New to Markham? How to Find & Register with a Family Dentist Quickly

Moving to a new city means rebuilding your local network of services from scratch your family doctor, your pharmacy, your dentist. Of these, finding a new family dentist in Markham is one that many families postpone longer than they should.

It is understandable life is busy during a move. But popular family dental practices in Markham can have waitlists for new patients, particularly for routine slots. The longer you wait to register, the longer you may wait for that first appointment. And in the meantime, if a dental emergency occurs, being registered with a local dentist makes an enormous practical difference.

This guide gives Markham newcomers a clear, step-by-step process for finding and registering with the right family dentist quickly including what to ask, how to transfer your records, what insurance options are available in Ontario, and what OHIP actually covers (the answer may surprise you).

How Do I Find a New Family Dentist in Markham?

Finding a family dentist in Markham is easier than finding a family physician there is no central registry waitlist, and most practices accept new patients directly. Here is the most efficient process:

Step 1 Start With a Geographic Search

Begin with location. A dental practice that is conveniently located near your home, your workplace, or your children's school in Markham is one you will actually visit consistently. A practice that requires a cross-city commute at 6 PM on a weeknight is one you will gradually stop attending.

Search family dentist markham or dentist near me in Google Maps and filter for practices near your neighbourhood. Note the hours offered extended Thursday and Friday evenings, or Saturday availability, are particularly valuable for working parents managing children's appointments.

Step 2 Confirm They Are Accepting New Patients

Not all Markham dental practices with open websites are currently accepting new patients for routine care. Call or check the practice website specifically to confirm current availability. Ask:

• Are you currently accepting new patients?

• How quickly could I get in for a new patient examination?

• Do you have availability for my whole family, including children?

A practice that cannot see you for a new patient examination within four to six weeks of calling may have a waitlist that does not serve your needs as a newcomer needing to establish care quickly.

Step 3 Confirm Insurance Acceptance and Billing

Before your first appointment, confirm that the practice accepts your specific dental insurance plan. Do not assume insurance acceptance varies significantly between Markham practices. Ask:

• Do you accept [your specific plan/provider]?

• Do you offer direct billing so I only pay my portion?

• Are you registered with the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

Direct billing where the practice submits the insurance claim on your behalf and you pay only your portion at the appointment is a significant practical convenience. Most reputable Markham family dental practices offer this, but it is worth confirming before booking.

Step 4 Assess the Practice for Your Family's Needs

Once you have confirmed availability and insurance practicalities, assess whether the practice is the right fit for your family specifically. Key questions:

• Do they see patients of all ages, including infants and young children?

• Do they have experience with anxious or nervous patients?

• What languages does the team speak? (Particularly relevant in Markham's diverse community many practices have team members fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin, Tagalog, and other languages)

• What is their emergency protocol for after-hours situations?

• Are they accepting CDCP patients if you or a family member qualifies?

Step 5 Book and Confirm Your First Appointment

Once you have identified the right practice, book a new patient examination for all family members ideally at connected or back-to-back appointment times to minimise the number of trips. Complete any new patient forms the practice sends in advance this saves time on the day and ensures the dentist has your health history before the examination begins.

At Hwy7 Family Dentistry, located at 4560 Hwy 7 E, Unit 500, Unionville, Markham, we are currently accepting new patients of all ages. We offer extended Thursday evening hours until 9 PM and Saturday appointments from 9 AM to 4 PM, and our multilingual team serves Markham's diverse community across a range of languages. Call us at (905) 604-1995 or book online.

How to Transfer Your Dental Records to a New Markham Dentist

Transferring your dental records from your previous dentist is one of the most valuable things you can do when registering with a new practice and one of the most frequently overlooked by patients who are simply glad to have found someone new.

Your dental records contain X-rays, treatment histories, periodontal measurements, and notes on specific conditions (grinding, sensitivity, anxiety) that allow your new dentist to provide continuity of care from the very first visit, rather than starting completely from scratch.

How to request your records:

1. Contact your previous dental practice and request a copy of your dental records including all X-rays taken in the last two to three years.

2. Provide written consent most practices require a signed release form before they can transfer records. Many now handle this electronically.

3. Ask for the records to be sent directly to your new Markham dentist rather than to you personally this is simpler and ensures digital files transfer cleanly.

4. Confirm what format is needed your new dentist will advise whether they need digital X-ray files, printed records, or both.

In Ontario, patients have a legal right to access their own dental records. Your previous dentist must provide them, though they may charge a small administrative fee (typically $25–$50) for the copying and transfer. If your previous dentist is in another city or province, the process is the same the transfer typically takes five to ten business days.

Your new Markham family dentist will usually help facilitate this process simply ask at the time of booking and they will send the relevant consent forms and contact details.

Does OHIP Cover Dentist Visits in Ontario?

This is the most commonly asked question by newcomers to Ontario and the answer is one of the most important things to understand before your first dental appointment in Markham.

