FAQ

At Brightside Dental Care, we understand that life happens, and sometimes you may need to reschedule or cancel your appointment. We ask that you notify us as soon as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule to avoid any fees and to allow us to offer the appointment slot to other patients.

Cancellation Policy

• 48-Hour Notice: We request that you provide at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment.
• Late Cancellations or No-Shows: If you cancel with less than 48 hours' notice or fail to show up for your appointment, a cancellation fee may apply.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation, as this helps us maintain a smooth schedule for all of our patients.

Brightside Dental Care has several convenient locations across Manitoba to serve you. Our main locations include:

• Brandon
• Portage la Prairie
• Stonewall
• Winnipeg

Each location is easily accessible, with a friendly team ready to help you with all your dental needs. For more information on the specific address of your preferred location, please visit our website or contact us directly.

Yes, we offer convenient parking options at all of our Brightside Dental Care locations. Each office has parking available for our patients, making it easy for you to access your appointment without worrying about parking.

If you need assistance finding parking or have specific concerns about accessibility, please feel free to contact our office before your visit.

Feel Comfortable at Brightside Dental Care – Your Anxiety-Free Dentist in Manitoba

We understand that visiting the dentist can be a source of anxiety for many people, but at Brightside Dental Care, we’re committed to making your visit as comfortable as possible. Our team is compassionate and dedicated to ensuring your dental experience is stress-free. Whether you're nervous about your first visit or dealing with dental phobia, we offer sedation options and will take the time to listen to your concerns. We use modern, gentle techniques and prioritize patient comfort at every stage of treatment.

Book an appointment today, and let us help you overcome dental anxiety in a welcoming environment.

At Brightside Dental Care, we understand that the cost of dental treatment is an important consideration. We believe in transparency and will always provide you with a clear understanding of the costs involved before proceeding with any treatment.

How We Estimate Treatment Costs

1. Treatment Plan: After evaluating your oral health, your dentist will discuss your treatment options and provide a detailed plan.
2. Insurance Coverage: We’ll check your insurance coverage to determine what’s covered and what’s not. **It is important to note that insurance companies do not always provide a guaranteed estimate, and/or they may only correspond with the patient and not us.  In these cases, we may ask you to contact your insurance provider directly(But don’t worry, we’ll help you with every step!)
3. Estimate of Costs: We’ll provide an estimate of your out-of-pocket costs based on your treatment plan and insurance benefits.

We believe in open communication and will work with you to ensure that you are fully informed about the costs and options available to you before scheduling any procedures.

Do you direct bill dental insurance? Understanding direct billing for your dental care. 

At Brightside Dental Care, we strive to make your dental experience as stress-free as possible. One of the ways we do this is by offering direct billing to your insurance provider, so you don’t have to worry about submitting claims yourself.

What is Direct Billing?

Direct billing means that we send the bill for your dental treatment directly to your insurance provider. You only pay the portion that is not covered by your insurance, which can save you time and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

How Does Direct Billing Work?

1. Provide Insurance Information: During your visit, simply provide your insurance details, including your plan number and group number.
2. We Submit the Claim: After your appointment, we submit the claim to your insurance provider on your behalf.  Most insurance providers allow us to send claims electronically and in most cases we will receive an instant response of what is covered.
3. Pay Your Portion: Payment in full is due at the end of your appointment.  If we were able to receive an instant response from your insurance provider, you will only pay the remaining balance, if any.  If we do not receive an instant response, we will do our best to estimate your portion, however, if your insurance pays us less than calculated, you will still owe us that balance, and of course, if they pay more, we will reimburse you the difference.

Benefits of Direct Billing

• Convenience: No need to handle paperwork or submit claims on your own.
• Less Stress: We take care of the insurance process for you.
• Save Time: Skip the extra steps of waiting for reimbursement from your insurance company.

If you’re unsure whether your plan qualifies for direct billing, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re happy to assist you with any questions regarding your insurance and direct billing.

Affordable Dental Care in Manitoba – High-Quality Care Within Your Budget

At Brightside Dental Care, we believe that high-quality dental care should be accessible to everyone. We offer competitive pricing and accept a wide range of insurance plans to help reduce out-of-pocket costs. We also offer financing options, so you can get the dental care you need without breaking the bank. 

Positive Payment Plan:
This is where you can make payments upfront until the cost of the required treatment is covered in your account.  Then, we can book the appointment(s).  

Dentalcard/ifinance:
If private insurance isn’t an option, Dentalcard provides straightforward, budget-friendly monthly payment plans. They offer: pre-approval that won’t affect your credit score, instant approval, affordable monthly payments, and flexible plans.

Whether you're in need of a routine cleaning or advanced treatments, we’re here to provide excellent care at an affordable price.

Contact us today to learn about our pricing options and make dental care affordable for you.

Your first dental appointment is an important step toward maintaining your oral health, and we want to make sure it's as smooth as possible. Here’s a checklist of what you should bring to your first visit to Brightside Dental Care.

