Dr. Derek T. Ong – Dentist | Spruce Grove, AB

Dr. Derek T. Ong is a Dentist (Facial Esthetic Injectables). Practicing at a dentist practice in Spruce Grove, AB, Dr. Ong is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Ong is licensed by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in AB. Dr. Ong 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. Ong also offers facial esthetic treatments using therapeutic neuromodulators (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin® for bruxism, TMJ pain, or cosmetic enhancement of the upper face such as frown lines and crow's feet) and/or dermal fillers to complement dental aesthetics, address facial harmony, and rejuvenate facial appearance, based on their specific certified training levels. Dr. Ong provides comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and management for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, bruxism (teeth clenching and grinding), and related orofacial pain conditions (such as myofascial pain). Treatment approaches are often conservative and non-surgical, potentially including occlusal splints (night guards), patient education, therapeutic exercises, and, if certified, the use of neuromodulators for muscle relaxation or pain relief. Dr. Ong 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 the clinic.

Dr. Derek T. Ong earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Ong brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Ong offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with a Focus on TMJ, Bruxism & Orofacial Pain Management and General Dentistry with Facial Esthetic Services (Neuromodulators & Dermal Fillers). Dr. Ong is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Ong's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Ong provides consultations in English.

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

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Providing immediate care for teeth that have been knocked out (avulsed), dislodged, or fractured due to an accident or injury, aiming to save the tooth if possible.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Persistent unpleasant breath odor often linked to oral hygiene issues, gum disease, dry mouth, or other dental conditions.

Tmj Disorders Bruxism

• Jaw Pain, Clicking, Popping, or Locking (TMJ Symptoms): Experiencing pain, discomfort, clicking sounds, popping sensations, or episodes of jaw locking in the jaw joint (TMJ) or surrounding facial muscles.
• Limited Jaw Opening (Trismus) or Difficulty Chewing Comfortably: Functional limitations of the jaw movement and masticatory system that require careful assessment and appropriate treatment.

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

• Smile Makeovers (Comprehensive Cosmetic Treatment Planning): Comprehensive aesthetic assessment and collaborative planning of multiple cosmetic dental procedures (e.g., whitening, veneers, bonding, crowns, gum contouring) to achieve a desired, harmonious, and transformative smile outcome.
• 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.
• Professional Teeth Whitening (In-Office & Take-Home Kits): Offering safe and effective in-office (chairside) or custom-fitted take-home teeth whitening (bleaching) treatments to significantly brighten your smile and remove extrinsic and some intrinsic stains.
• TMJ/TMD Assessment, Diagnosis & Orofacial Pain Evaluation: Diagnosing various temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and other orofacial pain conditions through a detailed patient history, thorough clinical examination, and, if necessary, adjunctive diagnostic aids or imaging.
• Neuromodulator Treatments (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®) for Therapeutic & Cosmetic Uses: Administering precise injections of neuromodulators for therapeutic purposes within the dental scope (e.g., reducing muscle activity in chronic migraines, alleviating pain from TMJ disorders/bruxism by targeting masticatory muscles, managing hyperhidrosis in specific areas if trained) or for common cosmetic applications (e.g., smoothing dynamic wrinkles such as frown lines/glabellar lines, forehead wrinkles, and crow's feet around the eyes), based on certified training and provincial regulations.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Ong. 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. Derek T. Ong adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

At Dr. Derek T. Ong's practice, 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. Ong frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Ong when they first notice concerns about grinding their teeth so forcefully or frequently that their jaw muscles ached or they experienced morning headaches. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their recurrent canker sores becoming less frequent or less severe with management strategies, enabling them to once again enjoy their child focusing better at school, free from the distraction of dental issues without hesitation.
• Understanding the frustration a child in their care who had special healthcare needs (physical, cognitive, or behavioral) and required a particularly patient, understanding, and accommodating dental provider can cause, Dr. Ong tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve having a comfortable, stable, and functional full-mouth tooth replacement solution, like implant-supported dentures, allowing for renewed participation in activities like biting into sandwiches or other challenging foods with complete confidence.
• Through Dr. Ong's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from persistent bad breath (halitosis) that didn't seem to improve despite good hygiene often find they can readily achieve their child feeling positive and at ease during their regular dental visits and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like enjoying a cold ice cream or a hot cup of coffee without wincing from tooth sensitivity.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Ong about needing practical advice and guidance on how to properly care for their toddler's newly erupted first teeth is to attain clarity on their child's dental eruption sequence and any potential developmental concerns. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like their child being able_to focus on learning and playing without the interruption of dental pain.

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

Dr. Ong's practice, a dental office in Spruce Grove, is situated in the Spruce Grove City neighborhood of Spruce Grove. The clinic is conveniently located near Spruce Grove Public Library and is accessible via Spruce Grove Transit (Local & Commuter to Edmonton). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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 always used. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Ong 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).

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Ong 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. Ong also educates patients on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. Ong may offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with a Focus on TMJ, Bruxism & Orofacial Pain Management based on additional training.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Ong at the clinic?

Your first visit with Dr. Ong 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. Ong will discuss their 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.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact our clinic directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Ong.

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

To effectively prevent cavities, maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing thoroughly twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. It's also crucial to eat a balanced diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods/drinks, especially between meals. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings with Dr. Ong are essential for early detection and prevention. Dr. Ong may also recommend dental sealants or professional fluoride treatments for added protection, particularly for children.

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

Generally, every 6 months is recommended for most patients for preventative care. However, Dr. Ong 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). It is important to follow Dr. Ong's specific recommendation.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

In Alberta, provincial health plans like the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) 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). It is important to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

70 McLeod Avenue, 106 Westland Market Mall
Spruce Grove, AB, T7X 3C7

Phone: (780) 962-9433

Dr. Derek T. Ong is a licensed Dentist in AB, regulated by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) under the Health Professions Act (Alberta).

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

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