# Longworth Dental
> Family, cosmetic & emergency dentists in Bowmanville & Courtice, ON. Longworth Dental welcomes new patients at both locations. Book your visit.
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## Pages
### Longworth Dental Bowmanville
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/bowmanville/
Last updated: 2026-07-29T12:10:10.000Z
Your Visit

## Your patient journey

![Dr. Sharon sitting in a chair next to a patient, holding a model of teeth](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/bowmanville_new_patient.jpg)

Dr. Sharon reviewing treatment options with a patient

### **Become a new patient**

We aim to make your experience as smooth as possible before you even step into our practice. You can conveniently book your initial appointment online or give us a call!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/bowmanville_reception.jpg)

### **Experience exceptional care**

Upon arrival, our receptionist will warmly welcome you and check you in for your appointment. You have the option to complete your intake forms online beforehand, or we can assist you with them here at the office.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/bowmanville_sterilization.jpg)

### **Prioritize your health**

As you make your way to your appointment, you'll pass by our sterilization centre. We sterilize all instruments right here in our clinic.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/bowmanville_treatment_coordinator.jpg)

### **Personalize your treatment**

Before you leave, sit down and chat about your health goals with our treatment coordinator. This helps us align your treatment plan with what you want to achieve.
### Longworth Dental Courtice
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/courtice/
Last updated: 2026-07-28T15:08:18.000Z
Your Visit

## Your patient journey

![Emily Cooper wearing protective eyewear during an in-office whitening treatment, under a blue LED lamp at Longworth Dental Courtice](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/courtice_new_patient.jpg)

Emily getting in-office whitening at Longworth Dental Courtice

### **Become a new patient**

We aim to make your experience as smooth as possible before you even step into our practice. You can conveniently book your initial appointment online or give us a call!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/courtice_reception.jpg)

Jennifer answering the phone at Longworth Dental Courtice

### **Experience exceptional care**

Upon arrival, our receptionist will warmly welcome you and check you in for your appointment. You have the option to complete your intake forms online beforehand, or we can assist you with them here at the office.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/courtice_sterilization.jpg)

### **Prioritize your health**

As you make your way to your appointment, you'll pass by our sterilization centre. We sterilize all instruments right here in our clinic.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/courtice_treatment_coordinator.jpg)

### **Personalize your treatment**

Before you leave, sit down and chat about your health goals with our treatment coordinator. This helps us align your treatment plan with what you want to achieve.
### Bowmanville Contact
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/bowmanville-contact/
Last updated: 2026-07-14T16:06:54.000Z
Get in Touch

## Contact Us

[Call 905-697-0707](tel:+19056970707) [Book online, anytime](https://can5.recallmax.com/rsm/request/public/bookOnline/patient/patient.html?a=pFeNcyFNI3W4fQ4IFHFL68P2%5FsToLQKhL&ref=longworthdental.ca) 

**Address**  
[570 Longworth Avenue, Unit 4](https://maps.app.goo.gl/i1JXQ2ngDiopUZ7D8?ref=longworthdental.ca)  
Bowmanville, ON L1C 0H4

**Email**  
[bowmanville@longworthdental.ca](mailto:bowmanville@longworthdental.ca)

**Fax**  
905.697.0790

**Hours** 1-hour lunch break daily

Monday8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Tuesday8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Wednesday10:00 am – 7:00 pm

Thursday8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Friday8:00 am – 1:00 pm

SaturdayRest

SundayRest
### Courtice Contact
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/courtice-contact/
Last updated: 2026-07-07T17:26:03.000Z
Get in Touch

## Contact Us

[Call 905-697-3397](tel:+19056973397) [Book online, anytime](https://can7.recallmax.com/rsm/request/public/bookOnline/patient/patient.html?a=0XNptBa1HtM2mB8fa1whO0ca3A2%5FwxF3ZR32&ref=longworthdental.ca) 

**Address**  
[1405 Bloor Street, Unit 4](https://maps.app.goo.gl/9QfzBzgQNJnsLeNb6?ref=longworthdental.ca)  
Courtice, ON L1E 0A1

**Email**  
[courtice@longworthdental.ca](mailto:courtice@longworthdental.ca)

**Fax**  
905.697.1772

**Hours** 1-hour lunch break daily

Monday8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Tuesday8:00 am – 6:00 pm

Wednesday10:00 am – 7:00 pm

Thursday8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Friday8:00 am – 1:00 pm

SaturdayRest

SundayRest
## Posts
### Fees
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/fees/
Last updated: 2026-07-28T15:50:06.000Z
New patients frequently ask about our fees and how we accept payment. Our fees support compensating our team, maintaining modern protocols and equipment, and giving back to our community.

## We offer the same level of service to all our patients, regardless of dental benefits.

You and your dental team work together to evaluate your oral health. You identify your ideal treatment plan and you choose your treatment option. Your clinical team provides treatment.

Whether you are a student, employed with benefits, or retired, we offer the same level of service and treatment. This process is the same across your lifetime, and across all Longworth Dental patients, regardless of insurance status.

#### We follow the Ontario Dental Association's (ODA) suggested fee guide

We follow the ODA suggested fee guide. Fees are updated annually on January 1st. 

#### We can direct-bill your insurance company

We can accept payment directly from your insurance company. Please note that all balances remain your responsibility. We are unable to know what is in your plan.

#### We accept all major credit cards

We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Union Pay and Debit.

## We accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)

[![CTA Image](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/canada-1.png)](https://canada.ca/dental?ref=longworthdental.ca) 

We accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) as a form of payment. Click here to apply for or renew CDCP coverage.

[Apply for CDCP coverage ](https://canada.ca/dental?ref=longworthdental.ca) 

## We accept Ontario-specific programs in conjunction with the CDCP

To be eligible as a new patient, you must also apply for CDCP coverage.

[![CTA Image](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/ontario.png)](https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-dental-care?ref=longworthdental.ca) 

The Ontario Healthy Smiles program covers teeth cleaning, check-ups and dental treatment for kids.

[Apply for Healthy Smiles ](https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-dental-care?ref=longworthdental.ca) 

[![CTA Image](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/ontario-1.png)](https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-disability-support-program?ref=longworthdental.ca) 

The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) provides support for people living with a disability.

[Apply for ODSP ](https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-disability-support-program?ref=longworthdental.ca) 

[![CTA Image](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/ontario-2.png)](https://www.dnssab.ca/ontario-works/how-to-apply/?ref=longworthdental.ca) 

Ontario Works provides financial assistance for food and housing, and can cover emergency dental services.

