Dr. Dino Anthony Di Santo

Dr. Dino Anthony Di Santo provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Extensive Dental Treatment Needs

• Requiring Multiple or Lengthy Dental Procedures: Facing comprehensive dental work that could be better managed with the help of sedation to reduce stress, manage time effectively, and allow more treatment to be completed in fewer visits.

Gag Reflex Management

• Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Experiencing a hyperactive or severe gag reflex that significantly interferes with routine dental examinations, X-rays, impressions, or treatments.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.

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

• Intravenous (IV) Sedation (Moderate or 'Twilight' Sedation - If Certified): Administering sedative medications directly into the bloodstream by a specially certified dentist for a deeper, more controlled level of conscious sedation (often referred to as 'twilight sedation'). This technique provides profound relaxation, significant anxiety relief, and often partial to full amnesia of the procedure. Typically used for complex or lengthy procedures, wisdom teeth extractions, or for patients with severe dental phobia or special needs.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Utilizing advanced digital X-ray technology (e.g., bitewings, periapicals, panoramic X-rays) for safe and precise diagnosis of dental conditions.
• Porcelain Veneers & Lumineers: Artistic cosmetic restorations designed to conceal a variety of dental imperfections like chips, gaps, severe stains, or misshapen teeth, creating a harmonious smile.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.

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

At Shelburne Family Dental, 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. Santo frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Santo about a canker sore (aphthous ulcer) that was unusually large, very painful, or taking a long time to heal is to attain receiving a definitive diagnosis for an unusual growth or spot in their mouth, leading to appropriate action. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like enjoying romantic moments without self-consciousness about their breath or smile.
• Dr. Santo understands that dealing with their gums feeling generally puffy, looking a bit darker red than usual, or exhibiting other signs of inflammation can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving achieving the beautiful, confident smile they had always desired through cosmetic dentistry, helping patients comfortably get back to feeling that their smile truly reflects their personality and inner confidence. and feeling their best.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing a specific tooth being noticeably sensitive to pressure or discomfort when they chewed or bit down on food, involves working systematically towards successfully replacing their missing tooth with a strong, natural-looking dental implant. Dr. Santo expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including feeling confident that their oral health is positively contributing to their systemic health.
• Patients experiencing an old dental bridge that felt loose, uncomfortable, or was showing signs of wear and tear often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Santo's practice, a key objective is their receding gums being stabilized or treated, protecting their tooth roots, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in biting into sandwiches or other challenging foods with complete confidence.

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

Shelburne Family Dental, where Dr. Santo practices, is situated in a central location within the Shelburne neighborhood of Shelburne. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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 (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before treatment at Shelburne Family Dental.

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. Santo determines the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) guidelines.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Santo for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Shelburne Family Dental.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Santo 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 gum disease management, and cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding, if offered). They educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for complex needs. Dr. Santo may offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options based on additional training.

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

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Santo will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions (e.g., more frequent visits if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk). Follow Dr. Santo's specific recommendations.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Santo at Shelburne Family Dental?

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

Shelburne Family Dental
407 Owen Sound St PO Box 10
Shelburne, ON, L9V 2W9

Phone: (519) 925-3530

Dr. Dino Anthony Di Santo 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: 12940

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=12940

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