Dr. Chih-Hsien James Ko – Dentist | Maple, ON

Dr. Chih-Hsien James Ko is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at Mapleridge Smile Centre Dental in Maple, ON, Dr. Ko is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Ko 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. Ko 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. Ko 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. Dr. Ko utilizes advanced dental imaging technologies, such as Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), for superior diagnostic capabilities and precise treatment planning for complex cases including dental implants, orthodontics, endodontics, impacted teeth, or assessment of oral pathology. For patient convenience, direct billing to many major dental insurance plans may be available at Mapleridge Smile Centre Dental.

Dr. Chih-Hsien James Ko earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 2014. With over 11 years of practice since 2014, Dr. Ko 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. Ko is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Ko's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Ko provides consultations in English.

Dr. Chih-Hsien James Ko provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Oral Pathology Detection

• Suspicious Lesions, Sores, Lumps, or Patches in the Mouth or on Lips: Seeking timely assessment by a dentist for any unexplained or persistent lesions within the oral soft tissues or on the lips to ensure early detection of any serious conditions.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Seeking a dental provider experienced in managing the oral health of children with complex medical histories.
• 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.

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.

Gag Reflex Management

• Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Experiencing a hyperactive or severe gag reflex that significantly interferes with routine dental examinations, X-rays, impressions, or treatments.

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

• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Gentle and efficient extraction of problematic teeth when deemed necessary to maintain overall oral health, resolve infection, or alleviate persistent pain.
• Surgical Placement of Dental Implants (Single & Multiple - within GP Scope): Performing the surgical phase of implant treatment in the dental office, including placement of one or more implants in sites with adequate bone.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Thorough dental cleanings by a registered dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and surface stains, promoting healthy gums and teeth.
• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Custom-fabricated porcelain or composite resin inlays (fitting precisely within the tooth cusps) and onlays (covering one or more cusps) to restore moderately damaged teeth while preserving maximum healthy tooth structure.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Comprehensive discussions to ensure you are fully informed and comfortable with your proposed dental treatment.

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

At Mapleridge Smile Centre Dental, 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. Ko frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Effectively addressing a desire to explore more permanent or stable options for replacing all of their missing teeth effectively with Dr. Ko's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of feeling significantly more relaxed and calm during dental visits due to effective anxiety management strategies or sedation, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in their dental implants feeling and functioning just like their natural teeth and social interactions.
• If noticing a concerning dark spot on one of their teeth, possibly a cavity is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Ko develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at feeling refreshed and clean after a thorough professional dental cleaning and check-up. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort.
• With Dr. Ko's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing a desire to ensure their current oral hygiene routine at home was truly effective and optimal is focused on achieving their jaw feeling less stiff and more mobile after TMJ therapy or a custom oral appliance. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to feeling refreshed and confident with consistently fresh breath throughout the day without dental concerns.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for recognizing the need for a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) because it had been a significant time since their last professional hygiene visit at Dr. Ko's practice is consistently achieving clarity on their child's dental eruption sequence and any potential developmental concerns. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as their child eating a healthy, varied diet without complaining of tooth pain.

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

Mapleridge Smile Centre Dental, where Dr. Ko practices, is situated in a central location within the Maple neighborhood of Maple. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

Yes, Dr. Ko understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, Mapleridge Smile Centre Dental may offer various sedation options. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Ko during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Ko at Mapleridge Smile Centre Dental?

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

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Mapleridge Smile Centre Dental directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Ko.

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

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

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. Ko 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).

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

Generally, every 6 months for most patients is recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Ko will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals). Following Dr. Ko's specific recommendation is essential.

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 (often through employers) 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 private dental insurance details before treatment.

What are the most effective ways to prevent cavities (tooth decay)?

Cavity prevention relies on consistent home care and regular professional support from Dr. Ko. This includes brushing for two minutes twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing, minimizing sugary snacks and beverages, and attending routine dental exams and cleanings at Mapleridge Smile Centre Dental. Dental sealants or in-office fluoride applications might also be suggested.

Mapleridge Smile Centre Dental
10175 Keele St #4
Maple, ON, L6A 3Y9

Phone: (905) 832-9008

Dr. Chih-Hsien James Ko 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: 100981

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=100981

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