Dr. Arathi Shital Hungund – Dentist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Arathi Shital Hungund is a Dentist. Practicing at Latoria Dental Centre in Victoria, BC, Dr. Hungund is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Hungund is licensed by The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in BC. Dr. Hungund 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. Hungund 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 Latoria Dental Centre.

Dr. Arathi Shital Hungund earned a Dental Degree. With over 6 years of practice since 2019, Dr. Hungund has gained valuable clinical experience. Dr. Hungund is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most current and effective treatments available, reflecting Dr. Hungund's ongoing professional development and dedication to excellence in patient care.

Key aspects of Dr. Hungund's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Hungund is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Hindi.

Dr. Arathi Shital Hungund 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

• 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.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.

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

• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• 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.
• Fluoride Treatments: Application of topical fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel, prevent demineralization, and reduce the risk of cavities, especially for children and at-risk adults.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Personalized protective oral appliances, including athletic guards for impact protection and night guards to alleviate TMJ stress and prevent tooth wear.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Replacing one or more missing teeth with a fixed (non-removable) dental bridge, typically anchored to adjacent natural teeth (abutments) or dental implants, to restore chewing function, maintain tooth alignment, and improve smile aesthetics.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Hungund. 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. Arathi Shital Hungund adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

At Latoria Dental Centre, 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. Hungund frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When a piece of an old, large amalgam (silver) filling breaking off, leaving a tooth vulnerable starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to maintaining a professional appearance that boosts their career prospects, Dr. Hungund and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their new partial or full denture feeling exceptionally stable, comfortable, and looking completely natural and a return to comfort and confidence.
• Patients presenting with a tooth that suddenly felt rough, had a sharp or jagged edge, or was causing irritation can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their lost tooth being promptly replaced, preventing undesirable shifting of adjacent teeth and maintaining smile aesthetics under Dr. Hungund's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume confidently recommending their dentist, {preferred_name}, to friends and family based on their positive experiences without the former limitations or discomfort.
• Managing their existing dentures not fitting as comfortably or securely as they used to effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Hungund and the dental team. The clear aim is always the bump or swelling on their gums being diagnosed and appropriately treated, resolving their worry, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying confidently using their new smile in professional networking or client interactions and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• Are you struggling with a specific need to find a dental clinic that is particularly good and patient with nervous or phobic patients? Dr. Hungund partners with patients to target a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as maintaining fresh breath, which improves their social and professional interactions a much more achievable reality.

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

Latoria Dental Centre, where Dr. Hungund practices, is situated in a well-regarded dental office in a Victoria neighborhood of Victoria. The clinic is conveniently located near Royal BC Museum and is accessible via Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

In British Columbia, provincial health plans such as the Medical Services Plan (MSP) generally do <strong>not</strong> cover routine or major dental procedures provided in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed within a hospital setting <em>may</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance (often provided by employers), or via government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., low-income families with children, seniors on specific benefits, or social assistance recipients). It is crucial to check your eligibility for any public coverage and to review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-pays, deductibles, annual maximums) before treatment at Latoria Dental Centre.

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

For most adults, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Hungund will create a personalized schedule based on your (or your child's) individual needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing oral health conditions. Some patients might require more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months for those with active gum disease or high caries risk), while others may have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Hungund's specific recommendations.

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

Modern digital dental X-rays utilize minimal radiation and are considered very safe, especially when protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are only taken when clinically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Hungund will determine the appropriate frequency based on your oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

No, a referral is typically not needed to see a general dentist like Dr. Hungund for check-ups, cleanings, or consultations. You can usually schedule an appointment directly with Latoria Dental Centre.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Hungund at Latoria Dental Centre?

Your first visit will involve completing a medical history form, discussing your dental concerns and goals with Dr. Hungund, and undergoing a thorough oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Hungund will then explain their findings and recommend any necessary treatments. This is an excellent opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

What cosmetic dentistry options might Dr. Hungund offer to improve the appearance of my smile?

Dr. Hungund focuses on comprehensive general dentistry for overall oral health. While many restorative procedures also have excellent aesthetic outcomes, if you have specific advanced cosmetic concerns, they can discuss basic aesthetic improvements available or provide a referral to a dentist specializing in cosmetic procedures or a prosthodontist if more advanced treatment is desired.

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

A general dentist like Dr. Hungund provides primary dental care for all ages. Services typically include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and possibly some cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). Dr. Hungund also provides oral hygiene education and refers patients to specialists when necessary.

Latoria Dental Centre
111-611 Brookside Rd
Victoria, BC, V9C 0C3

Phone: (778) 265-5070

Dr. Arathi Shital Hungund is a licensed Dentist in BC, regulated by The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP) under the Health Professions Act (British Columbia).

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

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