[Apply for Ontario Works ](https://www.dnssab.ca/ontario-works/how-to-apply/?ref=longworthdental.ca)
### POV: when your favourite doctor is out of the office…
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/favourite-doctor-out-of-office/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:58:56.000Z
0:00 

/0:17 

1× 

A lighthearted moment from our Courtice office: when [Dr. Sharon](https://longworthdental.ca/sharon-barr/) is out for the day.

Sound: A Thousand Miles by Vanessa Carlton.
### Warming up for when everyone remembers their benefits expire in December
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/benefits-expire-in-december/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:31:09.000Z
0:00 

/0:17 

1× 

Every autumn the calls pour in as patients remember their [dental benefits](https://longworthdental.ca/services/) reset in December. Our Courtice team is warming up, so book early.

Sound: Teach Me How to Dougie by Mr Grouchy.
### When the dental assistant disappears during the appointment
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/assistant-disappears/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:31:07.000Z
0:00 

/0:06 

1× 

Ever wonder where the dental assistant goes mid-appointment? A playful reveal from our Courtice team.
### When your patient says they didn't even feel the injection
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/didnt-feel-the-injection/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:31:05.000Z
0:00 

/0:13 

1× 

There's no better compliment for [Dr. Sharon](https://longworthdental.ca/sharon-barr/) than 'I didn't even feel that.' Comfort is the priority at our Courtice office.

Sound: Lil Boo Thang by Paul Russell.
### Surprising our patient with a free treatment
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/surprising-a-patient-free-treatment/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:31:03.000Z
0:00 

/0:11 

1× 

[Chelsea](https://longworthdental.ca/chelsea-good/) lets a patient pick a card for a free treatment, with a playful twist at the end. Just another day appreciating our Courtice patients.
### When you recline the chair but the patient doesn't go with it
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/chair-back-patient-stays/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:31:02.000Z
0:00 

/0:11 

1× 

When you recline the chair but the patient stays exactly where they were. A little Courtice comedy.
### What we hear vs. what the patient hears
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/what-we-hear-in-the-chair/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:59.000Z
0:00 

/0:10 

1× 

We have our own dental shorthand, but from the chair it can all sound like gibberish. What we hear versus what the patient hears. From our Courtice team.
### Megan Maclean
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/megan-maclean/
Last updated: 2026-07-14T16:15:10.000Z
Megan completed Durham College's Dental Reception program, graduating with honours in 2025\. She liked that the program had a great reputation and that the teachers were so supportive. She has been with Longworth Dental ever since. Megan enjoys welcoming patients to the practice and strives to make them feel comfortable throughout their dental visit by keeping them informed along the way.
### When your schedule has multiple root canals on the same day
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/multiple-root-canals-one-day/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:58.000Z
0:00 

/0:09 

1× 

That moment you check the schedule and spot several root canals on the same day. Deep breath. From Courtice.
### Trying to keep the doctor on time like
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/keeping-the-doctor-on-time/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:56.000Z
0:00 

/0:07 

1× 

Keeping the doctor on schedule is its own full-time job. Our Courtice team makes it look easy.
### POV: your dentist starts behaving like most other service providers
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/dentist-asking-for-tips/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:54.000Z
0:00 

/0:13 

1× 

What if your dentist asked for a tip like everyone else? [Dr. Zuhair Waheed](https://longworthdental.ca/dr-zuhair-waheed/) plays along in Courtice.
### Working in dental be like
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/working-in-dental-be-like/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:52.000Z
0:00 

/0:05 

1× 

Working in dental be like a real workout. No wonder we keep the ibuprofen makers in business. From Courtice.

Sound: peekaboo by Kendrick Lamar.
### How I think I look assisting my dentist vs. how I actually look
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/how-i-think-i-look-assisting/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:50.000Z
0:00 

/0:08 

1× 

How I think I look assisting the dentist, versus how I actually look. Expectation versus reality, from our Courtice team.

Sound: Eyes Without a Face by Billy Idol.
### Seeing who in the office passes the vibe check
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/office-vibe-check/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:49.000Z
0:00 

/0:21 

1× 

Seeing who around the office passes the vibe check, from [Amanda](https://longworthdental.ca/amanda-germaine/), [Bella](https://longworthdental.ca/bella-morrison/) and the rest of our Courtice crew.

Sound: Loyal by dez.
### When the front desk fills your open spot at the end of the day
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/front-desk-fills-your-spot/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:45.000Z
0:00 

/0:05 

1× 

You can almost see the open spot at the end of the day, and then the front desk fills it. The betrayal. From Courtice.
### Checking I have 2 hands because my dentist thinks I have 6
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/do-i-have-six-hands/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:43.000Z
0:00 

/0:10 

1× 

[Chelsea](https://longworthdental.ca/chelsea-good/) double-checks: still just two hands, even if the dentist swears she has six. From our Courtice team.
### POV: you need to take an impression but your patient is very chatty
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/chatty-impression-patient/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:41.000Z
0:00 

/0:15 

1× 

Taking an impression takes focus, especially when your patient wants to chat the whole time. A relatable one from Courtice.
### How to floss the right way
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/how-to-floss/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:37.000Z
0:00 

/0:10 

1× 

Get the floss low between the teeth, then swipe up each side of the tooth, and repeat in the same gap. Flossing before brushing is best. Ask us about [your dental care](https://longworthdental.ca/services/) at your next Courtice visit.

Sound: Confidence by Ocean Alley.
### POV: you're a dental assistant fixing the equipment with YouTube tutorials
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/fixing-equipment-youtube/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:34.000Z
0:00 

/0:09 

1× 

Every dental assistant has, at some point, fixed the equipment with a little help from YouTube. From our Courtice office.
### When you're having a bad day and your work bestie is always supportive
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/work-bestie-support/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:32.000Z
0:00 

/0:07 

1× 

A bad day is a lot easier when your work bestie always has your back, even offering to pull the fire alarm so you can go home. From our Courtice team.
### When you thought the dentist was trying to make heart hands with you
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/heart-hands/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:30.000Z
0:00 

/0:12 

1× 

When you think [Dr. Sharon](https://longworthdental.ca/sharon-barr/) is making heart hands, but she's just getting to work. It really is all love here in Courtice.

