Dr. Andrew Joseph Puksa

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

Oral Pathology Detection

• Suspicious Lesions, Sores, Lumps, or Patches in the Mouth or on Lips: Seeking timely assessment by a dentist for any unexplained or persistent lesions within the oral soft tissues or on the lips to ensure early detection of any serious conditions.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Dental situations where standard 2D X-rays (bitewings, panoramic) are insufficient and a 3D Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan is required for accurate diagnosis, assessment of anatomical complexities, or detailed planning of complex treatments like implants, orthodontics, or endodontics.

Dental Anxiety Phobia

• Fear or Anxiety about Dental Visits/Procedures: Seeking a dental environment and care approach that is understanding, patient, and supportive of dental fears.
• History of Traumatic Dental Experiences: Seeking a compassionate, gentle, and communicative approach to dental care due to previous trauma.

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

• Oral Conscious Sedation (Anxiolysis): Utilizing carefully selected oral medications to help patients achieve a comfortable, calm, and stress-free dental experience, facilitating necessary treatment for apprehensive individuals.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Treatment involving the removal of infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, thorough cleaning and shaping of the root canal system, and sealing it to prevent reinfection, often for less complex endodontic cases.
• Porcelain Veneers & Lumineers: Transforming smiles with highly durable and exceptionally aesthetic porcelain veneers for a beautiful, flawless, and natural-looking result.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• 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.

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

At Thunder Bay Dental Center, 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. Puksa frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• 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 knocked-out tooth being successfully reimplanted and saved thanks to prompt emergency care under Dr. Puksa's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume enjoying a corn on the cob or biting into a crisp apple without hesitation without the former limitations or discomfort.
• At Dr. Puksa's clinic, addressing their current partial or full denture feeling very unstable, loose, or ill-fitting, making it difficult to eat or speak with confidence means focusing on patient goals. Achieving their smile looking its absolute best for an important upcoming wedding, graduation, or other special event helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to feeling the smooth, clean surfaces of their teeth after a professional cleaning and polishing.
• Are you struggling with experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease? Dr. Puksa partners with patients to target their previously loose tooth feeling stable and secure after treatment, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as travelling and trying new cuisines without fear of unexpected dental emergencies a much more achievable reality.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Puksa with concerns about their partner mentioning that they snored very loudly or seemed to stop breathing momentarily during sleep (a possible sign of sleep apnea requiring a dental appliance referral). By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve their slightly crooked front teeth being straightened effectively with a conservative cosmetic option, making a positive and lasting return to their child understanding the importance of regular dental check-ups for a lifetime of health not just possible, but highly feasible.

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

Thunder Bay Dental Center, where Dr. Puksa practices, is situated in the Port Arthur Central (Downtown North Core, Waterfront area) neighborhood of Thunder Bay. The clinic is conveniently located near Thunder Bay Community Auditorium and is accessible via Thunder Bay Transit. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

For most adults and children, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Puksa will personalize your schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, patients managing active gum disease or at high risk for cavities might need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months), while others with excellent long-term oral health may have slightly longer intervals between appointments. It is essential to follow Dr. Puksa's specific recommendations for your optimal oral health.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Puksa at Thunder Bay Dental Center?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Puksa and the team at Thunder Bay Dental Center 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. Puksa will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Thunder Bay Dental Center directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Puksa.

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 to further minimize any potential exposure. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Puksa 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).

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

Yes, Dr. Puksa understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, Thunder Bay Dental Center offers various sedation options, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious sedation. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Puksa during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Puksa 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). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. Puksa may also offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options based on additional training.

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 specific, limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, 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). Always check your private dental insurance details and verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for before treatment.

Thunder Bay Dental Center
1064 Oliver Rd #100
Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 7A4

Phone: (807) 345-7575

Dr. Andrew Joseph Puksa 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: 76999

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=76999

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