Dr. Derek W. Haruta – Dentist | St. Thomas, ON

Dr. Derek W. Haruta is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at N/A in St. Thomas, ON, Dr. Haruta is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Haruta 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. Haruta 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. Haruta also provides comprehensive general dental care with various certified levels of sedation (such as nitrous oxide/'laughing gas', oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on specific qualifications) to help anxious patients, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals undergoing extensive procedures feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable throughout their dental treatment.

Dr. Derek W. Haruta earned a Dental Degree from University Of Western Ontario, graduating in 1983. With over 42 years of practice since 1983, Dr. Haruta offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: N/A. Dr. Haruta is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Haruta's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Haruta provides consultations in English.

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

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Early to moderate stages of gum disease involving some bone loss around teeth, managed by GPs with deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• 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.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Providing information about the causes, signs, and stages of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), and how to prevent or manage it effectively.
• 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.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.

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

At N/A, 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. Haruta frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Numerous patients have successfully addressed their gums feeling generally puffy, looking a bit darker red than usual, or exhibiting other signs of inflammation with Dr. Haruta's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their jaw feeling less stiff and more mobile after TMJ therapy or a custom oral appliance and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy their gums feeling healthy and looking good, contributing to overall oral wellness once more.
• When patients discuss a desire to discuss options for a comprehensive 'smile makeover' to address multiple aesthetic concerns, Dr. Haruta outlines a path to their broken amalgam filling being safely removed and replaced with a modern restoration, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably their child focusing better at school, free from the distraction of dental issues.
• Dr. Haruta 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 child calmly receiving dental injections due to a patient and skilled approach, helping patients comfortably get back to their child eating a healthy, varied diet without complaining of tooth pain and feeling their best.
• Patients experiencing a dental problem that was causing significant difficulty or pain when they tried to eat certain types of foods often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Haruta's practice, a key objective is successfully replacing their missing tooth with a strong, natural-looking dental implant, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in their smile reflecting their inner happiness and confidence.

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

Dr. Haruta's practice, which is N/A, is situated in a central location within the St. Thomas neighborhood of St. Thomas. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Haruta is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services. These include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, dental sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may also include some cosmetic procedures (like teeth whitening or bonding). Dr. Haruta also provides valuable education on maintaining good oral hygiene and will refer patients to specialists when more complex care is needed.

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 <strong>not</strong> cover most routine or major dental procedures done in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered by OHIP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It's crucial to check your eligibility for any public coverage and to carefully review your private dental insurance plan details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before beginning treatment at N/A.

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Haruta will personalize your (or your child's) schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients might need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease), while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between appointments. Always follow Dr. Haruta's specific recommendations.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Haruta at N/A?

At your first appointment, Dr. Haruta and the team will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. You'll complete a medical history form, discuss any dental concerns or goals, and undergo a thorough examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Haruta will then explain their assessment and recommend any necessary treatments. It's an excellent opportunity to ask questions.

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

No, you generally don't need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Haruta for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with N/A.

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

Dental X-rays are very safe, particularly modern digital X-rays which use minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are only taken when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Haruta will determine the frequency based on your individual needs and risk factors, following guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

Yes, Dr. Haruta understands that dental anxiety is common. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, N/A offers various sedation options, which may include nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation. Please discuss your anxiety with Dr. Haruta during your consultation so they can determine the most suitable and safe sedation approach for your specific needs and the planned procedure.

N/A
25 Elm St #101
St. Thomas, ON, N5R 0H5

Phone: (519) 631-6641

Dr. Derek W. Haruta 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: 9988

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=9988

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