Sound: Mr. Perfectly Fine by Taylor Swift.
### Behind the scenes as a dental assistant
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/behind-the-scenes-assistant/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:27.000Z
0:00 

/0:22 

1× 

A behind-the-scenes look at a day as a dental assistant at our Courtice office. Never a dull moment.
### So you're a dentist?
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/so-youre-a-dentist/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:25.000Z
0:00 

/0:06 

1× 

Yes, [Dr. Zuhair Waheed](https://longworthdental.ca/dr-zuhair-waheed/) is a dentist. No, he can't check your teeth at the dinner table. A fun one from our Courtice office.
### POV: attempting to contact the insurance company
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/contacting-the-insurance-company/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:22.000Z
0:00 

/0:06 

1× 

The long wait every dental office knows well: trying to reach the insurance company. From our Courtice front desk.
### That weird patient who likes the taste of topical anesthetic
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/likes-the-taste-of-topical/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:20.000Z
0:00 

/0:08 

1× 

There's always that one patient who loves the flavour of the topical anesthetic. A fun one from our Courtice team.
### POV: you start getting curious if your patients are overreacting
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/are-patients-overreacting/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:18.000Z
0:00 

/0:07 

1× 

After enough patients flinch at the cold air, you start to wonder, so our Courtice team tested it themselves.
### Jennifer Kniznik
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/jennifer-kniznik/
Last updated: 2026-07-09T14:06:34.000Z
Jennifer joined our Courtice team with over 20 years in dental administration. Her expertise in patient coordination and insurance management ensures a seamless experience. Jennifer's warm presence puts anxious patients at ease, while her knowledge of dental procedures helps her effectively communicate treatment options.
### POV: you work with the most wonderful, fun and caring people
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/wonderful-fun-caring-people/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:16.000Z
0:00 

/0:19 

1× 

We're lucky to work with the most wonderful, fun and caring people. Grateful for the whole Longworth Dental team.
### How we feel at the start of the day vs. the end of the day
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/start-of-the-day-energy/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:12.000Z
0:00 

/0:05 

1× 

The energy our Courtice team brings at the start of the day, versus how we feel by the end of it. You can guess which is which.
### POV: training the new dental assistant
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/training-the-new-assistant/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:10.000Z
0:00 

/0:12 

1× 

Training day at our Courtice office, this time at the sterilization station. There's a lot more to assisting than meets the eye.
### When you and the dentist are having fun and then he puts you to work
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/then-he-puts-you-to-work/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:30:07.000Z
0:00 

/0:05 

1× 

One minute you and [Dr. Zuhair](https://longworthdental.ca/dr-zuhair-waheed/) are joking around, the next you're back to work. A light moment from our Courtice team.
### Take a tour of our Courtice office
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/courtice-office-tour/
Last updated: 2026-07-27T15:57:26.000Z
0:00 

/0:25 

1× 

A look through our Courtice office, where we're welcoming new patients.
### POV: you see the doctor going into another room, but you called her first
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/doctor-went-the-wrong-way/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:29:52.000Z
0:00 

/0:05 

1× 

When you call [Dr. Sharon](https://longworthdental.ca/sharon-barr/) to your room and watch her head straight into the other one. A full u-turn required, Courtice edition.
### POV: showing our admin places she's never seen before
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/showing-admin-the-washing-machine/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:29:44.000Z
0:00 

/0:26 

1× 

Our admin rarely makes it to the back, so the team gave her the grand tour: the washing machine, the storage area, the lab, the instrument washer, and the pan/ceph machine. From our Courtice office.
### Dr. Yousif Al-Ali, BDS
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/dr-yousif-al-ali/
Last updated: 2026-07-09T14:06:35.000Z
Dr. Yousif Al-Ali is an Associate Dentist committed to excellence in dental care. Well-versed in the latest advancements, his patient-centered approach ensures high-quality treatment. Dr. Al-Ali's dedication to continuous learning reflects his passion for providing exceptional care.
### Take a digital scan with me
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/digital-scan-with-me/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:29:25.000Z
0:00 

/0:22 

1× 

Come along for a digital scan on our new [iTero Lumina scanner](https://longworthdental.ca/services/). Modern 3D imaging means faster, more comfortable appointments at our Bowmanville office.

Sound: Hell N Back by Bakar.
### POV: when the dentist squeezes in another patient at the end of the day
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/squeezing-in-another-patient/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:29:22.000Z
0:00 

/0:09 

1× 

That end-of-day feeling when [Dr. Sharon](https://longworthdental.ca/sharon-barr/) finds room for just one more patient. Our Courtice team takes it in stride.
### Behind the scenes of a dental receptionist
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/behind-the-scenes-receptionist/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:29:18.000Z
0:00 

/0:05 

1× 

A behind-the-scenes look at everything our Bowmanville dental receptionist juggles in a day.
### When the dentist is waiting but you can't get your glove on
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/cant-get-my-glove-on/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:29:15.000Z
0:00 

/0:05 

1× 

The dentist is ready, the patient is ready, and the glove just will not cooperate. A relatable one from our Bowmanville team.
### What your dental assistant is really doing on their 'be right back'
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/be-right-back/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:29:11.000Z
0:00 

/0:06 

1× 

What your dental assistant is really up to when they say they'll be right back. Sometimes it involves a snack. From our Courtice office.
### POV: when you bother admin for the tenth time in an hour
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/bother-admin-tenth-time/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:29:09.000Z
0:00 

/0:07 

1× 

What it looks like from the front desk when the back keeps needing just one more thing. Our Bowmanville [admin](https://longworthdental.ca/laura-pflanzer/) has seen it all.
### POV: training a new dental assistant
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/training-a-new-dental-assistant/
Last updated: 2026-07-21T21:29:06.000Z
0:00 

/0:14 

1× 

One of our Bowmanville dental assistants having a bit of fun training the newest member of the team. Dentistry can be a bunch of waiting around, followed by moments where stuff gets done.
### Lorna Simic
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/lorna-simic/
Last updated: 2026-07-09T14:06:35.000Z
Lorna is a Registered Dental Hygienist with over 20 years in dentistry. She excels at patient education and developing personalized care plans. Lorna's warm demeanour helps patients feel at ease, making dental visits stress-free and comfortable.
### Chelsea Good
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/chelsea-good/
Last updated: 2026-07-09T14:06:36.000Z
Chelsea is a Certified Dental Assistant known for exceptional patient care and technical skills. Her attention to detail and commitment to maintaining a sterile environment contribute to our practice's safety and efficiency. Chelsea's friendly nature creates a reassuring atmosphere for all patients.