Generally no, the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) does not cover dental services. OHIP does not cover routine dental care, including checkups, cleanings, fillings, or extractions for the general population. OHIP only covers dental procedures performed in a hospital under specific medical circumstances. ElevatekidsdentalCleveland Clinic

While OHIP provides excellent coverage for most hospital and physician services, it generally does not cover visits to the dentist unless the situation is considered a medical emergency. It does cover certain dental procedures, but only when medically necessary and performed in a hospital setting for example, if you have a severe dental infection, fractured jaw, or trauma requiring surgery. Markham Town Dental

This surprises many patients particularly newcomers from countries where dental care is integrated into national health systems. In Ontario, routine dental care is not publicly funded for most adults. You are responsible for costs through private insurance, government programs (where eligible), or direct payment.

The Ontario Dental Association confirms: OHIP is Ontario's health care plan but it does not cover dental care, with the notable exception of some in-hospital dental surgeries such as fracture repairs, tumour removal, and reconstructive surgery. Inglewood Family Dental

What Are Your Dental Coverage Options in Markham?

Not having OHIP dental coverage does not mean you are on your own. Ontario offers several alternative coverage pathways depending on your situation:

Private Extended Health Benefits (Most Common)

If you are employed, check whether your employer offers a group benefits plan that includes dental coverage. This is the most common source of dental insurance in Canada. Group plans typically cover preventive care at 80–100% and basic restorative work at 50–80% after the deductible. Confirm with your HR department what your specific plan covers and which Markham practices are in-network or accept direct billing for your plan. Markham Smile Centre

Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)

The CDCP is a federal program launched in 2024 that provides dental coverage for eligible Canadians who do not have private dental insurance. OHIP only covers dental procedures performed in a hospital under specific medical circumstances. To access the CDCP, visit canada.ca/dental to check your eligibility and apply online. You will need your most recent tax return information. My Dental Home

Key eligibility criteria for the CDCP:

• Canadian resident with a valid provincial health card

• No access to private dental insurance through an employer or association

• Adjusted family net income under $90,000

Adults with income under $70,000 receive up to $2,300 per year in coverage. Adults with income between $70,000 and $90,000 receive partial coverage with co-payments. This is not entirely free, but it substantially reduces the cost for eligible patients. My Dental Home

Dental clinics must choose to participate in the CDCP participation is voluntary for dentists. When looking for a dentist who accepts the CDCP in Ontario, it is important to confirm participation before booking, as not all clinics in the GTA or across Ontario are participating providers. Always ask when calling whether the practice is CDCP-registered. PubMed Central

Healthy Smiles Ontario (Children and Youth)

Healthy Smiles Ontario provides free dental care for eligible children and youth under 17 from low-income families in Ontario. Coverage includes examinations, X-rays, cleanings, sealants, and basic restorative care. Children in families receiving Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support qualify automatically. BrightviewdentalcareBrightviewdentalcare

The income cutoff for Healthy Smiles Ontario varies by family size. Contact York Region Public Health at 1-800-361-5653 for current eligibility criteria applicable to Markham families.

Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP)

The Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program provides free, routine dental services for low-income seniors who are 65 years of age or older. Eligible seniors can access services including exams, cleanings, fillings, X-rays, root canals, and tooth extraction through registered providers. Income eligibility applies contact your local ServiceOntario or York Region Public Health for current thresholds. Inglewood Family Dental

Ontario Works and ODSP Dental Coverage

Adults receiving Ontario Works or ODSP may be eligible for limited dental coverage through their case worker. Coverage is restricted to basic and emergency dental procedures. Speak with your case worker for details on what is covered and how to access it. Markham Smile Centre

University Dental Clinics (Low-Cost Option)

The University of Toronto's Faculty of Dentistry operates dental specialty clinics where Doctor of Dental Surgery students work with professional licensed clinical instructors to provide low-cost dental care. While not in Markham, this is worth knowing for uninsured patients facing significant dental costs. The Schulich Dental Clinic at Western University in London offers similar low-cost care. Inglewood Family Dental

Pay Out of Pocket (With Fee Guide Transparency)

If you are paying out of pocket, most reputable Markham practices price within the Ontario Dental Association Suggested Fee Guide. A routine examination and cleaning typically costs $200–$350 out of pocket in Markham. Always ask for a written estimate before agreeing to any treatment beyond the examination.

Quick Coverage Decision Tree for New Markham Residents

Use this to identify your most likely coverage pathway:

Do you have dental benefits through an employer or union? → Yes: Use your group plan. Confirm which Markham practices direct-bill your specific insurer.

No employer plan what is your adjusted family net income? → Under $70,000 with no private insurance: Apply for CDCP at canada.ca/dental you likely qualify for substantial coverage. → $70,000–$90,000 with no private insurance: Apply for CDCP partial coverage with co-payments applies. → Over $90,000 with no private insurance: Pay out of pocket; ask about payment plans and ODA fee guide alignment.

