Dr. France Lafontaine – Dentist | Saint-Hippolyte, QC

Dr. France Lafontaine is a Dentiste. Practicing at CENTRE DENTAIRE ST-HIPPOLYTE in Saint-Hippolyte, QC, Dr Lafontaine is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr Lafontaine is licensed by The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in QC. Dr Lafontaine 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 Lafontaine 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 CENTRE DENTAIRE ST-HIPPOLYTE.

Dr. France Lafontaine earned a Dental Degree. Dr Lafontaine brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr Lafontaine is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr Lafontaine remains at the forefront of advancements in dental technology and techniques, consistently delivering the highest standard of care to their patients. Dr Lafontaine's professional development is a testament to their commitment to excellence and their dedication to providing patients with the most effective and comfortable dental experience possible.

Key aspects of Dr Lafontaine's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; 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 Lafontaine provides consultations in English.

Dr. France Lafontaine 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): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.

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

• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Personalized instruction and demonstration of proper brushing and flossing techniques to effectively remove plaque and maintain optimal oral hygiene at home.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Metal-free white fillings to restore tooth structure, function, and maintain a natural, healthy-looking smile.
• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Custom-fabricated porcelain or composite resin inlays (fitting precisely within the tooth cusps) and onlays (covering one or more cusps) to restore moderately damaged teeth while preserving maximum healthy tooth structure.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr Lafontaine. 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. France Lafontaine adhere to scope of practice for Dentistes in QC and standards of The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ).

At CENTRE DENTAIRE ST-HIPPOLYTE, 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 Lafontaine frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The primary focus for patients seeking help for a strong desire to improve the overall aesthetic appearance of their smile at Dr Lafontaine's practice is consistently achieving being able to enjoy a wider variety of foods without pain or difficulty chewing. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as their ability to enunciate words clearly for better communication.
• Dr Lafontaine expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of a persistent toothache that just wouldn't quit for them. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by the dark spot on their tooth being treated, preventing a larger cavity from forming, means they can happily and comfortably get back to laughing openly and heartily without worrying about the appearance of their teeth.
• Patients presenting with a tooth that felt 'high' or uncomfortable after a recent dental filling, affecting their bite can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their partner reporting less snoring or cessation of breathing pauses during sleep after starting treatment with a dental sleep apnea appliance (facilitated by their dentist) under Dr Lafontaine's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume their dentures feeling so secure they almost forget they are wearing them without the former limitations or discomfort.
• When needing a thorough dental check-up and clearance before starting a major medical treatment or undergoing surgery (e.g., cardiac surgery, organ transplant, chemotherapy) begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr Lafontaine helps patients strive for a noticeable reduction or cessation of gum bleeding when flossing, indicating improved gingival health. This makes participating in activities such as their dental implants feeling and functioning just like their natural teeth a pleasant and possible experience again.

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

CENTRE DENTAIRE ST-HIPPOLYTE, where Dr Lafontaine practices, is situated in a central location within the Saint-Hippolyte neighborhood of Saint-Hippolyte. 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.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

In Quebec, provincial health plans like the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) typically do <strong>not</strong> 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 <em>might</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). It is crucial to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at CENTRE DENTAIRE ST-HIPPOLYTE.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr Lafontaine 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 essential to follow Dr Lafontaine's specific recommendations.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr Lafontaine for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with CENTRE DENTAIRE ST-HIPPOLYTE.

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 also 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 Lafontaine 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).

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 to support the implant, and are in good general health. Dr Lafontaine can perform a comprehensive assessment, which may include X-rays or 3D CBCT imaging, to evaluate your suitability. Dr Lafontaine can discuss implants as an option and refer you to an implant specialist (like a Periodontist or Oral Surgeon) if appropriate.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr Lafontaine at CENTRE DENTAIRE ST-HIPPOLYTE?

Your first visit with Dr Lafontaine will typically involve a comprehensive dental examination. This includes a 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 Lafontaine will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if any care is needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

What services does a General Dentist (Dentiste) like Dr Lafontaine typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr Lafontaine is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services including: 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 cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

Does CENTRE DENTAIRE ST-HIPPOLYTE offer direct billing to dental insurance companies (assignment of benefits)?

While we do not offer direct billing to insurance companies at this time (meaning payment in full is due at the time of service), we will provide you with all the necessary standardized dental claim forms and detailed official receipts. You can then easily submit these to your dental insurance provider for prompt reimbursement according to your policy terms and coverage. Our administrative team is happy to assist you with understanding the forms if needed.

CENTRE DENTAIRE ST-HIPPOLYTE
202-780 Ch. Des Hauteurs
Saint-Hippolyte, QC, J8A 1H1

Phone: (450) 224-8241

Dr. France Lafontaine is a licensed Dentiste in QC, regulated by The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ) under the Code des professions & Loi sur les dentistes (Québec).

License Number: 94790

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ).

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