Smiles On Sparks FAQs

Are you accepting new patients?
Absolutely! We are always happy to accept new members into our expanding dental family. Please call or e-mail to get you started on your way to a sparkling new smile!

Do you accept dental insurance?
Yes, we are more than happy to work with your insurer.
Please note that insurance plans vary greatly and may not cover all necessary procedures. If you are concerned about which procedures are covered, we can help fill out any associated paperwork or send an estimate on your behalf.
We cannot accept payment directly from the insurance company (a.k.a. assignment of benefits), but we provide electronic submission to your insurer and your cheque is usually in your hands in as little as three days.

Do you have a cancellation policy?
When you book an appointment with us, we reserve that time specifically for you to see the dentist or hygienist. As such, we require 48 hours notice in the event an appointment must be cancelled. This allows other patients awaiting treatment to be rescheduled into the time slot initially reserved for you. Short notice cancellations (i.e. less than 48 hours notice) and missed appointments are subject to a $75 fee.

How do you determine your fees? Are you more expensive than other Ottawa and area dental offices?/
We use the fees as listed in the Ontario Dental Association Fee Guide. In over 25 years, we have never exceeded these fees for any procedure at any time. While we are proud to say that we do not exceed the Fee Guide, it is a guide, and it is up to the discretion of each practitioner to adhere to that guide. Many offices do routinely set their fees above the Guide. As a result, we are pleased to say that we are not more expensive than other area dentists.

What is the difference between Invisalign and traditional braces?
Dr. Halpin has completed extensive orthodontic training and is pleased to be able to offer several options when it comes to straightening your teeth. Upon consulting with Dr HAlpin abpout your particular case, he will outline the best treatment for your needs. Invisalign is a great treatment in certain cases. It is very limited in what it can achieve. It can’t do much more than rotate front teeth. Often, slenderizing(cutting enamel off the sides of these teeth) is necessary to create space. With our bracket and wire system (Damon orthodontics), we can achieve broad beautiful smiles, and correct overbites and severely rotated teeth, usually without extractions, surgery, or cutting the teeth narrower (as is needed with Invisalign). Please call to book your orthodontic consultation today!