Dr. Deepika Chugh – Dentist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Deepika Chugh is a Oral Medicine & Pathology Specialist. Practicing at Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto in Toronto, ON, Dr. Chugh is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Chugh 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. As a certified specialist in Oral Medicine and Pathology, Dr. Chugh focuses on the diagnosis, non-surgical management, and investigation of diseases affecting the oral and maxillofacial region. This includes complex mucosal diseases (e.g., lichen planus, pemphigoid, recurrent aphthous stomatitis), salivary gland disorders (e.g., Sjögren's syndrome, xerostomia), orofacial pain conditions (e.g., burning mouth syndrome, neuropathic pain), oral manifestations of systemic diseases, and the histopathological (microscopic) diagnosis of biopsies taken from the oral cavity. Dr. Chugh 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 Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto.

Dr. Deepika Chugh earned a Dental Degree from State University Of New York, graduating in 2002. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Oral Medicine & Oral Pathology at the University of Toronto in 2008. With over 22 years of practice since 2003, Dr. Chugh's extensive clinical experience has provided them with a deep understanding of various oral health conditions. Dr. Chugh 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. Chugh's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Chugh provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Oral Medicine & Oral Pathology, Dr. Deepika Chugh addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Oral Pathology Detection

• Suspicious Lesions, Sores, Lumps, or Patches in the Mouth or on Lips: Concerns about any unusual changes in the appearance or texture of the mouth lining that need to be accurately diagnosed to rule out infection, inflammatory conditions, precancerous changes, or oral cancer.

Oral Cancer Premalignant Lesions Diagnosis

• Suspicion or Confirmed Diagnosis of Oral Precancerous Lesions (e.g., Leukoplakia, Erythroplakia, Oral Submucous Fibrosis) or Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Seeking expert evaluation, accurate diagnosis (including staging if malignant), and comprehensive treatment planning for potentially life-threatening oral lesions.

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.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.

Salivary Gland Disorders

• Persistent Dry Mouth (Xerostomia), Salivary Gland Swelling, or Symptoms of Sjögren's Syndrome: Seeking accurate diagnosis and comprehensive management for conditions affecting normal saliva production and salivary gland health, including sialometry, serological testing, or minor salivary gland biopsy if indicated.

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

• Diagnosis & Management of Oral Mucosal Diseases: Expert evaluation and treatment strategies for chronic or recurrent sores, blisters, or white/red patches in the mouth.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Fostering informed decision-making through comprehensive patient education about their dental health status and available treatment pathways.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Comprehensive dental imaging services, including panoramic and intraoral X-rays, to aid in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Chugh. 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. Deepika Chugh adhere to scope of practice for Oral Medicine & Pathology Specialists in ON and standards of The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO).

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Oral Medicine & Oral Pathology, Dr. Chugh is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• The primary focus for patients seeking help for their child needing preventative dental sealants applied to their newly erupted permanent molars to protect against cavities at Dr. Chugh's practice is consistently achieving their gums looking pink and healthy again after treatment for gingivitis or early gum disease. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as their ability to taste and appreciate food fully, unmarred by dental pain or infection.
• Overcoming or effectively managing a tooth that felt 'high' or uncomfortable after a recent dental filling, affecting their bite is a common journey for patients under Dr. Chugh's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling their problematic wisdom tooth being removed, alleviating pain and preventing future issues, so that daily routines and pleasures like their children being able to enjoy treats in moderation without an excessive fear of immediate cavities due to good preventative care become straightforward again.
• Dr. Chugh expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of ongoing concerns about bad breath that they believed might be related to a hidden dental infection or persistent gum problem. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their knocked-out tooth being successfully reimplanted and saved thanks to prompt emergency care, means they can happily and comfortably get back to knowing their teeth are well-protected from decay and damage.
• Many people seek Dr. Chugh's professional help and expertise when dealing with a desire for professional advice on how to effectively stop their child's cavities from getting worse or prevent new ones from forming. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently their child stopping their thumb-sucking habit with supportive guidance, protecting their dental development, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to feeling comfortable with close-up interactions and conversations.

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

Dr. Chugh's practice, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, is situated in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near US Consulate and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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. Chugh identifies a need for specialist care, she will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. If unsure, check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Chugh.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Chugh at Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto?

Your first visit with Dr. Chugh 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. Chugh will discuss her 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.

If I have a mouth sore, will Dr. Chugh (Oral Medicine/Pathology Specialist) always do a biopsy?

Dr. Chugh will conduct a thorough clinical examination. A biopsy is a diagnostic tool used if a lesion is suspicious or its nature cannot be determined by examination alone. Not all sores require a biopsy; some may be diagnosed and managed based on clinical appearance and history. Dr. Chugh will discuss if a biopsy is recommended for an accurate diagnosis.

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, social assistance recipients). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Chugh 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. Chugh's specific recommendation.

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 diagnostically necessary. Dr. Chugh 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).

Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto
124 Edward St #308
Toronto, ON, M5G 1G6

Phone: (416) 864-8244

Dr. Deepika Chugh is a licensed Oral Medicine & Pathology Specialist 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: 56594

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=56594

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