About
Dr. Brian King Hou Ho is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at Village Dental Centre in Lakefield, ON, Dr. Ho is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Ho 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. Ho 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. Ho 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. Utilizing advanced dental imaging technologies, such as Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), allows for superior diagnostic capabilities and precise treatment planning for complex cases including dental implants, orthodontics, endodontics, impacted teeth, or assessment of oral pathology. Dr. Ho 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 Village Dental Centre.
Dr. Brian King Hou Ho earned a Dental Degree from University Of Western Ontario, graduating in 2009. With over 15 years of practice since 2010, Dr. Ho 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 and General Dentistry Utilizing Advanced Dental Imaging (CBCT/CT Scans). Dr. Ho 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.
Key aspects of Dr. Ho'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; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Ho provides consultations in English.
Dr. Brian King Hou Ho provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:
Orthodontic Assessment Needs
- Bite Problems (Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite, Open Bite, Deep Bite): Seeking comprehensive assessment and correction of various types of malocclusion (improper bite) by an orthodontic specialist or appropriately trained general dentist.
- Concerns about Crooked, Crowded, Gapped, or Protruding Teeth: Dissatisfaction with the alignment, spacing, or protrusion of teeth, seeking professional orthodontic evaluation to understand treatment options.
Dental Implant Planning
- Comprehensive Assessment of Jawbone for Dental Implant Suitability: Detailed pre-operative assessment and diagnostic workup specifically for dental implant surgery, including evaluation of adjacent anatomical structures.
Preventative Oral Health Topics
- Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.
- Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
- Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.
This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Ho. 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): Professional hygiene treatments to keep your oral health in optimal condition and prevent future dental problems.
- 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.
- Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Standard tooth removal procedures for non-impacted teeth that do not require complex surgical intervention.
- 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.
- Nitrous Oxide Sedation ('Laughing Gas'): Administering a controlled mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen through a comfortable nasal mask for mild anxiolysis (anxiety reduction) and relaxation during dental procedures; suitable for both adults and children with mild to moderate dental apprehension.
Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Ho. 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. Brian King Hou Ho adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in ON and standards of The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO).
At Village 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. Ho frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:
- Dr. Ho understands that dealing with their child's prolonged thumb-sucking habit and concerns about its impact on their teeth and jaw development can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving their jaw no longer clicking or popping painfully, and jaw movement feeling smoother, helping patients comfortably get back to kissing their loved ones with confidence and without oral discomfort and feeling their best.
- With Dr. Ho's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing experiencing a dull, persistent ache in their jaw joint area that sometimes radiated towards their ear or temple is focused on achieving their extensive dental work being completed efficiently and comfortably, often with the help of sedation. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to singing their favorite songs with gusto, whether in a choir or just for fun without dental concerns.
- Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Ho when they first notice feeling like food consistently and annoyingly got stuck between certain teeth after meals. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment, enabling them to once again enjoy travelling and trying new cuisines without fear of unexpected dental emergencies without hesitation.
- For those affected by concerns about potential hereditary dental problems or conditions present in their family history, Dr. Ho provides solutions that lead to their recurrent canker sores becoming less frequent or less severe with management strategies. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to confidently going on dates or meeting new people without dental insecurities.
Your personalized dental treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Ho, will be carefully designed to help you reach your specific functional, aesthetic, and overall oral wellness objectives. Dr. Ho is committed to empowering patients with the information and high-quality care needed to achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile for life.
Village Dental Centre, where Dr. Ho practices, is situated in a central location within the Lakefield neighborhood of Lakefield. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.
- How often should I (or my child) visit Dr. Ho for a check-up and cleaning?
- For most adults and children, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Ho 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, those managing active gum disease or at high risk for cavities might need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months), while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between appointments. It is crucial to follow Dr. Ho's specific recommendations for your optimal oral health.
- What services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Ho typically provide?
- A General Dentist like Dr. Ho is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages. They offer a wide range of services, including 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 may offer cosmetic procedures such as whitening or bonding. General Dentists also educate patients on proper oral hygiene and refer to specialists when more complex care is needed. Dr. Ho may offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options based on additional training and experience.
- What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Ho at Village Dental Centre?
- Your first visit with Dr. Ho 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. Ho will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if 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. Ho?
- No, a referral is typically not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Village Dental Centre directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Ho.
- 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 only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Ho 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).
- 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. 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 provided by employers). Government assistance programs may cover dental care for eligible groups, such as children from low-income families or seniors on specific benefits. It's essential to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment at Village Dental Centre.
Village Dental Centre
57 Queen St box 10
Lakefield, ON, K0L 2H0
Phone: (705) 652-6604
Dr. Brian King Hou Ho 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: 80442
Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=80442
Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining overall health. Dr. Ho 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.