Chelsea would like you to know that she believes she is the favourite, most best ever high quality assistant of all time. She hopes this comes across in the care you receive during your visit.

p.s. If you are Drake, we have a special chair reserved for you #godsplan #hopedrakeseesthis
### Jeremy’s guide to the Canada Dental Benefit (part III)
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/jeremys-guide-to-the-canada-dental-benefit-part-iii/
Last updated: 2026-07-28T14:47:54.000Z
****Note: this covers a program that has ended.** The Canada Dental Benefit (CDB) was a temporary benefit for children under 12, available from December 2022 through June 2024\. It has since been replaced by the permanent ****Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)**. For current eligibility and how to apply, see our [Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) page](https://longworthdental.ca/canada-dental-care-plan-cdcp/).

In this last blog post kicking off the Canada Dental Benefit, we are going over some Frequently Asked Questions. These questions were from a webinar held by the Federal Government for dental offices across Canada. Here they are, sorted with the most popular questions at the top! (In my opinion, that means the most interesting questions are at the bottom, because they are more unique!)

During this webinar, government representatives did note that these questions are helping them think about how they are designing the long-term dental program in Canada. The Canada Dental Benefit really is a cash-in-hand benefit to parents with children under the age of 12 (who meet the eligibility criteria).

And if you are just joining us now, feel free to jump back to [Part I](https://longworthdental.ca/jeremys-guide-to-the-canada-dental-benefit-part-i/) or [Part II](https://longworthdental.ca/jeremys-guide-to-the-canada-dental-benefit-part-ii/) for the basics of the program.

#### ****(Q01) Will the Federal Canada Dental Benefit change eligibility for any of the provincial dental programs? Is there any co-ordination of benefits between them? Which program will be the payor of last resort?**

There is no impact of the Canada Dental Benefit on existing provincial programs. Should a parent have to pay out-of-pocket expenses that are not covered by a provincial program, they can apply for the benefit (if they meet the eligibility criteria).

#### ****(Q02) What is required by the dental office for patients who receive benefits from this plan?**

The benefit is really putting money in the hands of parents, allowing them to pay for oral health care for their child. It doesn’t really change anything for the dental office.

#### ****(Q03) Does this benefit have its own fee guide, or does the office continue to charge the regular provincial fee guide?**

This benefit puts money directly in the hands of parents. Nothing changes on the office side of things. Offices maintain their regular fees.

#### ****(Q04) Can the dental office take assignment directly from the CRA, or does it accept payment upfront from the patient?**

No, this is a benefit for eligible families, to benefit their children’s oral health. To make it easier, families are able to apply for the benefit first, receive the payment, and then get treatment done by the dental office.

#### ****(Q05) How will this benefit affect those who are already on a provincial program (like Healthy Smiles in Ontario)?**

The Healthy Smiles program remains in effect. If parents have any additional out-of-pocket expenses, they can apply for the Canada Dental Benefit program as well.

#### ****(Q06) Is there a way for an office to check eligibility after the family/child has applied?**

The Federal Government has taken ownership of validating eligibility. Dental offices don’t have any further requirements. This is a direct benefit to the taxpayer, and any eligibility verification is between the CRA and the applicant, not with the oral healthcare provider.

#### ****(Q07) What documentation will parents have for providing the dental clinic with proof of eligibility? Will they receive a benefits card?**

There is no benefit card or proof of eligibility. Parents receive direct payment from the Federal Government to pay for oral health expenses.

#### ****(Q08) Will patients be expected to pay upfront and be responsible for reimbursement on their own? Or are we expected to allow patients to walk away with their bill and apply for this benefit, then return to pay the clinic?**

The eligible parent has the choice whether to apply for the benefit before or after the appointment. If they choose to, the parent can apply for the benefit, receive it, and then take the child in for treatment and pay at the time of service. Receiving payment for the benefit can take up to 10 business days by cheque (or 5 business days if the parent is registered for direct deposit).

#### ****(Q09) Is there a brochure the dental practice can provide to patients for this, showing where to apply for the benefit?**

Yes, there is a toolkit.

****Jeremy’s note:** We added the toolkit to the website in Part II of this series. [Click here to access it](https://longworthdental.ca/jeremys-guide-to-the-canada-dental-benefit-part-ii/).

#### ****(Q10) Can the money be used at any office for any type of treatment?**

The money can be used by parents to pay for treatment for their child at any regulated oral health professional.

#### ****(Q11) Will the federal plan co-ordinate with Ontario and other provinces to allow co-ordination of benefits on covered procedures?**

This is a temporary, interim benefit for a period of 2 years, until the government develops a more long-term program. It’s a fixed benefit, provided to parents. It doesn’t affect provincial programs. As long as the parent has out-of-pocket expenses, they can apply for the Canada Dental Benefit.

#### ****(Q12) How does this impact indigenous individuals who are eligible for dental benefits through the NIHB program? What considerations have been given to ensure that this program is not increasing the oral health inequity gap that already exists in Canada?**

Any families who have out-of-pocket expenses not covered by the NIHB program can apply for the Canada Dental Benefit, so long as they meet the eligibility criteria.

#### ****(Q13) Can a qualifying family with more than one child pool the total benefit allocated for each child, and utilize the benefit to the children whose dental needs are greatest?**

No, the benefit is intended to be used per child, per period.

#### ****(Q14) Patients pay us for their dental treatment. How long until the patient gets reimbursed from the government? What if the patient does not have the funds to pay up-front?**

As long as services are being done during the benefit period, parents can apply for the benefit prior to attending the appointment. There is flexibility for parents. If they have a treatment plan, they can get the benefit before having the treatment done.

#### ****(Q15) What is specifically covered under this dental plan? Specifically, are crowns, braces, or other treatments which are sometimes considered “cosmetic” covered?**

Any treatment covered by a regulated oral health care professional is covered. It really is cash in the hand of parents for oral health care services of a child under 12.

#### ****(Q16) What about new immigrants or refugees who have not filed income taxes? How can they apply?**

You must be a recipient of the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) in order to be eligible for the Canada Dental Benefit. We recognize that some newcomers or immigrants might not be eligible. They can apply for the CCB and provide a statement of income. It will be a bit of a process for them to go through before applying for the benefit.

#### ****(Q17) Will the dental benefit be extended to seniors and teens in 2023?**

The Canada Dental Benefit is an interim benefit, while we are waiting to build a longer-term program. The Federal Government wants to make that available to Canadians earning less than $90,000 in income by 2025\. The legislation for the Canada Dental Benefit is only for kids under age 12.

