Should I book online or call my local 123Dentist clinic?

Many patients wonder whether it’s better to book online or call their local 123Dentist clinic. The best option depends on your needs, your schedule, and how comfortable you are using digital tools. Here’s how to decide what works best for you.

When it’s best to book online

Online booking is designed to be quick, convenient, and available whenever you are. It’s often the easiest choice if:

1. You want to book outside regular office hours

If you remember you’re due for a check-up at 10 p.m. or on a Sunday, you don’t need to wait until the clinic opens. You can visit your local 123Dentist clinic’s website and request an appointment online at any time.

2. You’re booking routine or straightforward visits

Online booking is ideal for:

Regular check-ups and cleanings
Follow-up visits recommended by your dentist
Basic consultations or non-urgent concerns
Cosmetic consultations such as whitening or Digital Smile Design (if offered at your clinic)

For these types of appointments, online request forms usually have all the options you need.

3. You prefer speed and flexibility

Booking online lets you:

View available dates or submit preferred time windows
Provide your contact details once, without having to spell them over the phone
Quickly enter notes or preferences (for example, requesting a specific dentist if available)

Many patients appreciate being able to complete the request in a few minutes without waiting on hold.

4. You’re comfortable sharing information digitally

Online forms will usually ask for basic details such as:

Your name and contact information
Whether you’re a new or existing patient
The type of appointment you’re requesting
Any relevant notes or questions

If you’re comfortable submitting this information through a secure form, online booking can be a very efficient option.

When it’s better to call your local 123Dentist clinic

A phone call is often the best choice when your situation is more complicated or time-sensitive. Consider calling if:

1. You have a dental emergency

Call your local 123Dentist clinic right away if you’re experiencing:

Severe toothache or facial pain
A broken or knocked-out tooth
Dental trauma or injury
Swelling, infection, or bleeding that worries you

Staff can help you understand how urgent your situation is, offer advice on what to do next, and work to find you the earliest possible appointment.

2. You have detailed questions about your care

If you need to talk through your situation before booking, a call is often easier. This includes:

Unsure which type of appointment you need
Questions about treatments (e.g., dental implants, whitening options, or Digital Smile Design)
Concerns about dental anxiety or past experiences
Special requirements such as mobility needs or accommodations

Speaking directly with the team allows them to guide you to the right type and length of appointment.

3. You want to discuss fees, insurance, or the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)

For anything related to payment or coverage, calling is usually best. Your local clinic can help with questions like:

Do you accept patients covered under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
What dental services are covered under the CDCP at this location?
How does billing work with my insurance or benefits plan?
What are my options if I don’t have dental insurance?

Because coverage and fees can vary, the clinic team is the best source of accurate, up-to-date information for your situation.

4. You need to change or cancel an appointment on short notice

If your appointment is soon and you need to adjust it, calling is the fastest way to:

Reschedule
Confirm details
Notify the clinic of delays or last-minute issues

This helps the team manage their schedule and may open up appointments for other patients.

5. You prefer a more personal conversation

Some patients simply feel more comfortable speaking to a person. Calling your local clinic is a good choice if you:

Feel nervous about dental visits and want reassurance
Have several questions you’d like answered at once
Want to confirm you’ll see a specific dentist or hygienist (where possible)

The team can offer personalized guidance and help you feel more at ease before your visit.

How online booking and phone calls work together

You don’t have to choose one method forever. Many patients:

Book routine visits online, then
Call for follow-up questions, emergencies, or complex needs

If you start with an online request and the clinic needs more information, a team member may call or email you to confirm details, discuss your needs, or offer alternative appointment times.

New and existing patients: what to consider

New patients

If you’re visiting a 123Dentist clinic for the first time:

Online booking is convenient if you’re scheduling a standard new patient exam and cleaning.
Calling is helpful if you have specific concerns (such as pain, cosmetic goals, or past dental anxiety) and want to make sure the clinic understands your situation before your first visit.

Existing patients

If you already know the clinic and your provider:

Online booking works well for regular check-ups, cleanings, or recommended follow-ups.
Calling is helpful if you’re following up on a recent procedure, changing a treatment plan, or coordinating with specific providers or family appointments.

How to decide: quick guide

Use this quick summary to help you choose:

Book online if:
- Your visit is routine or non-urgent
- You want to request an appointment anytime, day or night
- You’re comfortable using a secure online form
Call your local 123Dentist clinic if:
- You have pain, trauma, or an urgent concern
- You need guidance on which appointment type is right for you
- You have questions about CDCP coverage, insurance, fees, or payment
- You need to change or cancel an upcoming appointment
- You prefer to speak with someone directly

Whichever option you choose, your local 123Dentist team is there to help you find the right appointment and support your oral health.