Dr. Balaji Swaminath

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

Gum Disease Initial

• 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.
• 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.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Persistent unpleasant breath odor often linked to oral hygiene issues, gum disease, dry mouth, or other dental conditions.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Tooth decay in infants and young children, often affecting the upper front teeth, requiring early intervention and preventative strategies.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.

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

• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Durable and precisely fitting partial crowns designed to preserve more natural tooth structure while effectively repairing significant decay or fractures on the chewing surfaces.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Addressing common issues with loose, uncomfortable, or damaged dentures to restore proper fit and patient satisfaction.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.
• Fluoride Treatments: Strengthening tooth surfaces with fluoride to make them more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria.
• Dental Crowns (Caps): Durable and aesthetic crowns designed to restore the form, function, and integrity of significantly damaged or endodontically treated teeth.

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

At Martindale Dental Clinic, 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. Swaminath frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Overcoming or effectively managing needing a thorough dental check-up and clearance before starting a major medical treatment or undergoing surgery (e.g., cardiac surgery, organ transplant, chemotherapy) is a common journey for patients under Dr. Swaminath's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling achieving their desired level of teeth whiteness safely and effectively under professional supervision, so that daily routines and pleasures like feeling that their investment in cosmetic or restorative dentistry was truly worthwhile for their self-esteem become straightforward again.
• For those affected by an old dental filling falling out or a crown feeling loose, unstable, or detaching, Dr. Swaminath provides solutions that lead to a tooth that had become painfully sensitive to sweet foods now feeling completely normal and comfortable. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to feeling refreshed and confident with consistently fresh breath throughout the day.
• Dr. Swaminath understands that dealing with needing a substantial amount of dental work done and feeling quite overwhelmed by the prospect can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving clarity on their child's dental eruption sequence and any potential developmental concerns, helping patients comfortably get back to concentrating fully on their work or studies without the distraction of dental discomfort and feeling their best.
• Are you struggling with a dental issue, such as misaligned or discolored teeth, that was significantly affecting their confidence to smile openly and interact socially? Dr. Swaminath partners with patients to target their child's toothache being resolved, and the tooth saved with appropriate treatment, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as maintaining a professional appearance that boosts their career prospects a much more achievable reality.

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

Martindale Dental Clinic, where Dr. Swaminath practices, is situated in the Port Dalhousie neighborhood of St. Catharines. The clinic is conveniently located near Meridian Centre (Arena) and is accessible via Niagara Region Transit (NRT). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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. Swaminath 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. Swaminath at Martindale Dental Clinic?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Swaminath and the team at Martindale Dental Clinic 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. Swaminath will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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 check their private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Swaminath will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months), while others might have slightly longer intervals. Following Dr. Swaminath's specific recommendation is crucial.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Martindale Dental Clinic directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Swaminath.

Martindale Dental Clinic
100 Martindale Rd #1
St. Catharines, ON, L2S 2Y3

Phone: (905) 988-9004

Dr. Balaji Swaminath 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: 55484

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=55484

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