#### ****(Q18) Will children be eligible if they have private dental insurance which does not provide 100% coverage? For example, if coverage is 50% and parents are responsible for the other half?**

Within the eligibility criteria, if a child has private dental benefits, they would not be eligible for the Canada Dental Benefit.

#### ****(Q19) If a patient is eligible for a certain amount, and doesn’t utilize that full amount, what happens to that balance? For example, if they receive the full $650, but only have $400 of dental work needed?**

In that instance, we would encourage parents to seek additional oral health care for their child, or to invest in other oral health care products, such as a high-quality toothbrush.

#### ****(Q20) If a parent has a health spending account under which dental hygiene is only one of many services covered, is the child still eligible for the Canada Dental Benefit? If the other services (such as physical therapy, chiropractic, etc.) have used up the HSA, can the parent apply for the Canada Dental Benefit?**

A health spending account that is made available by an employer counts as insurance. The criteria that needs to be met isn’t “does my child have private dental benefits or not?” It’s “does my child have access to private dental benefits?” If, through your employer, you have access to a dental health spending account, then you should say no on that part of the application, and you would not be eligible for this benefit.

#### ****(Q21) It says on my dental office’s website that we have to book the appointment first, and then the patient’s family is asked to apply. Will the dental office be compensated if the patient does not show up to that appointment?**

The general answer here is no. Payment goes directly to the patient. The exception would be if the dental office has a policy in place where the patient must pay for an appointment if they fail to show up for their appointment. Either way, payment goes directly from the CRA to the applicant (not the dental office).

#### ****(Q22) If a child requires additional treatment beyond the amount given, is there a way to request additional funding?**

Parents and guardians can apply for a child once per benefit period. If a child requires additional oral health care, and if it requires two appointments (and if it can wait), then the parent could apply for that same child during the second benefit period (starting July 2023). If a family is in a bracket lower than $70,000 net income, then they could be eligible up to $650 per child for each benefit period. Because there is more confusion possible here, we would really encourage you to focus on the current benefit period now.

#### ****(Q23) What guarantees parents will actually use this money for dental benefits? Can parents cancel the appointment and use the money elsewhere?**

We do ask parents to attest that they will be using this money for dental care. Applicants should be prepared to provide proof upon request.

****Jeremy’s note:** These programs are all built on some level of trust. It’s true that in any system, someone (somewhere, sometime) will abuse the system. At the same time, I try to approach this from a perspective of compassion. These benefits are going to kids who really stand to benefit. Most parents care deeply about their children doing well.

#### ****(Q24) When and if private insurance carriers stop offering coverage for children as the Canadian Dental Plan rolls out fully, how does the government plan to deal with the dental care needs of those children previously covered by private insurance?**

This is one of those questions that is really focused on a long-term program. We want to make sure that any new program fits into the landscape of existing care. This is a temporary program, it’s directed at children under the age of 12\. It’s providing an additional source of cash-in-hand for parents who are already accessing oral health care for their children and who are paying out of pocket. We don’t foresee that there will be any big changes to existing coverage because of this benefit. The government’s focus is on filling the gaps.

#### ****(Q25) What is the process for quick approvals for emergency care?**

This is really a benefit for the applicant. If you need emergency care for your child, we would encourage you to do that right away and then apply for the benefit. There is no emergency program in place for the benefit itself. If you are on direct deposit, you can see your payment within 5 days.

#### ****(Q26) Is the Canada Dental Benefit available for parents with a combined income of $90,000, or is it $90,000 per parent?**

The benefit is based on combined net income. For the vast majority of people, it is their individual net income plus the net income of their spouse or common-law partner.

#### ****(Q27) Is the benefit renewed automatically or do parents need to re-apply in July 2023?**

It does not renew automatically. Parents need to provide dental care for their children. If the child doesn’t need oral health care, then the parent wouldn’t apply. And the child will need to be under the age of 12 on July 1st, 2023 to be eligible for the second benefit period.

#### ****(Q28) There is a shortage of dental staff recently, which may cause a delay in treatment. If a child has work done in June and again in July, do they have to reapply because the program dates start again on July 1, 2023?**

In this case, the child would be eligible for the benefit during both periods, so long as they are under the age of 12 on July 1, 2023.

#### ****(Q29) Given that children of lower socioeconomic status are burdened with poor oral health compared to their cohorts of higher socioeconomic status, has the additional cost of more dental treatment been taken into consideration?**

The benefit was calculated based on the average cost of treatment, and is the first step of the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring children get the oral health care they need. This is something we are considering for the Canada Dental Plan, which will be rolled out in the future.

#### ****(Q30) Does this benefit count as income? How is it taxed? Could receiving it cause some families to be over the income threshold for provincial programs (such as HSO CORE)?**

This is non-taxable, non-reportable income. The individual will not receive an income slip at the end of the year, and it will not be added to any other income.

#### ****(Q31) I am still confused about reimbursement. When would I need to reimburse the government? What if I don’t use the full amount? What if my child’s appointment goes slightly past the benefit period?**

If a patient receives $390 for their child’s dental care treatment, and only needs to pay $300, they would not be expected to reimburse the other $90\. However, if they have applied for the benefit during the benefit period, and they have not taken their child in for treatment during that period, then they would be expected to reimburse the full $390.

#### ****(Q32) If parents are divorced and living apart, is the benefit based on one parent’s income? What if one parent makes more than $90,000?**

The answer is anchored in how we issue the Canada Child Benefit. In cases where there is a shared custody agreement, each parent is eligible for 50% of the benefit. They each need to be independently eligible. Each parent would need to apply on their own.
### Jeremy’s guide to the Canada Dental Benefit (part II)
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/jeremys-guide-to-the-canada-dental-benefit-part-ii/
Last updated: 2026-07-10T02:39:25.000Z
****Note: this covers a program that has ended.** The Canada Dental Benefit (CDB) was a temporary benefit for children under 12, available from December 2022 through June 2024\. It has since been replaced by the permanent ****Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)**. For current eligibility and how to apply, see our [Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) page](https://longworthdental.ca/canada-dental-care-plan-cdcp/).

*Welcome to our launch guide on the Canada Dental Benefit! If you are reading this on or after December 1, 2022, it has already launched.* [*Click here to read Part I of this guide*](https://longworthdental.ca/jeremys-guide-to-the-canada-dental-benefit-part-i/)*, which is a high-level overview. Yesterday, we were able to attend a presentation hosted by the Federal Government on how the plan is rolling out to Canadians. We will share a good overview of how the plan works, and answer some of the big questions dentists were asking during the presentation.*

Video introduction to the Canada Dental Benefit.

