Dr. Howard Tong – Dentist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Howard Tong is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at Kipling Dental Centre in Toronto, ON, Dr. Tong is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Tong 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. Tong 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. Tong 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. Tong 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 Kipling Dental Centre.

Dr. Howard Tong earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 2000. With over 24 years of practice since 2001, Dr. Tong 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: N/A. Dr. Tong is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

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

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

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.

Gum Disease Initial

• 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.
• 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.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.

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

• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Guidance on the best tools and methods for cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly to prevent dental problems.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Ensuring you fully understand your dental care plan and have all your questions answered before proceeding with any treatment, fostering informed consent.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Addressing common issues with loose, uncomfortable, or damaged dentures to restore proper fit and patient satisfaction.
• Porcelain Veneers & Lumineers: Application of ultra-thin, custom-made porcelain shells (veneers or minimal-prep Lumineers) bonded to the front surface of teeth to dramatically improve their shape, size, length, color, or to correct minor misalignments, chips, and gaps.
• 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.

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

At Kipling Dental Centre, 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. Tong frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Many people seek Dr. Tong's professional help and expertise when dealing with a need for a professional dental opinion on a growth, unusual spot, or texture change in their mouth that they discovered. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently receiving clear dental clearance before a major medical procedure, ensuring their overall health is prioritized, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to feeling the smooth, clean surfaces of their teeth after a professional cleaning and polishing.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for their child frequently complaining of a sore tooth or dental discomfort at Dr. Tong's practice is consistently achieving the rough or sharp edge on their tooth being smoothed out, eliminating irritation. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as enjoying a cold ice cream or a hot cup of coffee without wincing from tooth sensitivity.
• If ongoing concerns about bad breath that they believed might be related to a hidden dental infection or persistent gum problem is preventing you from fully enjoying showing off a brighter, more youthful smile after cosmetic treatments or causing discomfort, Dr. Tong offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve finally addressing a long-standing dental problem, leading to improved oral health and comfort through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Tong about recognizing the need for a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) because it had been a significant time since their last professional hygiene visit is to attain a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like kissing their loved ones with confidence and without oral discomfort.

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

Dr. Tong's practice, Kipling Dental Centre, is situated in the Northwest Etobicoke (West Humber - Clairville) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Little Italy and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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 only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Tong 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 should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Tong at Kipling Dental Centre?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Tong and the team at Kipling Dental Centre 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. Tong will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

Yes, Dr. Tong understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, Kipling Dental Centre may offer various sedation options. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Tong 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. Tong are crucial for early detection and effective treatment.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Tong will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions. Some patients may need visits every 3-4 months, while others might have slightly longer intervals. Following Dr. Tong's specific recommendation is crucial.

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

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

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 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 the details of your private dental insurance and verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for before starting treatment.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Tong 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.

Kipling Dental Centre
2141 Kipling Ave #204
Toronto, ON, M9W 4K8

Phone: (416) 743-0351

Dr. Howard Tong 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: 53513

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=53513

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