What is a dental hygienist?

A dental hygienist is a self regulated health care professional who provides dental hygiene treatment within a scope of practice set out by the BC College of Oral Health Professionals. Please visit https://oralhealthbc.ca/ for more information.

Diane is a member in good standing of both the BCCOHP as well as the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association CDHA. Please visit and https://oralhealthbc.ca/ and https://www.cdha.ca/ for more information. Diane is the proud recipient of the 2022 Dianne Gallagher award from the British Columbia Dental Hygienists Association.

How much will my dental cleaning cost?

Each patient’s dental needs are unique and costs vary depending on what each patient needs.

Diane’s fees are standard and set out by the British Columbia Dental Hygienists Association’s annual fee guide. Fees for debridement, also called scaling/ root planing, are structured per unit of time in 15 minute blocks. If it has been a few years, you will likely need more than one appointment to get you caught up. Typically, the longer it has been since your last professional cleaning, the longer it will take and the more it will cost. We recommend seeing a dental hygienist every 6 months for healthy individuals and every 3-4 months for individuals who have periodontal disease, build deposits quickly or other medical needs that increased hygiene intervals benefit.

The cost of a typical New Patient visit is in the range of $150-300. Follow up appointments typically are int the range of $150-250.

To watch a debridement video visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4ulKI0bU2w

Will it hurt?

The longer it has been between cleanings, the more deposits and inflammation you will typically have. When you have heavy deposits, your gums will generally bleed more and be more sensitive during the appointment when removing the deposits. Once the deposits are removed, your gums will typically feel much better, bleed less, and require less time at subsequent follow up visits. Diane offers a variety of numbing agents and anaesthetic to provide comfort during your appointment.

Does my insurance cover this?

We will take your insurance information at the start of your appointment and then electronically file your insurance claim at the end. You will be responsible for payment of any amount not covered by your insurance company, please be aware of your plans benefits and limits.

When do I see my dentist?

It is important for you to visit your general dentist every 6 months for an exam and also to have xrays every 1-2 years. If Diane sees something of concern during your hygiene appointment, she will notify your dentist but it is best to visit your dentist regularly for a complete dental exam.

What if I don’t have a dentist?

That’s ok, we can still see you for your hygiene appointment and refer you to one of the many amazing dentists in Whistler and area!

What if I don’t want fluoride?

At your dental visit Diane will discuss with you if a polish or fluoride is recommended but it is your choice as to which treatments you would like to have or decline to have.