Documents to Bring:

1. Insurance Information: If you plan to use insurance for your dental treatment, bring your insurance card or details of your insurance plan.
2. Medical History: It’s helpful to bring a list of any medications you’re currently taking, as well as any relevant medical conditions.
3. Payment Information: If you’re paying out-of-pocket, bring your preferred method of payment (credit card, debit card, or cash).

What to Expect:
During your first visit, we’ll conduct a thorough exam, including X-rays if needed, to assess your oral health. Our team will take the time to discuss your dental care needs, answer any questions, and develop a personalized treatment plan for you.

Regular dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining a healthy smile, and at Brightside Dental Care, we ensure that each cleaning is thorough, efficient, and comfortable.

Typical Length of a Cleaning Appointment
A standard cleaning appointment typically lasts up to 60 minutes, depending on the condition of your teeth and gums. The cleaning process involves:

• Scaling: Removing plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth.
• Polishing: Smoothing and polishing your teeth to remove surface stains.
• Flossing: Ensuring your teeth are free from any remaining plaque or food particles.
• Fluoride Treatment: Applying fluoride to help strengthen your teeth.

If you haven’t had a cleaning in a while, or if there’s significant plaque buildup, your cleaning may take longer. Your dentist or hygienist will always ensure you’re comfortable throughout the process.

Regular dental exams and cleanings are vital for maintaining your oral health and preventing serious dental issues. At Brightside Dental Care, we recommend that most patients visit us every 6 months for a routine dental exam and cleaning. This aligns with the Canadian Dental Association's recommendation for regular dental visits, typically every six months, depending on individual needs1.

Why Regular Exams and Cleanings Are Important

• Prevent Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Routine visits help catch issues early, preventing cavities and gum disease from progressing.
• Identify Potential Health Issues: Your dentist can spot signs of oral cancer, diabetes, or other systemic health conditions during your exam.
• Maintain Fresh Breath and a Clean Smile: Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, which helps keep your breath fresh and your smile bright.

If you’re prone to dental issues, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits. We’re here to help you maintain a healthy smile!

¹Canadian Dental Association. How Often Should I Visit the Dentist? https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/faqs/#regular_visits

Professional Teeth Cleaning in Manitoba – Keep Your Smile Healthy

Regular teeth cleanings are an essential part of maintaining optimal oral health. At Brightside Dental Care, we offer thorough cleaning services to remove plaque, tartar, and stains, which can help prevent cavities and gum disease. We recommend visiting us every six months for a cleaning and checkup to ensure your teeth and gums stay in top shape. Our friendly hygienists will make your cleaning experience comfortable and efficient.

Book your next teeth cleaning today for a brighter, healthier smile.

Stop Teeth Grinding and Protect Your Smile with Custom Nightguards

Teeth grinding (bruxism) can lead to tooth wear, jaw pain, and headaches, but it’s a common issue that we can address at Brightside Dental Care. If you grind your teeth at night, we offer custom nightguards that protect your teeth from damage while you sleep. Our dentists will work with you to determine the best solution to prevent further wear and tear.

In addition, teeth grinding can sometimes be a symptom of underlying medical concerns, such as sleep disorders or bite misalignment1. Our dentists can perform a thorough assessment to identify any contributing factors and recommend appropriate next steps.

We can also provide tips on stress management and jaw exercises to help reduce grinding.

If you're grinding your teeth, schedule an appointment today to discuss protective options and treatment.

¹Canadian Dental Association. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism). https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/complications/bruxism/

A custom Oral Airway Appliance may help! This small device is worn during sleep to gently shift your jaw forward and keep your airway open. It's quiet, comfortable, and a good alternative for patients who can't tolerate CPAP.

While effective for many, it's not a direct replacement for CPAP and may not work for everyone. A consultation is required to see if you're a good candidate. Dr. Mather works with your doctor to ensure safe and effective care.

Yes! If you play contact sports, a custom sports guard is a smart choice to protect your teeth, jaw, and mouth from injury. Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards, a custom-made guard is specifically designed to fit your mouth for maximum comfort, protection, and performance.

Whether you're playing football, hockey, or any other contact sport, a custom sports guard helps reduce the risk of dental damage, concussions, and jaw injuries. Book a consultation today to get a guard tailored to your needs.

A toothache can be extremely painful and frustrating, especially if your emergency appointment is a few hours or even a day away. Here are some steps you can take to manage your pain until you see your dentist.

How to Manage a Toothache Until Your Appointment

1. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions.
2. Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the painful area to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
3. Avoid Hot or Cold Foods: Avoid foods and drinks that are too hot or too cold, as they can trigger more pain in the affected tooth.
4. Salt Water Rinse: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help clean the area and reduce swelling.
5. Avoid Chewing on the Affected Side: To prevent aggravating the toothache, avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the pain is coming from.

While these steps can help manage the pain temporarily, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible to address the underlying issue.

Crown Came Off? Don’t Worry, We’re Here to Help!

If your dental crown has come off, don’t panic - Brightside Dental Care is here to help restore it quickly and effectively. A crown can come loose due to wear, decay underneath, or an issue with the bond. Regardless of the cause, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible to avoid further damage or discomfort. At Brightside Dental Care, our experienced team will examine the area, clean the crown, and reattach it, or if necessary, provide a replacement. We’ll ensure that your crown fits securely and comfortably so that you can continue to enjoy a healthy, confident smile.

