close collaboration with the resident's nursing and physician teams as well as family members to help navigate these care decisions together with the ultimate goal of reducing risk of oral infection, eliminating pain, and ensuring comfort while eating.

Question 15

My loved one needs a new denture and cannot leave the home- what can you do?

Accepted Answer

If a resident is unable to leave the facility, we can assist you in making a referral to a trusted mobile denturist.

Question 16

My loved one stopped wearing their denture(s). What should I do?

Accepted Answer

If a resident has stopped wearing their denture, there is often an explanation that cannot be articulated by the resident themselves.

After a thorough assessment, we can assist you in making a referral to a trusted mobile denturist or discuss next steps if a referral is not warranted.

In circumstances when wearing the denture is no longer in the resident's best interest, we will work in close collaboration with you and your family members to help navigate care decisions.

Question 17

My loved one broke a tooth and I think they have many more broken teeth! Is this normal?

Accepted Answer

.It can be very concerning to see, but unfortunately this is not uncommon in long-term care. Many factors can contribute to broken or rapidly deteriorating teeth, including a decline in daily oral care, advancing dementia, a higher risk for decay, and diets that are often higher in carbohydrates.

Additionally, dry mouth (often caused by medications), changes in oral pH, and other underlying health conditions can accelerate the breakdown of teeth.

With the right assessment and ongoing care, we can help manage these changes and support your loved one’s comfort and oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions