How to choose a family dentist
A family dentist can see everyone in your household over many years. A few practical questions help you find a good fit.
Look for a dentist who is registered with the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario, sees patients of all ages and has hours and a location that suit your family. Ask how billing works, whether they bill insurers directly or accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan, how they handle emergencies, and how they explain treatment options.
Check registration
Every dentist practising in Ontario must be registered with the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO). The RCDSO's public register lets you look up a dentist by name and see their registration status. It also shows whether they are a general dentist or a registered specialist.
Practical things that matter day to day
For our office, that means a location on Bathurst St just north of Sheppard Ave W, with a free parking lot at the building and wheelchair-accessible parking, entrance and washroom. We're open Monday to Thursday, with appointments until 7 on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
- Location and travel time from home, school or work
- Hours that fit around your schedule, including any evening appointments
- Parking or transit access
- Accessibility, such as an elevator, ramp or accessible washroom
- Whether family members can be booked close together
- Languages spoken by the team
Care for every age
A family practice should be comfortable seeing a toddler for a first visit and an older adult with dentures. Ask which treatments are done in the office and which are referred to specialists, such as orthodontists, oral surgeons or endodontists. Knowing this in advance avoids surprises.
At our office, Dr. Maralani is a general dentist who sees children, adults and seniors. Some treatments, such as implant surgery, are arranged with a specialist.
Billing and coverage
- Does the office bill your insurance company directly?
- Does it accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan, and how are co-payments explained?
- Will they send a predetermination before larger treatment?
- Are fees based on the Ontario Dental Association suggested fee guide?
- Are payment plans available?
How it feels to be a patient
Notice how the team answers the phone, explains wait times and handles your questions. A good office explains your options, including doing nothing, in plain language and gives you time to decide. If you're anxious, ask how they support nervous patients.
Emergency care also matters. Ask whether they offer same-day appointments for urgent problems and what to do when they're closed.
Reading the office's website, calling with a few questions and booking a first checkup are reasonable ways to get a feel for a practice before committing to larger treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Can my whole family see the same dentist?
Yes. Many family practices see children from their first birthday through to seniors, which keeps everyone's records in one place.
How do I transfer my dental records?
Ask your new office. With your signed consent, they can request X-rays and records from your previous dentist.
Is a general dentist different from a specialist?
A general dentist provides a wide range of care for all ages. A specialist has completed extra training in one area, such as orthodontics, and is registered as a specialist with the RCDSO.
What should I bring to my first visit?
Bring photo ID, your insurance card or CDCP details, a list of medicines and any recent X-rays or records from your previous dentist.
Related services
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Trusted health information
General information only; not a substitute for an exam. Reviewed by Dr. Sayeh Maralani, DDS, general dentist. Last updated 2026-11-05.
Book your family's next visit
New patients welcome. We check your coverage before treatment.