Dr. Bryan R. Stein

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

Gag Reflex Management

• Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Seeking strategies, desensitization techniques, or appropriate sedation options to manage a strong gag reflex during necessary dental care.

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): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.

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): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Children with significant systemic health conditions (e.g., organ transplants, cancer, uncontrolled diabetes) who require careful dental management and coordination with their medical specialists to prevent oral complications and ensure dental treatments are performed safely.
• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Seeking a pediatric dental specialist or a general dentist with significant experience and resources in providing safe, effective, and compassionate dental care for children with unique and complex needs, potentially including the use of advanced behavior guidance techniques or sedation/anesthesia.

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

• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.
• 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.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Standard tooth removal procedures for non-impacted teeth that do not require complex surgical intervention.
• Professional Teeth Whitening (In-Office & Take-Home Kits): Customized teeth whitening options, including accelerated in-clinic procedures and personalized at-home kits, to effectively lighten the shade of your natural teeth.
• Fluoride Treatments: Strengthening tooth surfaces with fluoride to make them more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria.

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

At Pathways Dental Care, 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. Stein frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Through Dr. Stein's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from an old dental crown that needed to be replaced because it was visibly worn, chipped, poorly fitting, or had decay underneath often find they can readily achieve finding a dental team that understands and effectively manages their dental nervousness and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort.
• Many people seek Dr. Stein's professional help and expertise when dealing with a canker sore (aphthous ulcer) that was unusually large, very painful, or taking a long time to heal. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently achieving the beautiful, confident smile they had always desired through cosmetic dentistry, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to their child participating happily in school photos and social activities.
• Patients experiencing their child having a pronounced fear of needles or injections at the dental office, requiring a very patient approach often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Stein's practice, a key objective is receiving clear dental clearance before a major medical procedure, ensuring their overall health is prioritized, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in their child focusing better at school, free from the distraction of dental issues.
• Dr. Stein understands that dealing with an urgent need to replace a recently lost front tooth before other teeth started to shift or their appearance was significantly affected can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving gaining clarity about their child's future orthodontic needs and the optimal timing for any potential treatment, helping patients comfortably get back to knowing their teeth are well-protected from decay and damage and feeling their best.

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

Pathways Dental Care, where Dr. Stein practices, is situated in a central location within the Ancaster neighborhood of Ancaster. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

What is the process for becoming a new patient at Pathways Dental Care with Dr. Stein?

We welcome new patients to Pathways Dental Care! To become a new patient with Dr. Stein, please call our office at (905) 304-4505 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. Stein typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Stein 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). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. Stein may offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options based on additional training.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Stein at Pathways Dental Care?

Your first visit with Dr. Stein 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. Stein 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.

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

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

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

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 or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

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

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

Generally, every 6 months for most patients for preventative care. Dr. Stein will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months). Follow Dr. Stein's specific recommendation.

Pathways Dental Care
1281 Mohawk Rd
Ancaster, ON, L9G 3K9

Phone: (905) 304-4505

Dr. Bryan R. Stein 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: 12711

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=12711

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