Dr. Desideria D. Pura – Dentist | Mississauga, ON

Dr. Desideria D. Pura is a Dentist. Practicing at Applewood Hills Dental Centre in Mississauga, ON, Dr. Pura is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Pura 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. Pura 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. Pura 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 Applewood Hills Dental Centre.

Dr. Desideria D. Pura earned a Dental Degree from Manila Central University, graduating in 1982. With over 29 years of practice since 1996, Dr. Pura is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. Dr. Pura's commitment to professional development ensures patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Pura's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Pura provides consultations in English.

Dr. Desideria D. Pura 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

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

Dental Pain Emergency

• 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.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
• 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.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.

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

• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Designing, fabricating, and fitting comfortable, functional, and natural-looking complete dentures (for patients missing all teeth in an arch) or partial dentures (for patients missing some teeth) to restore chewing ability, speech, and smile aesthetics. Options may include implant-supported dentures for enhanced stability.
• 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.
• Dental Sealants: Protective sealants for children and adolescents to safeguard vulnerable back teeth from decay.
• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): Removal of some erupted or partially erupted teeth, including some erupted wisdom teeth, that may require minor surgical techniques such as sectioning the tooth or minimal bone removal for access, depending on the dentist's training, experience, and case complexity.

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

At Applewood Hills Dental Centre, 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. Pura frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Numerous patients have successfully addressed waking up frequently with a sore jaw, facial muscle tenderness, or tension headaches, possibly from teeth grinding with Dr. Pura's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their recurrent canker sores becoming less frequent or less severe with management strategies and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy their ability to savor the flavors of food being enhanced due to a healthy mouth once more.
• For those affected by noticing their gums seemed to be receding or pulling away from their teeth, making teeth look longer, Dr. Pura provides solutions that lead to their gums looking pink and healthy again after treatment for gingivitis or early gum disease. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to their smile being ready for any impromptu photo opportunity or social media post.
• Dr. Pura provides dedicated support for patients going through their teeth feeling overly sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli, always aiming for positive outcomes like their child's newly erupted molars being protected from decay with dental sealants, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as confidently recommending their dentist, {preferred_name}, to friends and family based on their positive experiences.
• Dr. Pura understands that dealing with 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 be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving having a custom-fitted sports mouthguard to protect their smile during athletic activities, helping patients comfortably get back to no longer having to worry about a loose crown or bridge when they are out and feeling their best.

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

Applewood Hills Dental Centre, where Dr. Pura practices, is situated in the Cooksville East, Mississauga Valleys neighborhood of Mississauga. The clinic is conveniently located near Cooksville GO Station and is accessible via MiWay (Mississauga Transit). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

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

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 regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before treatment at Applewood Hills Dental Centre.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Pura will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions. Some patients may need visits every 3-4 months, while others might have slightly longer intervals. Follow Dr. Pura's specific recommendations.

What are dental implants, and how do I know if I'm a suitable candidate?

Dental implants are small, medical-grade titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They provide a strong foundation for fixed (crowns, bridges) or removable replacement teeth (dentures). Good candidates generally have healthy gums and adequate jawbone density. Dr. Pura can perform a comprehensive assessment, including X-rays or 3D CBCT imaging, to evaluate your suitability. Dr. Pura can discuss implants as an option and refer you to an implant specialist if appropriate.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Pura is the primary dental care provider, 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 may offer cosmetic procedures. They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for complex needs.

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. Pura will determine the frequency based on your individual needs, adhering to ALARA guidelines (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

While some specialists accept patients directly, a referral from a general dentist like Dr. Pura is often recommended or required by the specialist or insurance plans. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information. If Dr. Pura identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Pura at Applewood Hills Dental Centre?

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. Pura will discuss findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled.

Applewood Hills Dental Centre
1125 Bloor St E #18A
Mississauga, ON, L4Y 2N6

Phone: (905) 275-2038

Dr. Desideria D. Pura 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: 13339

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=13339

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