Dr. Alexandre Kostirko – Dentist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Alexandre Kostirko is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at Bloor West Smiles Dental in Toronto, ON, Dr. Kostirko is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Kostirko 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. Kostirko 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. Kostirko 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. Alexandre Kostirko earned a Dental Degree from Lviv Med.Inst., graduating in 1980. With over 36 years of practice since 1989, Dr. Kostirko 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. Kostirko is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. Dr. Kostirko serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. For patient convenience, direct billing to many major dental insurance plans may be available at Bloor West Smiles Dental.

Key aspects of Dr. Kostirko's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Kostirko provides consultations in English.

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

Gag Reflex Management

• Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Seeking strategies, desensitization techniques, or appropriate sedation options to manage a strong gag reflex during necessary dental care.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Seeking a pediatric dental specialist or a general dentist with significant experience and resources in providing safe, effective, and compassionate dental care for children with unique and complex needs, potentially including the use of advanced behavior guidance techniques or sedation/anesthesia.
• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Children with significant systemic health conditions (e.g., organ transplants, cancer, uncontrolled diabetes) who require careful dental management and coordination with their medical specialists to prevent oral complications and ensure dental treatments are performed safely.

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

• Nitrous Oxide Sedation ('Laughing Gas'): Helping patients of most ages feel significantly calmer, more relaxed, and at ease during their dental treatment with the use of nitrous oxide sedation.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Comprehensive advice on preventing gum inflammation and infection for lifelong oral health and overall well-being.
• Intravenous (IV) Sedation (Moderate or 'Twilight' Sedation - If Certified): Offering IV sedation, administered and monitored by a qualified provider, for patients requiring a higher level of anxiolysis, amnesia, and comfort to complete their dental care safely.
• 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. Kostirko. 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. Alexandre Kostirko adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in ON and standards of The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO).

At Bloor West Smiles Dental, 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. Kostirko frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Understanding the frustration a wish to improve the aesthetics of their smile for an upcoming special life event, such as a wedding or graduation can cause, Dr. Kostirko tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve feeling refreshed and clean after a thorough professional dental cleaning and check-up, allowing for renewed participation in activities like speaking clearly and confidently in professional meetings or social gatherings.
• For patients where a noticeable gap between their front teeth that they had always wished to close is a primary concern, Dr. Kostirko focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully concentrating fully on their work or studies without the distraction of dental discomfort.
• Patients presenting with noticing a concerning dark spot on one of their teeth, possibly a cavity can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their child's toothache being resolved, and the tooth saved with appropriate treatment under Dr. Kostirko's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume feeling relief from chronic headaches that were linked to their TMJ or bruxism without the former limitations or discomfort.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Kostirko about a tooth that had become very dark or discolored, perhaps after a past injury or previous root canal treatment is to attain their sensitive teeth becoming much less reactive to hot and cold, making eating enjoyable again. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like passing on good oral hygiene habits and a positive attitude towards dental care to their children.

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

Dr. Kostirko's practice, Bloor West Smiles Dental, is situated in the Runnymede, Swansea neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Union Station and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Kostirko for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Bloor West Smiles Dental.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Kostirko at Bloor West Smiles Dental?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Kostirko and the team at Bloor West Smiles Dental will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Kostirko will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

What should I do if I have a dental emergency outside of Bloor West Smiles Dental's regular office hours?

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency (e.g., severe uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing due to facial swelling, significant facial trauma), please go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911 immediately. For urgent dental issues that are not life-threatening but require prompt attention outside of Bloor West Smiles Dental’s hours (such as severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, a dental abscess with moderate swelling, or a broken tooth causing sharp pain), please call our main office number at (416) 766-2853. Our voicemail message may provide instructions for emergency contact with Dr. Kostirko or another on-call dentist, or direct you to an emergency dental service available in the Toronto area.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Kostirko is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services including: 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 management of gum disease, and cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding if offered). Dr. Kostirko also educates patients on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs. They may offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options based on additional training.

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

Yes, Dr. Kostirko understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, Bloor West Smiles Dental may offer various sedation options. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Kostirko during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

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

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

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

In ON, 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). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Kostirko will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals). Follow Dr. Kostirko's specific recommendation.

Bloor West Smiles Dental
2 Jane St #505
Toronto, ON, M6S 4W3

Phone: (416) 766-2853

Dr. Alexandre Kostirko 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: 11302

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=11302

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining overall health. Dr. Kostirko 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.