If your crown has come off, contact us immediately to schedule an appointment and restore your smile quickly and effectively. 

Wisdom Teeth Causing Pain? Let’s Take a Look

As your wisdom teeth come in, they can cause discomfort, crowding, or even infection. At Brightside Dental Care, we’ll assess the position of your wisdom teeth and recommend the best course of action. Whether you need them extracted or simply monitored, our team is here to ensure your comfort and oral health.

If your wisdom teeth are causing discomfort, schedule an appointment today for a consultation.

Sore Jaw? Let Us Help You Find Relief

A sore jaw can be caused by various factors, including teeth grinding, TMJ disorders, or even misalignment. At Brightside Dental Care, we’ll perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the cause of your jaw pain. We offer solutions like custom nightguards, jaw exercises, and alignment treatments to relieve your discomfort and prevent further issues.

Contact us today for an evaluation of your jaw pain and explore treatment options.

Broken Tooth? Quick, Effective Treatment to Restore Your Smile

If you've broken a tooth, don’t panic—Brightside Dental Care is here to help. Whether you’ve chipped a tooth while eating or cracked it during an accident, our skilled dentists can assess the damage and provide prompt, effective solutions. We offer a range of treatments, including crowns, veneers, and fillings, to restore the strength and appearance of your tooth. Our team will guide you through every step, ensuring you receive the best care with minimal discomfort.

If you've broken a tooth, contact us immediately for fast, reliable care and treatment.

Bleeding Gums? It Could Be Gum Disease – Let’s Treat It Early

Bleeding gums are often a sign of gum disease, which can lead to more serious issues if not treated. At Brightside Dental Care, we specialize in diagnosing and treating gum disease. Our experienced team will provide a thorough cleaning and offer treatment options to stop the bleeding and improve your gum health. Early intervention can prevent the need for more extensive treatments down the line, so don’t ignore the signs.

If your gums are bleeding, schedule an appointment today for an evaluation and treatment plan.

Freshen Your Breath with Effective Dental Care

Bad breath (halitosis) can be caused by a variety of factors, from poor oral hygiene to underlying health issues. At Brightside Dental Care, we offer comprehensive treatments to help freshen your breath and address the root causes. Whether it’s gum disease, dry mouth, or something else, our team will perform a thorough examination and recommend the right treatment. Regular cleanings and good oral hygiene practices can also go a long way in keeping your breath fresh.

Schedule an appointment today to address your bad breath and restore your confidence.

Brighten Your Smile with Professional Teeth Whitening

Yellow teeth can be caused by many factors, including age, food and drink, or smoking. At Brightside Dental Care, we offer professional teeth whitening treatments that can restore the brightness of your smile in just one visit. Our treatments are safe, effective, and tailored to your specific needs, giving you a brighter, more confident smile.

Contact us today to learn more about our teeth whitening options and achieve a brighter smile.

Straighten Your Teeth with Orthodontic Care from Dr. Ashley Dykun

Crooked teeth can affect both your appearance and your confidence. At Brightside Dental Care, we offer a range of orthodontic options, including traditional braces and Invisalign, to straighten your teeth and improve your smile. Dr. Ashley Dykun, our orthodontic specialist, will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs.

Book a consultation with Dr. Ashley Dykun today to begin your journey to a straighter smile.

Toothache Relief in Manitoba – Fast, Effective Treatment

Toothaches can be caused by cavities, infections, or even tooth sensitivity, and they can worsen if not addressed. At Brightside Dental Care, we understand the urgency of tooth pain, and our team is ready to provide quick, effective treatment. Whether you need a filling, root canal, or simply a thorough cleaning, we’ll work to relieve your pain and get your oral health back on track. Our team will also offer tips on how to manage toothache discomfort until you can get to our office.

Don’t wait - contact us today for fast toothache relief and expert dental care.

Lost a Tooth? Restore Your Smile with Implants, Bridges, or Dentures

Losing a tooth can affect both your smile and your confidence, but at Brightside Dental Care, we offer a variety of options to restore your smile. Whether you choose dental implants, bridges, or dentures, our team will work with you to find the solution that best suits your needs. We’ll guide you through every step of the process, from consultation to final restoration, to ensure a natural, long-lasting result.

Schedule a consultation today to discuss your tooth replacement options and regain your smile.

It's best to wait until the numbness wears off - usually 2 to 3 hours - before eating or drinking anything hot. Eating while still frozen can increase the risk of accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. If you're hungry in the meantime, stick to soft, cool foods or drinks (like a smoothie) and chew on the opposite side of your mouth.

Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures is a common dental concern. It often means that your tooth enamel is worn down or your gum line has receded, exposing the sensitive inner layer of the tooth (dentin). Common causes include tooth decay, worn fillings, gum disease, teeth grinding, or aggressive brushing. If you're experiencing sharp or lingering pain when eating or drinking something hot or cold, it’s important to see your dentist. At Brightside Dental Care, we can diagnose the cause of your sensitive teeth and recommend effective treatments - such as desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride applications, or addressing any underlying dental issues - to help you find relief.