## A Guide to the Canada Dental Benefit

The Canada Dental Benefit has been implemented by the Government of Canada to provide financial support so families can access dental care. It subsidizes basic dental care for young children while the Government continues to develop a long-term, Canada-wide dental care program.

![Infographic summarizing the Canada Dental Benefit: what it is, who can apply, and how to apply.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/canada-dental-benefit-guide.png)

## Overview of the Canada Dental Benefit

The Canada Dental Benefit is available over two benefit periods:

- October 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023, and
- July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024

To be eligible, the child needs to be under the age of 12 on December 1, 2022\. If this is the case, the Canada Dental Benefit will cover treatment as far back as October 1, 2022.

![Slide: the two Canada Dental Benefit periods, October 2022 to June 2024.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/canada-dental-benefit-overview.png)

## Eligibility for the Canada Dental Benefit

Here are the eligibility criteria for the first benefit period. As a parent or guardian applying for this benefit, the child in your care must have been born after December 2, 2010\. In other words, the child was less than 12 years old on December 1, 2022.

The Canada Dental Benefit does not impact existing federal or provincial programs. So, if you have access to dental care through (for example) Healthy Smiles, you are still eligible for the Canada Dental Benefit, so long as you have out-of-pocket expenses for your child’s oral health care.

In addition, you must have filed your 2021 tax return, and your family net income (your net income plus your spouse or partner’s net income) must have been less than $90,000 in 2021.

![Slide: Canada Dental Benefit eligibility (under 12, no private insurance, family income under $90,000).](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/canada-dental-benefit-eligibility.png)

## How to Apply for the Canada Dental Benefit

The easiest and most efficient way to apply for the Canada Dental Benefit is online, through your [CRA My Account](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/e-services/e-services-individuals/account-individuals.html?ref=longworthdental.ca). If you do not have access to this, the CRA also has a dedicated phone line: 1.800.715.8836\. While the CRA has a large number of agents available, they still expect long wait times on the phone. Once you are logged in, the system will walk you through the steps to validate your eligibility.

To apply, you will need:

- each eligible child’s dental care provider’s name, address and telephone number
- the expected date of the child’s dental appointment
- the employer’s name, address, and telephone number (if applicable)
- the spouse or common-law partner’s employer’s name, address and telephone number (if applicable)

![Slide: how to apply for the Canada Dental Benefit through CRA My Account.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/canada-dental-benefit-how-to-apply.png)

## How the Government Validates Applications for the Canada Dental Benefit

The CRA runs through a series of questions during the up-front verification process, and checks eligibility against their own data (for example, phone number, address, net income, and whether you receive the Canada Child Benefit for that child). If you need to reschedule your appointment during the same benefit period, you do not need to contact the CRA unless they ask for that information.

Verification work will be between the CRA and the applicant. The dental office would only be contacted in exceptional circumstances, like if a receipt seems questionable. (For example, “Dear Dental Office, is this a real receipt that you handed out?”)

![Slide: how the CRA validates Canada Dental Benefit applications.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/canada-dental-benefit-validating-applications.png)
### Jeremy’s guide to the Canada Dental Benefit (part I)
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/jeremys-guide-to-the-canada-dental-benefit-part-i/
Last updated: 2026-07-10T02:39:14.000Z
****Note: this covers a program that has ended.** The Canada Dental Benefit (CDB) was a temporary benefit for children under 12, available from December 2022 through June 2024\. It has since been replaced by the permanent ****Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)**. For current eligibility and how to apply, see our [Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) page](https://longworthdental.ca/canada-dental-care-plan-cdcp/).

This article is intended for parents and guardians who are looking to learn more about the recently introduced Canada Dental Benefit (CDB). There is a lot of information in this article which can become overwhelming. If you are struggling to apply for the benefit, or need help understanding its terms, *please contact us*. We believe in providing universal dental care for children, and we are happy to support you in your application process. Want to know more? [*Click here to read Part II*](https://longworthdental.ca/jeremys-guide-to-the-canada-dental-benefit-part-ii/).

---

We are still trying to navigate the terms of the new[ Federal Dental Benefit that recently became law](https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/federal-dental-care-officially-law-1.6655899?ref=longworthdental.ca). There is no doubt that this is a step in the right direction. We are hoping that 500,000 children under the age of 12 will take advantage of this program. It appears the Federal Government is trying to find a way to provide basic dental care to people, at the age when they need it the most. And their overall intention is even better: to develop a long-term, Canada-wide dental care program.

At the same time, we are creatures of habit. Whenever something new comes along, we tend to be skeptical. Our brains go, *So what’s the catch?* I’m not sure if there is really a catch in here; it is basically a grant, after all. There are a couple documents you’ll need to have ready in order to be able to apply. Without further ado, let’s dive into it!

## Who is Eligible for the Canada Dental Benefit?

The [Canada Dental Benefit](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/child-family-benefits/dental-benefit.html?ref=longworthdental.ca) (CDB) is a program to help lower dental costs for eligible families earning less than $90,000 per year. This program is for parents and guardians of children who:

- are under 12 years old and
- do not have access to a private dental insurance plan.

The benefit provides:

- $650 for each child in families earning less than $70,000 per year
- $390 for each child in families earning from $70,000 to $79,999 per year
- $260 for each child in families earning from $80,000 to $89,999 per year

![Bar chart: Canada Dental Benefit per child by family income. $650 under $70,000, $390 for $70,000–79,999, $260 for $80,000–89,999.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/cdb-benefit-by-income-1.svg)

This eligibility is for each child in the family. If you have shared custody of a child, you (and the other parent or guardian) are eligible for half of the benefit amount.

## When Can I Apply?

The Canada Dental Benefit (CDB) is meant to be a temporary solution as the Federal Government moves toward a more permanent solution, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), which they hope to extend to all eligible Canadians. The federal government is still figuring out how they’re going to run the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), how it will be taken care of, who will be responsible for it, what services will be covered, and how it will integrate with the existing Ontario government’s dental care programs.

Since Canada Dental Benefit (CDB) is temporary, it will only be available for 2 periods. The first period:

- starts on December 1, 2022 (as in, you can apply for the benefit starting on this date), and
- covers dental care received between October 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023 (so, if you’ve already taken your kid to the dentist in this time, you might already be able to apply)

In other words, applications open on December 1, 2022\. And if you’ve already taken your kid to the dentist after October 1, 2022, you are already eligible to apply. Otherwise, you’ve got until June 30, 2023 to get your child in, and then apply for the benefit.

