Dr. Carl Descôteaux – Dentist | Shawinigan, QC

Dr. Carl Descôteaux is a Dentiste. Practicing at CLINIQUE DENTAIRE DESCOTEAUX BRONSARD BARCLAY in Shawinigan, QC, Dr Descôteaux is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr Descôteaux is licensed by The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in QC. Dr Descôteaux 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 Descôteaux 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 CLINIQUE DENTAIRE DESCOTEAUX BRONSARD BARCLAY.

Dr. Carl Descôteaux earned a Dental Degree. Dr Descôteaux brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr Descôteaux is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr Descôteaux remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available. This dedication to professional development reflects Dr Descôteaux's commitment to providing the highest quality of care.

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

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

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• 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.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.

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

• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Personalized protective oral appliances, including athletic guards for impact protection and night guards to alleviate TMJ stress and prevent tooth wear.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Vigilant screening for oral cancer, a critical component of maintaining your overall health.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Custom-crafted bridges providing a stable, functional, and natural-looking replacement for lost teeth, preventing shifting of remaining teeth.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr Descôteaux. 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. Carl Descôteaux adhere to scope of practice for Dentistes in QC and standards of The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ).

At CLINIQUE DENTAIRE DESCOTEAUX BRONSARD BARCLAY, 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 Descôteaux frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients experiencing simply needing a routine, comprehensive dental check-up and a thorough professional cleaning often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr Descôteaux's practice, a key objective is achieving their dream smile through a well-planned and executed smile makeover, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in their gums feeling healthy and looking good, contributing to overall oral wellness.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing their child having a severe toothache that kept them up at night and required immediate attention, involves working systematically towards the dark spot on their tooth being treated, preventing a larger cavity from forming. Dr Descôteaux expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including feeling comfortable with close-up interactions and conversations.
• If their child having a pronounced fear of needles or injections at the dental office, requiring a very patient approach is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr Descôteaux develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their previously sensitive exposed tooth roots being protected and desensitized. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy confidently eating sticky or chewy foods without fear of dislodging restorations or dentures.
• Are you struggling with experiencing sharp or lingering pain when they bit down or chewed on a specific tooth? Dr Descôteaux partners with patients to target their persistent bad breath being eliminated after addressing the underlying dental cause, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as maintaining fresh breath, which improves their social and professional interactions a much more achievable reality.

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

CLINIQUE DENTAIRE DESCOTEAUX BRONSARD BARCLAY is situated in a central location within the Shawinigan neighborhood of Shawinigan. 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.

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, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr Descôteaux 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 Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

In QC, provincial health plans like the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) 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). It is important to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment at CLINIQUE DENTAIRE DESCOTEAUX BRONSARD BARCLAY.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact CLINIQUE DENTAIRE DESCOTEAUX BRONSARD BARCLAY directly to arrange their visit with Dr Descôteaux.

What services does a General Dentist (Dentiste) like Dr Descôteaux typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr Descôteaux 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). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

Does CLINIQUE DENTAIRE DESCOTEAUX BRONSARD BARCLAY offer direct billing to dental insurance companies (assignment of benefits)?

While we do not offer direct billing to insurance companies at this time (meaning payment in full is due at the time of service), we will provide you with all the necessary standardized dental claim forms and detailed official receipts. You can then easily submit these to your dental insurance provider for prompt reimbursement according to your policy terms and coverage. Our administrative team is happy to assist you with understanding the forms if needed.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr Descôteaux at CLINIQUE DENTAIRE DESCOTEAUX BRONSARD BARCLAY?

Your first visit with Dr Descôteaux 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 Descôteaux 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.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr Descôteaux will recommend a personalized schedule based on your 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. It's essential to follow Dr Descôteaux's specific recommendation.

CLINIQUE DENTAIRE DESCOTEAUX BRONSARD BARCLAY
796 7e Ave
Shawinigan, QC, G9T 2B6

Phone: (819) 533-3368

Dr. Carl Descôteaux is a licensed Dentiste in QC, regulated by The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ) under the Code des professions & Loi sur les dentistes (Québec).

License Number: 94773

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ).

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