Dr. Garnet C. Shawn Ferguson – Dentist | North Bay, ON

Dr. Garnet C. Shawn Ferguson is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at N/A in North Bay, ON, Dr. Ferguson is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Ferguson 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. Ferguson 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. Ferguson 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. Garnet C. Shawn Ferguson earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 1986. With over 39 years of practice since 1986, Dr. Ferguson 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. Ferguson is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Ferguson remains at the forefront of advancements in dental technology and techniques, consistently striving to deliver the highest standard of care to their patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Ferguson's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Ferguson provides consultations in English.

Dr. Garnet C. Shawn Ferguson provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Persistent unpleasant breath odor often linked to oral hygiene issues, gum disease, dry mouth, or other dental conditions.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Addressing broken or cracked teeth to restore their form, function, and prevent infection.

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 Anxiety Phobia

• Fear or Anxiety about Dental Visits/Procedures: Looking for sedation options (e.g., nitrous oxide, oral sedation, IV sedation) or other strategies to manage anxiety during dental care.
• History of Traumatic Dental Experiences: Needing a dentist who can help overcome fear stemming from prior difficult experiences and rebuild trust.

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.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Ferguson. 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): A highly effective and predictable sedation technique for achieving profound relaxation and anxiety control during various dental treatments, ensuring patient comfort and cooperation.
• Smile Makeovers (Comprehensive Cosmetic Treatment Planning): Customized combination of various advanced cosmetic treatments designed to address all aspects of your smile's appearance, from tooth color and shape to alignment and gum display.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Performing root canal therapy on infected or irreversibly inflamed tooth pulp (nerve), typically for anterior (front) teeth and premolars in uncomplicated cases, to save the natural tooth from extraction and relieve pain or infection.
• Fluoride Treatments: Application of topical fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel, prevent demineralization, and reduce the risk of cavities, especially for children and at-risk adults.
• Dental Sealants: A simple and effective preventative measure to reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Ferguson. 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. Garnet C. Shawn Ferguson 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. Ferguson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Understanding the frustration their child being referred to a dental specialist for specific or complex treatment needs by their school or another health provider can cause, Dr. Ferguson tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their child overcoming dental anxiety and successfully completing needed dental treatment, allowing for renewed participation in activities like enjoying the sensation of a clean, healthy mouth after every meal and hygiene routine.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Ferguson with concerns about an old silver amalgam filling looking dark, unsightly, or potentially failing. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve their problematic wisdom tooth being removed, alleviating pain and preventing future issues, making a positive and lasting return to knowing their teeth are well-protected from decay and damage not just possible, but highly feasible.
• When their breath not feeling consistently fresh or clean even immediately after brushing and flossing starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to their overall facial aesthetics being enhanced by well-planned dental and/or facial esthetic treatments, Dr. Ferguson and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their child with special healthcare needs successfully and calmly completing necessary dental treatment in a supportive environment and a return to comfort and confidence.
• Dr. Ferguson's comprehensive care for a desire to explore more permanent or stable options for replacing all of their missing teeth effectively is meticulously designed to result in a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as no longer having to worry about a loose crown or bridge when they are out without dental worries.

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

Dr. Ferguson's practice, which is N/A, is situated in the Downtown North Bay, Central neighborhood of North Bay. The clinic is conveniently located near Capitol Centre (Theatre) and is accessible via North Bay Transit. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

Yes, Dr. Ferguson 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. Ferguson during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

What are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?

Be aware of gums that bleed easily during oral hygiene, appear red or puffy, or feel sore, as these are common indicators of gingivitis. Persistent bad taste or bad breath can also be a sign. More advanced gum disease (periodontitis) may involve gums pulling away from teeth, noticeable tooth mobility, or discomfort when chewing. Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Ferguson are crucial for early detection and effective treatment.

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

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. Ferguson.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Ferguson and the team at N/A will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Ferguson will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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 used to further minimize exposure. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Ferguson 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 ON, 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). Always check your private dental insurance details and verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for before starting treatment.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Ferguson 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 if offered). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

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

Generally, every 6 months is recommended for most patients for preventative care. Dr. Ferguson will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions. For example, some may need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease, while others might have slightly longer intervals. Follow Dr. Ferguson's specific recommendation.

N/A
909 Algonquin Ave
North Bay, ON, P1B 4X8

Phone: (705) 472-3310

Dr. Garnet C. Shawn Ferguson 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: 10712

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=10712

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