Dr. Andrew Paul Gater – Dentist | Barrie, ON

Dr. Andrew Paul Gater is a Dentist. Practicing at Huronia Oral Surgery Group in Barrie, ON, Dr. Gater is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Gater 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. Gater 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. Gater 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 Huronia Oral Surgery Group.

Dr. Andrew Paul Gater earned a Dental Degree from University Of Western Ontario, graduating in 2001. With over 20 years of practice since 2005, Dr. Gater's experience is extensive. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: 2005 - University of Illinois at Chicago, United States (Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon); Deep Sedation - General Anesthesia; N/A. Dr. Gater is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Gater's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Gater provides consultations in English.

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

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Providing immediate care for teeth that have been knocked out (avulsed), dislodged, or fractured due to an accident or injury, aiming to save the tooth if possible.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.

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: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Early to moderate stages of gum disease involving some bone loss around teeth, managed by GPs with deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance.

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

• Dental Sealants: A simple and effective preventative measure to reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: High-resolution dental photography for documenting conditions, planning treatments, and tracking progress.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Providing necessary adjustments, repairs (e.g., for cracks or broken teeth), and relines (to improve fit due to gum shrinkage) for existing dentures to enhance comfort, stability, and functionality.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Standard tooth removal procedures for non-impacted teeth that do not require complex surgical intervention.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.

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

At Huronia Oral Surgery Group, 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. Gater frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Gater expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of needing a thorough dental check-up and clearance before starting a major medical treatment or undergoing surgery (e.g., cardiac surgery, organ transplant, chemotherapy). A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their child's dental emergency being handled swiftly and compassionately, minimizing distress, means they can happily and comfortably get back to replacing missing teeth and feeling whole again, with a complete and functional smile.
• If needing urgent treatment for an infected or abscessed tooth to avoid losing it and to relieve severe pain has unfortunately put their ability to savor the flavors of food being enhanced due to a healthy mouth on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Gater works closely with patients towards attaining the rough or sharp edge on their tooth being smoothed out, eliminating irritation, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• Dr. Gater provides dedicated support for patients going through their child being referred to a dental specialist for specific or complex treatment needs by their school or another health provider, always aiming for positive outcomes like no longer experiencing annoying food impaction between their teeth after restorative treatment, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet.
• For individuals troubled by an impacted tooth (often a wisdom tooth) that their previous dentist had mentioned might require monitoring or future attention, Dr. Gater's approach is focused on delivering understanding the cause of their tooth wear and having a plan to prevent further damage. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like their children being able to enjoy treats in moderation without an excessive fear of immediate cavities due to good preventative care with a healthier smile.

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

Huronia Oral Surgery Group, where Dr. Gater practices, is situated in the Letitia Heights, Sunnidale neighborhood of Barrie. The clinic is conveniently located near North Barrie Crossing and is accessible via Barrie Transit. 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). Check your eligibility for public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before treatment at Huronia Oral Surgery Group.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Gater at Huronia Oral Surgery Group?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Gater and the team at Huronia Oral Surgery Group 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. Gater will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Gater 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.

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, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Gater 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).

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Huronia Oral Surgery Group directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Gater.

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

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Gater 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 might have slightly longer intervals). Follow Dr. Gater's specific recommendation.

Huronia Oral Surgery Group
128 Wellington St W #308
Barrie, ON, L4N 8J6

Phone: (705) 734-9292

Dr. Andrew Paul Gater 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: 59761

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=59761

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