Do you have children under 17? → If family income qualifies: Apply for Healthy Smiles Ontario through York Region Public Health.

Are you 65+ with lower income? → Check eligibility for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program.

Receiving Ontario Works or ODSP? → Contact your case worker you have access to basic dental benefits.

Why Register Quickly Even If Nothing Hurts

Many newcomers to Markham take the approach of waiting until something hurts before finding a dentist. This is understandable but creates several practical problems:

Waitlists for new patients. Popular family practices in Markham can have waitlists for new patients, especially for routine slots. Registering now even if you don't need an appointment immediately secures your place in the practice before the queue lengthens. Dr. Salim Nasser

Emergency situations are worse without an established relationship. If you develop a toothache, break a tooth, or face a genuine dental emergency in Markham, being an established patient at a local practice makes same-day access dramatically easier. Emergency slots are almost always prioritised for existing patients. For a full guide to what counts as a dental emergency and where to find urgent care in Markham, see our dental emergency guide.

Problems caught early are less expensive to treat. A routine examination often identifies small issues an early cavity, early gum disease, a developing wisdom tooth concern that are simple and inexpensive to address now, and significantly more complex later.

Your dental records don't transfer automatically. Until you are registered with a Markham practice and your previous records have been transferred, your new dentist is treating you without important context. The sooner that transfer happens, the better.

What Happens at Your First New Patient Appointment in Markham

A new patient examination at a comprehensive Markham family dental practice typically involves:

• A full set of diagnostic X-rays bitewing and periapical views to assess all teeth and bone levels

• A comprehensive oral examination reviewing all teeth, gums, jaw joints, and soft tissues including an oral cancer screening

• A periodontal assessment measuring gum pocket depths to establish your baseline gum health

• Review of your medical history and medications important for understanding systemic factors that affect dental care

• A cleaning either at the same appointment or scheduled shortly after

• A treatment plan discussion explaining any findings, prioritising any concerns, and presenting costs and timelines for any treatment needed

The first appointment typically takes 60–90 minutes. Completing your new patient forms in advance significantly reduces the administrative portion of this time. Ask the practice whether forms can be completed online or sent in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a new family dentist in Markham? Search for family dentists near your Markham neighbourhood, confirm they are accepting new patients and can see you within a reasonable timeframe, confirm insurance acceptance and direct billing, assess whether the practice serves your family's full age range and language needs, and book a new patient examination for all family members at connected appointment times. Popular practices fill up acting quickly after moving is worthwhile.

Does OHIP cover dentist visits in Ontario? 

No OHIP does not cover routine dental care including check-ups, cleanings, fillings, extractions, or most other dental services provided in a dentist's office. OHIP only covers dental procedures performed in a hospital when medically necessary, such as jaw fracture repair or surgery for facial tumours. Routine dental care in Ontario is funded through private insurance, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (for eligible uninsured residents), Healthy Smiles Ontario (for eligible children under 17), the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (for eligible low-income seniors), or paid out of pocket.

How do I transfer my dental records to a new Markham dentist? 

Contact your previous dental practice and request a copy of your records including recent X-rays. Provide written consent for the transfer most practices now handle this electronically. Ask your new Markham dentist to contact your previous practice directly; they will typically send the relevant release forms as part of the new patient registration process. The transfer usually takes five to ten business days.

How quickly can I get a new patient appointment in Markham? 

This varies by practice. Some Markham dental practices can see new patients within one to two weeks; others that are popular or busy may have longer waits for routine new patient examinations. Call two or three practices to compare availability and register with the one that can see you most promptly.

Can I use the Canadian Dental Care Plan at any Markham dentist? 

No CDCP participation is voluntary for dentists in Ontario. Not all Markham practices are registered CDCP providers. Always confirm CDCP participation when calling to book, and check the Government of Canada's CDCP provider directory at canada.ca/dental if you need help finding a registered provider near you.

What should I bring to my first dental appointment in Markham? 

Bring your provincial health card (OHIP card), your dental insurance card or plan information, a list of any medications you are currently taking, the name and contact information of your previous dental practice (so records can be requested), and completed new patient forms if the practice has sent them in advance. If you have had recent dental X-rays taken elsewhere and can bring them, even better.

Register With Hwy7 Family Dentistry Markham's Unionville Family Practice

Whether you have just moved to Markham, recently moved within the city, or have simply been without a regular dentist for too long registering with a trusted local family practice is one of the most practical health decisions you can make for your family this year.

Hwy7 Family Dentistry is located at 4560 Hwy 7 E, Unit 500, Unionville, Markham a comprehensive, independently owned family dental practice serving patients of all ages. We are registered with the Canadian Dental Care Plan, accept most major insurance plans with direct billing, offer extended Thursday evening hours until 9 PM and Saturday availability, and are currently accepting new patients.

📞 Call us at (905) 604-1995 we will get you and your family booked in quickly. 🌐 Register as a new patient online