Dr. Austin Hodge Chen – Dentist | Vaughan, ON

Dr. Austin Hodge Chen is a Orthodontist. Practicing at Vaughan Orthodontics in Vaughan, ON, Dr. Chen is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Chen 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. As a certified specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Chen focuses exclusively on the diagnosis, prevention, interception, and comprehensive treatment of malocclusions (improper bites), misaligned teeth, and jaw irregularities using a full range of orthodontic appliances including braces, clear aligners, and retainers for children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Chen 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 Vaughan Orthodontics.

Dr. Austin Hodge Chen earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 2002. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Orthodontist at the University of Toronto in 2007. With over 18 years of practice since 2007, Dr. Chen's commitment to ongoing continuing education ensures patients receive up-to-date dental care. This dedication to professional development allows Dr. Chen to remain at the forefront of orthodontic advancements, consistently providing patients with the most effective and comfortable treatment options available.

Key aspects of Dr. Chen's dental practice philosophy include a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; and tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Chen provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Austin Hodge Chen addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Overbite Underbite Crossbite

• Specific Bite Problems: Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite, Open Bite: Seeking orthodontic correction for these specific bite discrepancies that can affect chewing, speech, tooth wear, and facial aesthetics.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Complex dental cases that significantly benefit from the superior diagnostic information and precise measurements provided by CBCT scans for optimal treatment outcomes.

Jaw Alignment Growth Concerns

• Jaw Growth Discrepancies & Skeletal Imbalances in Growing Patients: Concerns about the proportional growth and development of the upper and lower jaws in children or adolescents, potentially requiring interceptive orthodontic treatment (Phase I) with functional appliances or headgear to guide jaw growth, or future orthognathic (jaw) surgery in conjunction with orthodontics for severe skeletal imbalances.

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

• Comprehensive Orthodontic Diagnosis & Treatment Planning: Developing individualized orthodontic treatment plans to correct malocclusions and achieve optimal dental and facial aesthetics.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Guidance on the best tools and methods for cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly to prevent dental problems.
• Traditional Metal & Ceramic Braces: Classic and aesthetic brace options for comprehensive orthodontic correction in children, teens, and adults.
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging: Utilizing Cone Beam CT technology for comprehensive three-dimensional views of your oral and maxillofacial structures when indicated.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Chen is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Vaughan Orthodontics, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• If wanting to understand what was causing their teeth to appear worn down, shorter, or a bit translucent is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Chen develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their gums no longer bleeding during brushing, indicating healthier gum tissue. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy their child being able_to focus on learning and playing without the interruption of dental pain.
• A key objective when treating their child being overdue for their regular dental visit and preventative care at Dr. Chen's welcoming dental clinic is achieving their child with special healthcare needs successfully and calmly completing necessary dental treatment in a supportive environment. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like enjoying a cold ice cream or a hot cup of coffee without wincing from tooth sensitivity.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Chen with concerns about needing a substantial amount of dental work done and feeling quite overwhelmed by the prospect. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve experiencing a significant reduction in jaw pain and morning headaches after treatment for teeth grinding (bruxism), making a positive and lasting return to attending social events and family dinners without worrying about denture stability or food getting trapped not just possible, but highly feasible.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease, involves working systematically towards a single discolored tooth being aesthetically restored to match the rest of their smile. Dr. Chen expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including getting a full night's sleep without being woken up by a throbbing toothache or jaw pain.

Your specialized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Chen, will be meticulously designed to address your unique concerns and help you reach your specific objectives within their area of expertise. Dr. Chen is committed to providing the highest standard of specialized care, tailored to your individual needs.

Vaughan Orthodontics, where Dr. Chen practices, is situated in the Concord Central, Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (VMC) Area neighborhood of Vaughan. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near Highway 407 Access and is easily accessible via York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Chen at Vaughan Orthodontics?

Your first visit with Dr. Chen 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. Chen 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.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Vaughan Orthodontics directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Chen.

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 exposure. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Chen 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).

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Chen will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, some patients 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. It is important to follow Dr. Chen's specific recommendation.

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). Patients should verify any potential public coverage they might be eligible for and always check the details of their private dental insurance before starting treatment.

Vaughan Orthodontics
1611 Rutherford Rd #5
Vaughan, ON, L4K 0C6

Phone: (905) 303-7788

Dr. Austin Hodge Chen is a licensed Orthodontist 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: 62051

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=62051

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