Dr. Florentino F. Afonso – Dentist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Florentino F. Afonso is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at N/A in Toronto, ON, Dr. Afonso is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Afonso 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. Afonso 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. Afonso 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. Florentino F. Afonso earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 1988. With over 37 years of practice since 1988, Dr. Afonso 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: Minimal Nitrous; N/A. Dr. Afonso is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Afonso's dental practice philosophy include: 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. Afonso provides consultations in English.

Dr. Florentino F. Afonso 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): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Specialized considerations for dental treatment in pediatric patients with underlying illnesses.
• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Customized dental approaches to accommodate children with diverse health backgrounds, sensory sensitivities, and varying levels of cooperation, ensuring they receive optimal oral healthcare in a supportive and appropriately adapted setting.

Extensive Dental Treatment Needs

• Requiring Multiple or Lengthy Dental Procedures: Needing several dental treatments, complex procedures, or a particularly long single procedure, for which sedation might be beneficial for patient comfort, cooperation, and treatment efficiency.

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Persistent unpleasant breath odor often linked to oral hygiene issues, gum disease, dry mouth, or other dental conditions.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.

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

• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Dedicated time to review diagnostic findings, explain recommended procedures, and collaboratively create a dental care strategy that meets your needs and goals.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Nutritional advice tailored to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent dental diseases.
• Nitrous Oxide Sedation ('Laughing Gas'): Helping patients of most ages feel significantly calmer, more relaxed, and at ease during their dental treatment with the use of nitrous oxide sedation.
• Oral Conscious Sedation (Anxiolysis): A commonly used sedation option for patients with moderate dental fear or anxiety, allowing them to remain conscious and able to respond to verbal cues but feel deeply relaxed and often have little memory of the procedure.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Afonso. 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. Florentino F. Afonso 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. Afonso frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For patients where an interest in straightening their teeth but a strong preference for avoiding traditional metal braces, exploring clear aligner options is a primary concern, Dr. Afonso focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in their child receiving necessary specialized dental care thanks to a timely referral. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully waking up feeling refreshed, without jaw soreness or tension from nighttime grinding.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Afonso to see patients who were troubled by looking for a new family dentist who could provide comprehensive care for all members of their family, from children to adults successfully achieve a noticeable reduction or cessation of gum bleeding when flossing, indicating improved gingival health. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet.
• When their existing dentures not fitting as comfortably or securely as they used to starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to concentrating fully on their work or studies without the distraction of dental discomfort, Dr. Afonso and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their knocked-out tooth being successfully reimplanted and saved thanks to prompt emergency care and a return to comfort and confidence.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Afonso about their child being referred to a dental specialist for specific or complex treatment needs by their school or another health provider is to attain a single discolored tooth being aesthetically restored to match the rest of their smile. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like confidently taking on speaking roles or performances without concern for their dental appearance or speech clarity.

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

Dr. Afonso's practice, which is N/A, is situated in the Dufferin, Dovercourt Village neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

Yes, Dr. Afonso understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, N/A may offer various sedation options. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Afonso during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Afonso will recommend a personalized schedule based on your (or your child's) individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months) if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between appointments. It is important to follow Dr. Afonso's specific recommendation.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact N/A directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Afonso.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Afonso 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, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may also offer cosmetic procedures such as whitening or bonding. They also provide education on oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. Afonso may offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options based on additional training.

What is N/A's policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations?

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 24 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Afonso. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee of $50-$100. Please inquire with the clinic for the exact fee.

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, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Afonso will determine the frequency based on your individual needs and risk factors, adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles.

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

At your initial appointment, you will fill out a medical history form, discuss any dental issues or goals with Dr. Afonso, and undergo a detailed oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Afonso will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great opportunity to ask questions.

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 hospital settings might be covered. Most dental care is paid out-of-pocket or through private dental insurance. Eligible individuals may access government assistance programs like Healthy Smiles Ontario. Always check your private insurance coverage before treatment.

N/A
900 Dufferin St #1
Toronto, ON, M6H 4A9

Phone: (416) 536-0720

Dr. Florentino F. Afonso 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: 11174

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=11174

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