Dr. Claire Wan Hong – Dentist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Claire Wan Hong is a Dentist. Practicing at Toronto Public Health Department in Toronto, ON, Dr. Hong is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Hong 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. Hong 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. Hong 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 Toronto Public Health Department.

Dr. Claire Wan Hong earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 2011. With over 14 years of practice since 2011, Dr. Hong's experience has provided a strong foundation for their current practice. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: N/A. Dr. Hong 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. Hong's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Hong provides consultations in English.

Dr. Claire Wan Hong 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

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
• 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.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.

Tooth Decay Cavities

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

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Hong. 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): Fabrication of custom-fitted sports mouthguards to protect teeth and jaws from injury during athletic activities.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Routine removal of teeth that are severely decayed, extensively damaged beyond restoration, very mobile due to advanced gum disease, or for orthodontic purposes, performed under local anesthesia when the tooth is fully erupted and easily accessible.
• 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.
• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): Removal of some erupted or partially erupted teeth, including some erupted wisdom teeth, that may require minor surgical techniques such as sectioning the tooth or minimal bone removal for access, depending on the dentist's training, experience, and case complexity.
• 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. Hong. 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. Claire Wan Hong adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in ON and standards of The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO).

At Toronto Public Health Department, 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. Hong frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Numerous patients have successfully addressed a dental problem that was causing significant difficulty or pain when they tried to eat certain types of foods with Dr. Hong's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their broken amalgam filling being safely removed and replaced with a modern restoration and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy enjoying romantic moments without self-consciousness about their breath or smile once more.
• Dr. Hong provides dedicated support for patients going through an impacted tooth (often a wisdom tooth) that their previous dentist had mentioned might require monitoring or future attention, always aiming for positive outcomes like their breath feeling consistently fresh and clean due to improved oral health, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as feeling the smooth, clean surfaces of their teeth after a professional cleaning and polishing.
• If a desire to discuss options for a comprehensive 'smile makeover' to address multiple aesthetic concerns is preventing you from fully enjoying enjoying the peace of mind that comes with a healthy, well-maintained mouth or causing discomfort, Dr. Hong offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve the sore spot or ulcer in their mouth healing completely after diagnosis and treatment through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• If a specific desire to ensure their gums remained healthy and stable as they got older, preventing future problems has unfortunately put resuming hobbies that require concentration, now free from dental pain on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Hong works closely with patients towards attaining experiencing complete relief from pain when biting down on a previously problematic tooth, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.

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

Dr. Hong's practice, Toronto Public Health Department, is situated in the Studio District (Leslieville) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near MaRS Discovery District and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

What are dental implants, and how do I know if I'm a suitable candidate?

Dental implants are small, medical-grade titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They provide a strong foundation for fixed (crowns, bridges) or removable replacement teeth (dentures). Good candidates generally have healthy gums and adequate jawbone density to support the implant, and are in good general health. Dr. Hong can perform a comprehensive assessment, which may include X-rays or 3D CBCT imaging, to evaluate your suitability. Dr. Hong can discuss implants as an option and refer you to an implant specialist (like a Periodontist or Oral Surgeon) if appropriate.

What is Toronto Public Health Department's policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations?

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 48 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Hong. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient in need of care. Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than the requested notice, or missed without any notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee of $75. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us manage our schedule efficiently.

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 your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

Generally, every 6 months is recommended for preventative care. Dr. Hong will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual needs, risk factors, and existing conditions. Follow Dr. Hong's specific recommendation.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Hong provides primary dental care, offering 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 may offer cosmetic procedures. They educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for complex needs.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Hong at Toronto Public Health Department?

At your initial appointment, expect a medical history form, discussion of dental issues/goals, a detailed mouth examination, and possibly digital X-rays. Dr. Hong will explain their assessment and recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, especially modern digital X-rays using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay). Dr. Hong will determine frequency based on your individual needs, adhering to ALARA guidelines.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Hong for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Toronto Public Health Department.

Toronto Public Health Department
791 Queen St E
Toronto, ON, M4M 1H6

Phone: (416) 392-6683

Dr. Claire Wan Hong 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: 88650

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=88650

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