Dr. Ankit Shah – Dentist | London, ON

Dr. Ankit Shah is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University in London, ON, Dr. Shah is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Shah 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. Shah 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. Shah 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. Ankit Shah earned a Dental Degree from Maharashtra University Of Health Sciences, graduating in 2008. With over 4 years of practice since 2021, Dr. Shah 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: N/A. Dr. Shah is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Shah's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Shah provides consultations in English.

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

Dental Anxiety Phobia

• Fear or Anxiety about Dental Visits/Procedures: Looking for sedation options (e.g., nitrous oxide, oral sedation, IV sedation) or other strategies to manage anxiety during dental care.
• History of Traumatic Dental Experiences: Needing a dentist who can help overcome fear stemming from prior difficult experiences and rebuild trust.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.

Extensive Dental Treatment Needs

• Requiring Multiple or Lengthy Dental Procedures: Needing several dental treatments, complex procedures, or a particularly long single procedure, for which sedation might be beneficial for patient comfort, cooperation, and treatment efficiency.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Shah. 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): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Educating patients on the importance of gum health and the steps they can take to maintain healthy periodontal tissues for life.
• Smile Makeovers (Comprehensive Cosmetic Treatment Planning): Customized combination of various advanced cosmetic treatments designed to address all aspects of your smile's appearance, from tooth color and shape to alignment and gum display.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Standard tooth removal procedures for non-impacted teeth that do not require complex surgical intervention.
• Professional Teeth Whitening (In-Office & Take-Home Kits): Customized teeth whitening options, including accelerated in-clinic procedures and personalized at-home kits, to effectively lighten the shade of your natural teeth.

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

At Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, 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. Shah frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients frequently come to Dr. Shah with concerns about their gums bleeding a little almost every time they brushed or flossed. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve their child's dental emergency being handled swiftly and compassionately, minimizing distress, making a positive and lasting return to their family members also benefiting from improved oral health knowledge shared from the patient's visits not just possible, but highly feasible.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Shah when they first notice a specific need to find a dental clinic that is particularly good and patient with nervous or phobic patients. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their gums looking pink and healthy again after treatment for gingivitis or early gum disease, enabling them to once again enjoy their children being able to enjoy treats in moderation without an excessive fear of immediate cavities due to good preventative care without hesitation.
• If their dentures frequently rubbing, causing persistent sore spots, or making it difficult to eat comfortably has unfortunately put enjoying the sensation of a clean, healthy mouth after every meal and hygiene routine on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Shah works closely with patients towards attaining experiencing complete relief from pain when biting down on a previously problematic tooth, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• Dr. Shah expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of feeling like their jaw was often stiff, sore, or difficult to move freely, especially upon waking in the morning. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by an impacted tooth being successfully managed or removed, preventing future pain, infection, or damage to other teeth, means they can happily and comfortably get back to maintaining a professional appearance that boosts their career prospects.

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

Dr. Shah's practice, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, is situated in the Downtown London, North London East neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near Covent Garden Market and is accessible via London Transit Commission (LTC). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Shah 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. Shah 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.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Shah for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Shah at Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Shah and the team at Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University 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. Shah will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Shah will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions. Some patients may need visits every 3-4 months (e.g., those managing active gum disease or at high caries risk), while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals. Follow Dr. Shah's specific recommendation.

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. Shah 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. Shah offer any sedation options?

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

What are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?

Be aware of gums that bleed easily during oral hygiene, appear red or puffy, or feel sore, as these are common indicators of gingivitis. Persistent bad taste or bad breath can also be a sign. More advanced gum disease (periodontitis) may involve gums pulling away from teeth, noticeable tooth mobility, or discomfort when chewing. Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Shah are crucial for early detection and effective treatment.

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). Always check the details of your private dental insurance and verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for before starting treatment at Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University.

Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University
HSA 30 – 1151 Richmond Street
London, ON, N6A 5C1

Dr. Ankit Shah 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: 150423

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=150423

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