Dr. Atul Joshi – Dentist | Ottawa, ON

Dr. Atul Joshi is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at St. Laurent Dental Centre in Ottawa, ON, Dr. Joshi is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Joshi 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. Joshi 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. Joshi 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. Joshi 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 St. Laurent Dental Centre.

Dr. Atul Joshi earned a Dental Degree from McGill University, graduating in 1993. With over 32 years of practice since 1993, Dr. Joshi 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: Minimal Oral; N/A. Dr. Joshi is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Joshi's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Joshi provides consultations in English.

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

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.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.

Gag Reflex Management

• Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Experiencing a hyperactive or severe gag reflex that significantly interferes with routine dental examinations, X-rays, impressions, or treatments.

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. Joshi. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): More involved tooth extractions that are beyond simple forceps removal, potentially including careful elevation of soft tissues for better visibility and access (for less complex surgical cases appropriate for a GP setting).
• 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.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Fixed prosthetic solutions designed to effectively fill the gap left by missing teeth, thereby improving chewing ability, speech, and overall smile appearance.
• 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.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.

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

At St. Laurent 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. Joshi frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing needing practical advice and guidance on how to properly care for their toddler's newly erupted first teeth, involves working systematically towards their extensive dental work being completed efficiently and comfortably, often with the help of sedation. Dr. Joshi expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet.
• At Dr. Joshi's clinic, addressing a tooth that suddenly became extremely and uncharacteristically sensitive to cold water or air, causing sharp pain means focusing on patient goals. Achieving a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to being able to focus on their passions and pursuits without the constant background noise of dental issues.
• Many people seek Dr. Joshi's professional help and expertise when dealing with looking for a new family dentist who could provide comprehensive care for all members of their family, from children to adults. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently their partner reporting less snoring or cessation of breathing pauses during sleep after starting treatment with a dental sleep apnea appliance (facilitated by their dentist), allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to sleeping peacefully without the interruption of dental pain or discomfort from oral appliances.
• Dr. Joshi provides dedicated support for patients going through wondering if their child's teeth were erupting in the correct sequence and alignment for their age, always aiming for positive outcomes like feeling a renewed sense of confidence in their smile and overall appearance, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as enjoying the sensation of a clean, healthy mouth after every meal and hygiene routine.

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

Dr. Joshi's practice, St. Laurent Dental Centre, is situated in the Overbrook, Castle Heights, Vanier South neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near the ByWard Market Area and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Joshi 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).

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Joshi at St. Laurent Dental Centre?

Your first visit with Dr. Joshi will typically involve a comprehensive dental examination. This includes 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. Joshi will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if any care is needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

What is the process for becoming a new patient at St. Laurent Dental Centre with Dr. Joshi?

We welcome new patients to St. Laurent Dental Centre! To become a new patient with Dr. Joshi, please call our office at (613) 744-6611 or visit our website at if online booking is available. Our team will gather some basic information and schedule your first appointment, which is typically a comprehensive examination and consultation. Please be prepared to provide your medical history and any dental insurance information you may have. We look forward to meeting you!

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Joshi 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. Joshi also educates patients on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. Joshi 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. Joshi?

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact St. Laurent Dental Centre directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Joshi.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

In ON, 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). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and check your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at St. Laurent Dental Centre.

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

Generally, every 6 months is recommended for most patients for preventative care. Dr. Joshi 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). Follow Dr. Joshi's specific recommendation.

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

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

St. Laurent Dental Centre
1200 St. Laurent Blvd Box 203
Ottawa, ON, K1K 3B8

Phone: (613) 744-6611

Dr. Atul Joshi 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: 12492

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=12492

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