Dr. Harsh Dineshchandra Vankawala – Dentist | Kingston, ON

Dr. Harsh Dineshchandra Vankawala is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at Dawson Dental Centre - Kingston in Kingston, ON, Dr. Vankawala is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Vankawala 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. Vankawala 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. Vankawala 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. For patient convenience, direct billing to many major dental insurance plans may be available at Dawson Dental Centre - Kingston.

Dr. Harsh Dineshchandra Vankawala earned a Dental Degree from Rajiv Gandhi University Of Health Sciences, graduating in 2012. With over 5 years of practice since 2020, Dr. Vankawala 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. Vankawala is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Vankawala's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Vankawala provides consultations in English.

Dr. Harsh Dineshchandra Vankawala provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• 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.
• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Specialized considerations for dental treatment in pediatric patients with underlying illnesses.

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): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.

Tooth Decay Cavities

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

Gag Reflex Management

• Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Seeking strategies, desensitization techniques, or appropriate sedation options to manage a strong gag reflex during necessary dental care.

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

• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Personalized protective oral appliances, including athletic guards for impact protection and night guards to alleviate TMJ stress and prevent tooth wear.
• 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.
• 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.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.

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

At Dawson Dental Centre - Kingston, 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. Vankawala frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When patients discuss their child being overdue for their regular dental visit and preventative care, Dr. Vankawala outlines a path to achieving straighter teeth and an improved bite with discreet clear aligner therapy, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet.
• Dr. Vankawala expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of an impacted tooth (often a wisdom tooth) that their previous dentist had mentioned might require monitoring or future attention. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by a noticeable improvement or elimination of persistent bad taste in their mouth, means they can happily and comfortably get back to easily maintaining their daily oral hygiene routine without experiencing bleeding or pain.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed a tooth that suddenly became extremely and uncharacteristically sensitive to cold water or air, causing sharp pain with Dr. Vankawala's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their smile looking its absolute best for an important upcoming wedding, graduation, or other special event and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy biting into sandwiches or other challenging foods with complete confidence once more.
• Patients experiencing a piece of an old, large amalgam (silver) filling breaking off, leaving a tooth vulnerable often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Vankawala's practice, a key objective is a previously 'high' or uncomfortable dental filling being perfectly adjusted, restoring a comfortable and even bite, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in feeling relief from chronic headaches that were linked to their TMJ or bruxism.

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

Dr. Vankawala's practice, Dawson Dental Centre - Kingston, is situated in the Kingscourt, Rideau Heights neighborhood of Kingston. The clinic is conveniently located near Kingston Penitentiary Tours (access) and is accessible via Kingston Transit. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Vankawala 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. Dr. Vankawala may offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options based on additional training.

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. 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. Vankawala 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, social assistance recipients). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Vankawala at Dawson Dental Centre - Kingston?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Vankawala and the team will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect a medical history form, a discussion about dental issues or goals, a detailed examination, and possibly digital X-rays. Dr. Vankawala will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

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

Does Dawson Dental Centre - Kingston 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.

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

Yes, Dr. Vankawala understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, Dawson Dental Centre - Kingston offers nitrous oxide (laughing gas) sedation. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Vankawala during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

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

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

Dawson Dental Centre - Kingston
80 Queen St #2/3
Kingston, ON, K7K 6W7

Phone: (613) 544-9223

Dr. Harsh Dineshchandra Vankawala 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: 124346

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=124346

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