Dr. Colin Ray Robertson

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

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Customized dental approaches to accommodate children with diverse health backgrounds, sensory sensitivities, and varying levels of cooperation, ensuring they receive optimal oral healthcare in a supportive and appropriately adapted setting.
• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Seeking a dental provider experienced in managing the oral health of children with complex medical histories.

Extensive Dental Treatment Needs

• Requiring Multiple or Lengthy Dental Procedures: Patients with extensive restorative, surgical, or cosmetic needs who may benefit from sedation for a more manageable and positive dental experience.

Dental Anxiety Phobia

• History of Traumatic Dental Experiences: Needing a dentist who can help overcome fear stemming from prior difficult experiences and rebuild trust.
• Fear or Anxiety about Dental Visits/Procedures: Experiencing significant dental anxiety or phobia that makes it difficult to seek or undergo necessary dental treatment.

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

• Dental Sealants: A simple and effective preventative measure to reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Repairing cavities and minor tooth defects with durable, natural-looking composite resin fillings that blend seamlessly with your existing teeth.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Providing guidance on how dietary choices impact oral health, including advice on reducing sugary food/drink intake and promoting tooth-friendly nutrition.
• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): Extraction of teeth that are not straightforward to remove due to their position, root morphology, or condition, performed within the scope of general dental practice and comfort level.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Replacing one or more missing teeth with a fixed (non-removable) dental bridge, typically anchored to adjacent natural teeth (abutments) or dental implants, to restore chewing function, maintain tooth alignment, and improve smile aesthetics.

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

At Harbourview Dentistry, 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. Robertson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients frequently come to Dr. Robertson with concerns about a dental problem that was causing significant difficulty or pain when they tried to eat certain types of foods. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve their child calmly receiving dental injections due to a patient and skilled approach, making a positive and lasting return to playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort not just possible, but highly feasible.
• A key objective when treating looking for a new family dentist who could provide comprehensive care for all members of their family, from children to adults at Dr. Robertson's welcoming dental clinic is achieving experiencing complete relief from pain when biting down on a previously problematic tooth. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like their ability to enunciate words clearly for better communication.
• Are you struggling with one of their teeth starting to feel a bit loose or wobbly? Dr. Robertson partners with patients to target the sore spot or ulcer in their mouth healing completely after diagnosis and treatment, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as feeling comfortable with close-up interactions and conversations a much more achievable reality.
• Dr. Robertson often consults with patients whose wanting to understand what was causing their teeth to appear worn down, shorter, or a bit translucent significantly limits their enjoyment of enjoying the peace of mind that comes with a healthy, well-maintained mouth or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve transitioning from a removable partial denture to a more permanent and comfortable tooth replacement option and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.

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

Harbourview Dentistry, where Dr. Robertson practices, is situated in the Port Arthur Central (Downtown North Core, Waterfront area) neighborhood of Thunder Bay. The clinic is conveniently located near Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (nearby) and is accessible via Thunder Bay Transit. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

In Ontario, 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, social assistance recipients). Check your eligibility for public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before treatment at Harbourview Dentistry.

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, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Robertson determines the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) guidelines.

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

Typically, no referral is needed to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Contact Harbourview Dentistry directly to arrange your visit with Dr. Robertson.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Robertson is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, 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 cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. Robertson may offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options based on additional training.

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

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Robertson will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions (e.g., more frequent visits for active gum disease or high caries risk). Follow Dr. Robertson's specific recommendation.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Robertson at Harbourview Dentistry?

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive dental examination: 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. Robertson will discuss findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled.

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

Yes, Dr. Robertson understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety. Harbourview Dentistry offers various sedation options, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on Dr. Robertson's assessment and your needs. Discuss your anxiety with Dr. Robertson during your consultation to determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach.

What are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?

Early signs of gum disease (gingivitis) often include red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums (especially when brushing or flossing), and sometimes persistent bad breath. Periodontitis may show receding gums, pus between teeth and gums, loose teeth, or changes in your bite. Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Robertson if you observe these symptoms.

Harbourview Dentistry
91 Cumberland St S
Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 6A7

Phone: (807) 345-2211

Dr. Colin Ray Robertson 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: 503109

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=503109

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