Dr. Ernest Wing Ngai Lam – Dentist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Ernest Wing Ngai Lam is a Dentist (Advanced Dental Imaging - CT Scans). Practicing at University of Toronto, Fac of Dent in Toronto, ON, Dr. Lam is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Lam 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. Lam 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. Lam utilizes advanced dental imaging technologies, such as Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), for superior diagnostic capabilities and precise treatment planning for complex cases including dental implants, orthodontics, endodontics, impacted teeth, or assessment of oral pathology. Dr. Lam 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 University of Toronto, Fac of Dent.

Dr. Ernest Wing Ngai Lam earned a Dental Degree from University Of British Columbia, graduating in 1989. Dr. Lam brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Lam offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry Utilizing Advanced Dental Imaging (CBCT/CT Scans). This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: 1994 - University of Iowa, United States (Oral Radiologist); N/A. Dr. Lam is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Lam's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Lam provides consultations in English.

Dr. Ernest Wing Ngai Lam provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Impacted Teeth Assessment

• Concerns about Impacted or Unerupted Teeth (e.g., Wisdom Teeth, Canines): Needing professional assessment, often including X-rays or CBCT imaging, of impacted or unerupted teeth to determine if extraction, surgical exposure, or other management is necessary to prevent complications.

Dental Implant Planning

• Comprehensive Assessment of Jawbone for Dental Implant Suitability: Detailed pre-operative assessment and diagnostic workup specifically for dental implant surgery, including evaluation of adjacent anatomical structures.

Gum Disease Initial

• 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.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.

Oral Pathology Detection

• Suspicious Lesions, Sores, Lumps, or Patches in the Mouth or on Lips: Discovering a new, changing, or non-healing sore, ulcer, lump, white patch (leukoplakia), red patch (erythroplakia), or other unusual abnormality in the oral cavity (gums, tongue, cheeks, palate, floor of mouth) or on the lips, requiring prompt professional evaluation and diagnosis.

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

• Clear Aligner Therapy (Limited Cases by GP, if specifically trained): Providing discreet orthodontic treatment with removable clear aligners for suitable, less complex alignment issues within a general practice setting.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Guidance on the best tools and methods for cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly to prevent dental problems.
• 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.
• Restoration of Dental Implants (Custom Crowns, Bridges, Dentures): Attaching custom-fabricated, aesthetically matched crowns, bridges, or dentures securely onto previously placed and integrated dental implants to complete the tooth replacement process and restore full function.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: High-resolution dental photography for documenting conditions, planning treatments, and tracking progress.

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

At University of Toronto, Fac of Dent, 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. Lam frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• If their child being overdue for their regular dental visit and preventative care has unfortunately put being able to use their teeth for all normal functions without a second thought on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Lam works closely with patients towards attaining their child stopping their thumb-sucking habit with supportive guidance, protecting their dental development, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• For individuals troubled by experiencing significant fear or deep-seated anxiety about upcoming dental visits, Dr. Lam's approach is focused on delivering achieving straighter teeth and an improved bite with discreet clear aligner therapy. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like their child being free of dental infections that could affect their overall health and school attendance with a healthier smile.
• Many people seek Dr. Lam's professional help and expertise when dealing with one of their teeth starting to feel a bit loose or wobbly. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently experiencing complete relief from pain when biting down on a previously problematic tooth, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to delivering important presentations or public speeches with clarity and self-assurance.
• For patients where feeling like their teeth were gradually shifting position or their bite was changing noticeably over time is a primary concern, Dr. Lam focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in no longer experiencing annoying food impaction between their teeth after restorative treatment. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully feeling good about their overall appearance and the positive first impression their smile makes.

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

Dr. Lam's practice, University of Toronto, Fac of Dent, is situated in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Nathan Phillips Square and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). 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 (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Lam 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).

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. Some limited dental surgeries in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance, or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

Generally, every 6 months is recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Lam will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions. Follow Dr. Lam's specific recommendation.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Lam at University of Toronto, Fac of Dent?

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

I experience jaw pain, clicking, and headaches. Can Dr. Lam help with TMJ/TMD issues?

Dr. Lam can perform an initial assessment of your jaw pain and related symptoms. Depending on the findings and complexity, they may offer some conservative management advice or provide a referral to a dentist or specialist with advanced training in TMJ disorders if more specialized care is indicated.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Lam provides primary dental care, offering preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns), basic endodontics, simple extractions, initial gum disease management, and may offer cosmetic procedures. They educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for complex needs.

What is the process for becoming a new patient at University of Toronto, Fac of Dent with Dr. Lam?

To become a new patient, please call (416) 979-4900 or visit our website if online booking is available. Our team will schedule your first appointment, a comprehensive examination and consultation. Please provide your medical history and dental insurance information.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral to see a general dentist for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can book an appointment directly.

University of Toronto, Fac of Dent
124 Edward St
Toronto, ON, M5G 1G6

Phone: (416) 979-4900

Dr. Ernest Wing Ngai Lam 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: 65832

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=65832

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