The second period will open for applications on July 1, 2023\. It will cover dental care your child receives between July 1, 2023 and June 30, 2024.

## What Do I Need So I Can Apply?

Alright, so if you are ready to apply, there are a couple things you are going to need beforehand. Remember when your brain went, *So what’s the catch?* Well, this is it (sort of, I guess). You are going to need to fill out some paperwork. (And also, well, take your child to the dentist. I get it, I’ve got kids too, and they’re not a great financial investment. But every little bit helps, right?)

[If you want a handy questionnaire, the Federal Government has already built one for you, and you can click here to use it](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/child-family-benefits/dental-benefit.html?ref=longworthdental.ca). You will need to confirm that:

- Your child doesn’t have private insurance
- You will use the Canada Dental Benefit (CDB) to pay for those expenses
- You can provide receipts that you have paid at the time of service (if requested)

You will also need to provide the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) with:

- The name of your child’s provider (this will be on the receipt)
- The date of the appointment (also on the receipt)
- Information on your employer and your spouse/partner’s employer (if necessary)

## Should I Wait Until the Canada Dental Benefit or Canadian Dental Care Plan is Launched to Go to the Dentist?

Please don’t delay treatment. It’s significantly easier to catch and deal with problems now, rather than later. Also, the Canada Dental Benefit (CDB) has already started, so it’s basically **use it or lose it**.
### Amanda Germaine on the value of an in-house lab
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/amanda-germaine-value-in-house-lab/
Last updated: 2026-07-07T16:39:08.000Z
**Today, Amanda talks about how the in-house lab at Longworth Dental benefits the patient. She discusses the different pieces of technology involved in creating crowns, night guards, ortho fabrications, and bleaching trays.**

Let me take you for a little tour of our lab. When you come in, we have a *sintering furnace*. When you stain a crown, it has to go in this furnace at a very high temperature, at least 900 degrees, to bake it. It takes about 20 minutes.

![Dental sintering furnace baking a stained ceramic crown at Longworth Dental's in-house lab](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/2022-05-22_1_Sintering_Furnace_for_Glass_Ceramics-1.jpeg)

Longworth Dental's Sintering Furnace

If we continue on, we have our *Rapid Shape 3D printer*. We 3D-print models and night guards. At the moment, a model takes about 40 minutes to print, from the base all the way down to the incisal parts of the teeth, the very top of the tooth, the biting surface. It uses a laser and prints it that way. Night guards take 2.5 hours to print; they are made with a different material than model material, which is safe for the mouth.

![RapidShape 3D printer producing dental models and night guards](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/2022-05-22_2_RapidShape_3D_Printer_for_Night_Guards_and_Sports_Guards-3.jpeg)

![RapidShape UV unit curing printed dental models](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/2022-05-22_3c_RapidShape_Tanning_Bed_for_Models-1.jpeg)

![Wash station cleaning freshly printed models in isopropyl alcohol](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/2022-05-22_4b_RapidShape_Model_Wash-1.jpeg)

3D-printing, curing, and washing models and night guards on the RapidShape system.

Once it's done printing, it goes into a wash station, with 99% alcohol. It takes about 10 minutes to wash. Then, it goes into a cure, which looks like a little tanning bed and takes 5-8 minutes to cure into a state that it doesn't move any more.

Then, we have our *iMes iCore milling machine*, which mills crowns, bridges, basically anything you can think of. It has a little box at the end that's like its tool box. There's a bunch of different bits used to frame out a crown. It takes about 20 minutes to mill a simple crown.

![iMes iCore milling machine cutting crowns and bridges](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/2022-05-22_5a_iMes_iCore_Milling_Machine_-Not_In_Use--1.jpeg)

![A crown freshly milled at Longworth Dental's in-house lab](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/2022-05-22_5f_Milled_Crown.jpeg)

Milling crowns and bridges in-house on the iMes iCore machine.

The next machine is called a *dental furnace,* used for zirconia, which comes very big out of the mill in its green state. Once it goes into the sintering furnace, it shrinks down to fit the mouth. It takes about 5-7 hours at a very high temperature to sinter the zirconia. I usually stain the tooth first and then put it into the sinter and then polish it afterwards.

![Zirconia crowns sintering to full strength in the dental furnace](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/2022-05-22_6a_Dental_Furnace.jpeg)

![Zirconia crowns sintering to full strength in the dental furnace](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/2022-05-22_6b_Dental_Furnace.jpeg)

Sintering zirconia to full strength in the dental furnace.

We're making our own ortho aligners too! We design in-house, print the models and then vacuum-form the actual aligners. We trim it here too. The *Ministar* trims the aligners and polishes the night guards. Nightguards, bleaching trays, and ortho fabrication have improved so much with these new technologies and machines.

![Ministar unit sealing clear aligners and polishing night guards](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/2022-05-22_7_Ministar_Clear_Aligner_Sealer.jpeg)

![Model trimmer shaping printed dental models in the in-house lab](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/2022-05-22_8_Model_Trimmer.jpeg)

Sealing aligners and trimming models to finish orthodontic and night-guard work.
### Dr. Barr on enjoying the journey, not just the destination
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/dr-barr-on-enjoying-the-journey-not-just-the-destination/
Last updated: 2026-07-10T02:38:23.000Z
Dr. Barr is a seeker. Whether gardening, placing a crown, or being mom, she always wants to know more and gain knowledge by exploring the world around her. She is passionate about people, her patients, her colleagues, and her family. Making them feel seen and heard is one of her utmost priorities. In this blog post, she looks back at how her dentistry practice has evolved over time.

My kids teach me a lot about life. It’s funny, like, I sometimes use life coaches, therapists, mentors, or colleagues, but my kids probably teach me the most about life. They are very simple. Adara, for example, my eight year old, is very much into nature, and very grounded. She makes me do things like walk on the beach in Cobourg with my feet in the sand while everyone else is walking on the sidewalk. And, I don’t know, she just makes me feel really alive. Instead of work, work, work, all the time, she makes me smell the roses.

![Dr. Sharon Barr outdoors in a field.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/27/88/278883f2-ea0a-4e9f-a4f5-d12368a8857e/content/images/2026/07/sharon-in-field.jpg)

Getting outdoors is part of enjoying the journey.

