Frequently Asked Questions

Appointments & access

How quickly can I get an appointment?

Most new patients can be seen within the same week. For urgent issues like toothache, a chipped tooth, or a lost filling, we hold time every day for same-day appointments.

Do you accept walk-ins?

Yes — walk-ins are welcome during business hours. We’ll always do our best to fit you in, though scheduled patients take priority. If you’re in pain, please call ahead and we’ll get you in as quickly as possible.

What are your hours?

Is the office wheelchair accessible?

Yes — we’re on the ground floor with a barrier-free entrance and accessible washroom.

Insurance & payment

Do you bill insurance directly?

Yes, we bill directly to most major insurance providers. In most cases you only pay the portion your plan doesn’t cover, on the day of your visit.

What if I don’t have insurance?

We’ll provide a clear written estimate before any treatment so you know exactly what to expect. We accept all major payment methods, and financing options are available for larger treatment plans.

Why does the dentist sometimes recommend treatment my insurance won’t fully cover?

Insurance plans are based on what they’re willing to pay for, not what’s clinically best. We’ll always make our recommendation based on your health first, then walk you through what’s covered and what isn’t so you can decide.

During treatment

Are X-rays safe?

Our X-rays are digital and low-dose — far below the radiation you’d get from a typical airline flight. We only take X-rays when they’re clinically necessary, and we use lead aprons as a precaution.

Will it hurt?

Modern dentistry is dramatically more comfortable than it used to be. We use topical anaesthetic before any injection, take time to ensure you’re fully numb, and can stop at any point if you’re uncomfortable. Most patients report mild pressure at most.

What if I’m anxious about dental visits?

You’re not alone — dental anxiety is one of the most common things we hear. Please tell us at booking and we’ll plan extra time, walk you through every step (or skip the explanations if you’d rather not know), and pause whenever you need.

Specific treatments

Are dental implants worth it?

For most patients with missing teeth, yes. Implants look and function like natural teeth, don’t require grinding down adjacent teeth (the way a bridge does), and typically last 20+ years. Dr. Zajac has been placing implants since 2002 and will give you a candid assessment of whether they’re the right choice for your situation.

How long does Invisalign take?

Most adult cases take 6 to 18 months depending on complexity. Simple cases (closing a gap, fixing minor crowding) can take as little as 6 months. We’ll give you a clear timeline at your free consultation.

How often should I get a cleaning?

Most patients benefit from a cleaning every 6 months. Patients with periodontal disease, smokers, or those with certain medical conditions may need cleanings every 3–4 months. We’ll recommend the right interval for you.

Emergencies

What counts as a dental emergency?

Severe toothache, a knocked-out or broken tooth, swelling in the face or gums, a lost filling or crown, or an injury to the mouth. If you’re unsure, call us — we’d rather you ask than wait it out.

What should I do if I knock out a tooth?

1. Pick up the tooth by the crown (the white part), not the root
2. Rinse it gently with milk or saliva — don’t scrub
3. If possible, place it back in the socket; otherwise keep it in milk or inside your cheek
4. Call us immediately — time matters

What about after hours?

If you have an emergency outside our hours, call our main line — the voicemail will direct you to appropriate help. For life-threatening swelling or trauma, go to your nearest emergency room.

Still have questions? Get in touch or call us at (905) 455-2900.