Dr. Alexandria Irene Meriano – Dentist | Windsor, ON

Dr. Alexandria Irene Meriano is a Pediatric Dentist. Practicing at Dental Studio Pediatrics in Windsor, ON, Dr. Meriano is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Meriano 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. As a certified specialist in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Meriano provides comprehensive and specialized preventative and therapeutic oral health care exclusively for infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special health care needs. This includes behavior guidance, sedation, and treatment of early childhood caries and developmental dental issues. Dr. Meriano 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 Dental Studio Pediatrics.

Dr. Alexandria Irene Meriano earned a Dental Degree from University Of Detroit Mercy, graduating in 1998. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Paediatric Dentist at the Wayne State University in 2001. With over 24 years of practice since 2001, Dr. Meriano is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. Dr. Meriano's commitment to professional development ensures that patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Meriano's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; 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. Dr. Meriano provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Alexandria Irene Meriano addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Specialized considerations for dental treatment in pediatric patients with underlying illnesses.
• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Requiring specialized dental management and a tailored care approach for children and adolescents with underlying medical conditions (e.g., congenital heart disease, bleeding disorders, immunocompromise), physical disabilities (e.g., cerebral palsy), cognitive or developmental challenges (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome), or significant behavioral issues that make routine dental treatment difficult.

Early Childhood Caries

• Aggressive Tooth Decay (Cavities) in Infants & Toddlers (ECC): Addressing severe and early-onset tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment plans, focusing on caries control, pain relief, and strong parental education on prevention.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Requiring advanced three-dimensional imaging to precisely visualize teeth, bone structures, nerve pathways, sinuses, and TMJ in intricate detail.

Childhood Dental Conditions

• Comprehensive Dental Needs of Infants, Children, and Adolescents: Seeking a pediatric dental specialist for comprehensive preventative (cleanings, fluoride, sealants), restorative (fillings, crowns for primary teeth), and emergency dental care for young patients.

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

• Comprehensive Oral Health Care for Infants, Children & Adolescents: Expert management of all aspects of children's oral health, focusing on prevention, early intervention, and positive dental experiences.
• Dental Care for Children with Special Health Care Needs: Providing compassionate and customized dental care for children with physical, developmental, cognitive, or medical special needs, adapting treatment approaches to their unique requirements.
• Pediatric Sedation Dentistry (Nitrous Oxide, Oral Sedation, IV Sedation, General Anesthesia - Specialist Setting): Specialized pediatric sedation and anesthesia services to enable complex or lengthy dental work to be completed effectively and humanely for challenging cases.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Meriano. 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. Alexandria Irene Meriano adhere to scope of practice for Pediatric Dentists in ON and standards of The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO).

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Meriano is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dental Studio Pediatrics, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• When a noticeable gap between their front teeth that they had always wished to close begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Meriano helps patients strive for their previously sensitive exposed tooth roots being protected and desensitized. This makes participating in activities such as easily maintaining their daily oral hygiene routine without experiencing bleeding or pain a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Effectively addressing experiencing diffuse facial pain or muscle tenderness that they suspected might be related to their jaw joint or bite with Dr. Meriano's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of receiving clear dental clearance before a major medical procedure, ensuring their overall health is prioritized, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in their dental implants feeling and functioning just like their natural teeth and social interactions.
• Many people seek Dr. Meriano's professional help and expertise when dealing with needing practical advice and guidance on how to properly care for their toddler's newly erupted first teeth. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently their slightly crooked front teeth being straightened effectively with a conservative cosmetic option, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to their child being excited to show off their newly sealed or filled tooth to friends.
• For those affected by a tooth that suddenly became extremely and uncharacteristically sensitive to cold water or air, causing sharp pain, Dr. Meriano provides solutions that lead to their recurrent canker sores becoming less frequent or less severe with management strategies. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to biting into sandwiches or other challenging foods with complete confidence.

Your specialized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Meriano, will be meticulously designed to address your unique concerns and help you reach your specific objectives within their area of expertise. Dr. Meriano is committed to providing the highest standard of specialized care, tailored to your individual needs.

Dental Studio Pediatrics, where Dr. Meriano practices, is situated in the Walkerville, Ottawa Street Village neighborhood of Windsor. The clinic is conveniently located near Windsor Regional Hospital - Metropolitan Campus and is accessible via Transit Windsor. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see a dental specialist (e.g., Orthodontist, Periodontist)?

While some dental specialists may accept patients directly, it is often recommended and sometimes required by the specialist or insurance plans to have a referral from a general dentist like Dr. Meriano. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Meriano identifies a need for specialist care,  they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. If unsure, check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider.

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. Meriano 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).

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Meriano will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, 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). Always follow Dr. Meriano's specific recommendation.

How does Dr. Meriano as a Pediatric Dentist manage children with dental anxiety or special healthcare needs?

Dr. Meriano has specialized training in behavior guidance techniques (tell-show-do, positive reinforcement, distraction) and creates a child-friendly environment. Dr. Meriano has experience with patients with various needs. Options like nitrous oxide may be available to manage anxiety; for more complex cases, referral for deeper sedation or general anesthesia may be considered. A patient and gentle approach is always emphasized.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Meriano at Dental Studio Pediatrics?

Your first visit will typically involve a comprehensive dental examination, including a review of your medical and dental history, a thorough check of your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues (including an oral cancer screening), and any necessary X-rays. Dr. Meriano will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed or scheduled.

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

No, a referral is typically not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Contact Dental Studio Pediatrics directly to arrange your visit with Dr. Meriano.

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. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance, or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

What are the most effective ways to prevent cavities (tooth decay)?

Cavity prevention involves consistent home care and regular professional visits. Brush for two minutes twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, minimize sugary snacks and drinks, and attend regular dental exams and cleanings. Dr. Meriano might suggest dental sealants or in-office fluoride applications for extra protection, especially in children.

Dental Studio Pediatrics
1720 Howard Ave #358 Windsor Health Centre
Windsor, ON, N8X 5A6

Phone: (519) 977-0325

Dr. Alexandria Irene Meriano is a licensed Pediatric 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: 14140

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=14140

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