Dr. Catherine Andrea Zacal – Dentist | Orillia, ON

Dr. Catherine Andrea Zacal is a Dentist. Practicing at Dentistry on West in Orillia, ON, Dr. Zacal is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Zacal 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. Zacal 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. Zacal 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 Dentistry on West.

Dr. Catherine Andrea Zacal earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 2001. With over 24 years of practice since 2001, Dr. Zacal has cultivated extensive clinical experience. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: N/A. Dr. Zacal is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Zacal's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Zacal provides consultations in English.

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

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• 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: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Zacal. 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.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Metal-free white fillings to restore tooth structure, function, and maintain a natural, healthy-looking smile.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Proactive examinations as part of your check-up to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Designing, fabricating, and fitting comfortable, functional, and natural-looking complete dentures (for patients missing all teeth in an arch) or partial dentures (for patients missing some teeth) to restore chewing ability, speech, and smile aesthetics. Options may include implant-supported dentures for enhanced stability.

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

At Dentistry on West, 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. Zacal frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Zacal to see patients who were troubled by a desire to explore more permanent or stable options for replacing all of their missing teeth effectively successfully achieve their jaw no longer clicking or popping painfully, and jaw movement feeling smoother. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like feeling relief from chronic headaches that were linked to their TMJ or bruxism.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Zacal with concerns about needing a completely new set of dentures because their old ones were very worn out, ill-fitting, and no longer functional. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve the sore spot or ulcer in their mouth healing completely after diagnosis and treatment, making a positive and lasting return to experiencing the simple joy of a pain-free mouth every day not just possible, but highly feasible.
• Dr. Zacal provides dedicated support for patients going through feeling like food consistently and annoyingly got stuck between certain teeth after meals, always aiming for positive outcomes like a suspicious white or red patch in their mouth being diagnosed early, leading to effective management, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as their child showing pride in their healthy smile and good brushing habits.
• For those affected by a tooth that felt 'high' or uncomfortable after a recent dental filling, affecting their bite, Dr. Zacal provides solutions that lead to their dentures fitting much more comfortably and securely, improving their ability to eat and speak. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to biting into sandwiches or other challenging foods with complete confidence.

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

Dentistry on West, Dr. Zacal's practice, is situated in a central location within the Orillia neighborhood of Orillia. 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.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Zacal at Dentistry on West?

Your first visit with Dr. Zacal 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. Zacal 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.

What services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Zacal typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Zacal 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). Dr. Zacal also educates patients on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Dentistry on West directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Zacal.

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. Zacal 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 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). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

What payment options are available at Dentistry on West for dental services?

Payment is typically due at the time services are provided. Dentistry on West accepts cash, debit, Visa, and MasterCard. We are also experienced in handling claims for most private dental insurance plans. For details on payment plans for larger treatments, please speak with our administrative staff.

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

Generally, every 6 months is recommended for preventative care. Dr. Zacal 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. Zacal's specific recommendation.

Dentistry on West
369 West St N
Orillia, ON, L3V 5E5

Phone: (705) 326-4351

Dr. Catherine Andrea Zacal 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: 53261

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=53261

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