Dr. Alexander John Lock – Dentist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Alexander John Lock is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at Roncesvalles Dental Centre in Toronto, ON, Dr. Lock is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Lock is licensed by The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in ON. Dr. Lock provides a wide range of dental services for patients of all ages, including preventative care, routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, crowns, bridges, root canal treatments (non-specialist), and basic extractions, focused on maintaining overall oral health. Dr. Lock also provides comprehensive general dental care with various certified levels of sedation (such as nitrous oxide/'laughing gas', oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on specific qualifications) to help anxious patients, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals undergoing extensive procedures feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable throughout their dental treatment.

Dr. Alexander John Lock earned a Dental Degree from Case Western Reserve University, graduating in 1998. With over 25 years of practice since 2000, Dr. Lock offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: Minimal Nitrous; N/A. Dr. Lock is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Lock's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Lock provides consultations in English.

Dr. Alexander John Lock provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Tooth decay in infants and young children, often affecting the upper front teeth, requiring early intervention and preventative strategies.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.

Gag Reflex Management

• Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Looking for a dentist experienced in specific techniques and approaches to help patients with sensitive gag reflexes receive comfortable and effective treatment.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Lock. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Thorough dental cleanings by a registered dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and surface stains, promoting healthy gums and teeth.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Replacing one or more missing teeth with a fixed (non-removable) dental bridge, typically anchored to adjacent natural teeth (abutments) or dental implants, to restore chewing function, maintain tooth alignment, and improve smile aesthetics.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Personalized instruction and demonstration of proper brushing and flossing techniques to effectively remove plaque and maintain optimal oral hygiene at home.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Essential maintenance services to extend the life and performance of your dentures, ensuring they continue to serve you well and comfortably.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Lock. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any treatment depends on individual assessment. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific dental needs, please schedule a consultation.

All dental services by Dr. Alexander John Lock adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in ON and standards of The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO).

At Roncesvalles Dental Centre, the focus is on partnering with you to achieve significant improvements in your oral health, address your specific dental concerns, and help you attain your desired smile. Dr. Lock frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Many people seek Dr. Lock's professional help and expertise when dealing with a persistent white patch (leukoplakia) or red patch (erythroplakia) in their mouth or on their tongue that wouldn't go away and needed urgent assessment. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently feeling well-equipped with advice on how to care for their toddler's developing teeth, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to enjoying a cold ice cream or a hot cup of coffee without wincing from tooth sensitivity.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing an interest in straightening their teeth but a strong preference for avoiding traditional metal braces, exploring clear aligner options, involves working systematically towards their infected tooth being successfully saved from extraction through root canal treatment. Dr. Lock expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including their child looking forward to dental visits rather than fearing them.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of wondering if their child might need braces or orthodontic assessment for crooked teeth, Dr. Lock offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach having a custom-fitted sports mouthguard to protect their smile during athletic activities. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort.
• If a dental problem or discomfort that they had been avoiding or putting off addressing for far too long is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Lock develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at an impacted tooth being successfully managed or removed, preventing future pain, infection, or damage to other teeth. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy concentrating fully on their work or studies without the distraction of dental discomfort.

Your personalized dental treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Lock, will be carefully designed to help you reach your specific functional, aesthetic, and overall oral wellness objectives. Dr. Lock is committed to empowering patients with the information and high-quality care needed to achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile for life.

Roncesvalles Dental Centre, where Dr. Lock practices, is situated in the Parkdale, Roncesvalles neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Ontario Legislative Building and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

In Ontario, provincial health plans like OHIP typically do not cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics for the general population. Some specific, limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients – like Healthy Smiles Ontario). Always verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

What services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Lock typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Lock is the primary dental care provider, offering preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial gum disease management, and cosmetic procedures (if offered). They educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for complex needs. Dr. Lock may also offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options based on additional training.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, especially modern digital X-rays using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Lock determines the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) guidelines.

I'm very anxious about dental visits. Does Dr. Lock offer any sedation options?

Yes, Dr. Lock understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety. Roncesvalles Dental Centre offers various sedation options, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas). Please discuss your anxiety with Dr. Lock during your consultation to determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

Do I need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Lock?

Typically, no referral is needed to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Contact Roncesvalles Dental Centre directly.

What should I do if I have a dental emergency outside of Roncesvalles Dental Centre's regular office hours?

For life-threatening emergencies (severe bleeding, difficulty breathing), go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911. For urgent, non-life-threatening issues (severe toothache, knocked-out tooth, abscess), call (416) 530-2400. Our voicemail may provide instructions for emergency contact or direct you to an emergency dental service.

How often should I (or my child) visit Dr. Lock for a check-up and cleaning?

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Lock will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual needs and risk factors. Follow Dr. Lock's specific recommendation.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Lock at Roncesvalles Dental Centre?

Expect to fill out a medical history form, discuss dental issues or goals, and undergo a detailed examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Lock will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

Roncesvalles Dental Centre
235 Roncesvalles Ave
Toronto, ON, M6R 2L6

Phone: (416) 530-2400

Dr. Alexander John Lock is a licensed Dentist in ON, regulated by The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Dentistry Act, 1991 (Ontario).

License Number: 48854

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=48854

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining overall health. Dr. Lock and the team are committed to providing you with comprehensive dental care. If you have a dental emergency, please contact the clinic promptly. For after-hours emergencies that are life-threatening, proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department.