Dr. David Allen Shapiro

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. David Allen Shapiro addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Malocclusion Orthodontic Issues

• Misaligned Teeth & Jaws Requiring Specialist Orthodontic Correction: Complex issues of tooth crowding, significant spacing, severe protrusion (overjet), or jaw misalignment (e.g., prognathism, retrognathism) requiring the specialized expertise and comprehensive treatment planning of a certified orthodontist.

Crowding Spacing Teeth

• Crowded, Overlapped, or Excessively Spaced Teeth: Seeking orthodontic treatment to align crowded teeth for improved hygiene and appearance, or to close unsightly spaces for a more uniform smile.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.

Overbite Underbite Crossbite

• Specific Bite Problems: Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite, Open Bite: Seeking orthodontic correction for these specific bite discrepancies that can affect chewing, speech, tooth wear, and facial aesthetics.

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

• Comprehensive Orthodontic Diagnosis & Treatment Planning: Specialist evaluation of bite problems, teeth alignment, and jaw relationships using clinical exams, dental models, photographs, and advanced imaging (X-rays, CBCT).
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging: Access to or provision of 3D CBCT scans for detailed imaging of teeth, jawbone, sinuses, and TMJ, essential for complex treatment planning.
• Orthodontic Retainers (Fixed & Removable): Providing and managing custom-made retainers (fixed lingual wires or removable Essix/Hawley retainers) to maintain teeth in their corrected positions after active orthodontic treatment.
• Interceptive Orthodontics & Growth Modification (Phase I Treatment): Early orthodontic intervention for young children to guide jaw growth, correct developing bite problems, improve dental arch space, and potentially reduce the complexity of later treatment.
• Clear Aligner Therapy (e.g., Invisalign®, Spark™): Providing advanced orthodontic treatment with a series of custom-made, removable clear plastic aligners to gradually straighten teeth discreetly.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Shapiro is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Taunton Orthodontics, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Effectively addressing a single tooth that had become noticeably darker in color than the adjacent teeth, possibly after trauma with Dr. Shapiro's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of achieving the beautiful, confident smile they had always desired through cosmetic dentistry, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in their child being able to eat nutritious crunchy fruits and vegetables without discomfort and social interactions.
• Dr. Shapiro understands that dealing with feeling like their jaw was often stiff, sore, or difficult to move freely, especially upon waking in the morning can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving their jaw no longer clicking or popping painfully, and jaw movement feeling smoother, helping patients comfortably get back to their child showing pride in their healthy smile and good brushing habits and feeling their best.
• Overcoming or effectively managing feeling like food consistently and annoyingly got stuck between certain teeth after meals is a common journey for patients under Dr. Shapiro's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling their child's toothache being resolved, and the tooth saved with appropriate treatment, so that daily routines and pleasures like confidently recommending their dentist, {preferred_name}, to friends and family based on their positive experiences become straightforward again.
• At Dr. Shapiro's clinic, addressing persistent bad breath (halitosis) that didn't seem to improve despite good hygiene means focusing on patient goals. Achieving the dark spot on their tooth being treated, preventing a larger cavity from forming helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to their overall facial aesthetics being enhanced by well-planned dental and/or facial esthetic treatments.

Your specialized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Shapiro, will be meticulously designed to address your unique concerns and help you reach your specific objectives within their area of expertise. Dr. Shapiro is committed to providing the highest standard of specialized care, tailored to your individual needs.

Taunton Orthodontics, where Dr. Shapiro practices, is situated in the Rolling Acres, Pringle Creek neighborhood of Whitby. The clinic is conveniently located near Thickson's Woods Land Trust and is accessible via Durham Region Transit (DRT). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Shapiro at Taunton Orthodontics?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Shapiro and the team at Taunton Orthodontics 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. Shapiro will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

How long does orthodontic treatment (e.g., braces, Invisalign®) usually take with Dr. Shapiro?

Treatment time varies greatly depending on the complexity of the case, the patient's age, the type of appliance used, and the patient's compliance with the treatment plan. Average treatment can range from 12 to 36 months. Dr. Shapiro will provide a personalized estimate after a comprehensive orthodontic assessment.

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months for preventative care. However, Dr. Shapiro will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, some patients may need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between visits. It is important to follow Dr. Shapiro's specific recommendations.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Shapiro for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Taunton Orthodontics.

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 provided by 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 any potential public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at Taunton Orthodontics.

Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see a dental specialist (e.g., Orthodontist, Periodontist)?

While some dental specialists may accept patients directly, it is often recommended, and sometimes required by the specialist or insurance plans, to have a referral from a general dentist. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Shapiro identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider if you are unsure.

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 radiation exposure. 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. Shapiro 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).

Taunton Orthodontics
140 Taunton Rd W #1B
Whitby, ON, L1R 3H8

Phone: (905) 620-0056

Dr. David Allen Shapiro is a licensed Orthodontist 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: 13857

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=13857

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