I’m trying to go back to what life was like back in the day. My mom used to just sit and look at people walk. I don’t think we do that ever. We don’t have time. Now, there’s no time. But she used to just sit and people watch, and read and relax and enjoy life. She had time to do things like that. Whereas, we’re so much on our technology and we’re just overwhelmed and stressed and everyone is grinding and everyone needs night guards from the stress. We need to rewind and reverse what we’ve done as a society. I think Covid has done that for me. It’s given me a break to look at things.

So, yeah, I guess it’s a personal journey of almost 39 years now. The last ten years have been my dental journey, I guess, practicing for fourteen years. The first few years were nice because there were a lot of mentors and colleagues. Not until I started working alone did the real learning begin. You had to figure it all out. There was no one to ask. You just kinda feel a bit alone, but you figure it out along the way. ***You make mistakes, but you figure it out. And we made a lot of them, but we learned a lot***. Because you can’t learn without making mistakes.

I remember my dad saying, “Maybe you know, do a little bit at a time.” No, no, no, no, we like to just go in headfirst and do it all at once. House, baby, dental clinic, but we figured it out. There’s no good time to have a kid or start a practice so we just figured it out on the way.

Our practice was growing. One by one, we had more employees. We were an actual thing. We lasted past the one, two year mark so we were possibly a successful business. So, around that time, we met a few more people and more hygienists and we worked really well as a team. We hired an associate when I had my second baby and he stayed on until my third child, which was really nice. I really appreciated the help. It’s a lifestyle thing. I could work myself to the bone, and work every day of the week, but my back just couldn’t handle it and I wanted to be with my kids. I wanted part-time work and part-time life. I didn’t want work being the majority of my life. I just wanted to be present with my kids.

I actually started off wanting an office that was a great office. I wanted an office where patients and people loved to come to work. A home kind of feeling. It definitely had some rough days in the beginning. Four or five years in, I found some rocky issues because I let go of the ownership, I wasn’t there, I wasn’t present. I wasn’t clear what I needed or wanted. I didn’t want to stress people out. Because of that, I lost them. They found my associate, who was clear, was a better direction for them. That made it hard. They were used to another guy and who am I to come in? They looked at me as an outsider. That is not what I wanted. I didn’t know how to overcome this without letting my whole staff go. I didn’t think I even had the ability to fire somebody or tell somebody they couldn’t make a livelihood at my office. I didn’t think I had the right. But little did I know, some people did need to be let go. We gave everyone lots of time, but they resisted. We wanted to create a space of our own and we fought for what we wanted. We didn't let people go; they let themselves go and we just had to show them the door. It was the right decision.

Now, there is more alignment in our clinic. There is more respect. There is good culture and good culture just easily weeds out the bad culture. It stands out now when there is something wrong. When you see a little tiny fire, now, it’s easily managed. We have a lot of good team players.

If you treat your team well, they will treat your clients well and if the clients are treated well, they will just keep coming back. Something is there that they liked, that they enjoyed. People feel tension, they feel the lack of alignment and consistency. They hear it. If the team members are happy, patients can feel it.

Ultimately, I feel like with the patient, I put everything aside. I’m there, I’m doing dentistry and there’s nothing else. I need to take care of the patient. There’s a person under that mouth and inside that body for you to acknowledge, and that comes with experience, but it seems effortless now. It’s funny, you don’t realize how far you’ve come sometimes until you reflect. We’re so focused on the destination; we have the headlights on, but really, we should use the floodlights and look around us. ***The journey is the reward.***
### Dr. Zuhair Waheed, DDS
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/dr-zuhair-waheed/
Last updated: 2026-07-09T14:06:37.000Z
Dr. Zuhair Waheed graduated as a dentist in both Pakistan (2010) and Canada (2021), bringing diverse international experience to our practice. His expertise in digital dentistry and work as a dental technologist enhances collaboration with our lab. Dr. Waheed's commitment to advanced technologies allows him to provide precise, efficient treatment.
### Bella Morrison
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/bella-morrison/
Last updated: 2026-07-09T14:06:38.000Z
Bella is a Registered Dental Hygienist focused on preventive care and patient education. Her gentle approach helps patients feel comfortable during visits while receiving personalized guidance for optimal oral health. Bella's commitment to continuous learning ensures she stays current with the latest in dental hygiene advancements.
### Laura Pflanzer
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/laura-pflanzer/
Last updated: 2026-07-09T14:06:39.000Z
Laura is a Dental Receptionist with two decades in the dental field, including experience as a Certified Dental Assistant. Her comprehensive background enables efficient appointment management and exceptional patient service. Laura's friendly demeanour ensures patients feel valued from the moment they arrive at our practice.
### Take a tour of our Bowmanville office
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/bowmanville-office-tour/
Last updated: 2026-07-27T15:47:54.000Z
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A look through our Bowmanville office, where we are welcoming new patients.
### Emily Cooper
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/emily-cooper/
Last updated: 2026-07-14T21:11:15.000Z
Emily is our expert Office Manager. With two decades as a Certified Dental Assistant, Receptionist, and Treatment Coordinator, she ensures smooth practice operations. Emily serves on Durham College's Dental Program Advisory Committee while maintaining her commitment to excellent patient care.
### Amanda Germaine
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/amanda-germaine/
Last updated: 2026-07-09T14:06:40.000Z
Amanda is our Lab Manager and Certified Dental Assistant. She oversees our high-tech dental laboratory. Her expertise ensures all prosthetics and dental appliances are crafted with precision on-site, allowing for quick turnaround times and custom patient solutions. Amanda's integration of technology with patient care significantly enhances treatment outcomes and  
satisfaction.
### Dr. Sharon Barr, DMD
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/sharon-barr/
Last updated: 2026-07-09T14:06:41.000Z
Dr. Sharon Barr is our dedicated Principal Dentist with a passion for learning and excellence. Her patient-centered approach ensures everyone feels seen and heard. Dr. Barr's commitment to continuous improvement and delivering exceptional dental care makes her a trusted provider who prioritizes positive dental experiences for all patients.
### Jeremy Barr, MSc
URL: https://longworthdental.ca/jeremy-barr/
Last updated: 2026-07-09T14:40:19.000Z
Jeremy Barr (BSc, BEd, MSc) co-owns Longworth Dental, where he runs the business, finance, and technology side of the practice.

Outside work, Jeremy spends time with his wife Sharon and their three kids. In his spare time, he coaches and plays soccer, and runs long-distance.

He also enjoys learning. He holds a Master of Science in Applied Modelling and Quantitative Methods from Trent University in Peterborough (2025), as well as concurrent Bachelor of Science (Mathematics) and Bachelor of Education (Secondary Mathematics) degrees, both from the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (2010).