Dr. Ingrid Johanna Schaeffer – Dentist | Waterdown, ON

Dr. Ingrid Johanna Schaeffer is a Dentist. Practicing at Aldente Dentistry in Waterdown, ON, Dr. Schaeffer is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Schaeffer 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. Schaeffer 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. Schaeffer 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 Aldente Dentistry.

Dr. Ingrid Johanna Schaeffer earned a Dental Degree from University Of Western Ontario, graduating in 2002. With over 23 years of practice since 2002, Dr. Schaeffer has cultivated a wealth of clinical experience. Dr. Schaeffer is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Schaeffer's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Schaeffer provides consultations in English.

Dr. Ingrid Johanna Schaeffer 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

• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.

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): 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.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.
• 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. Schaeffer. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): Extraction of teeth that are not straightforward to remove due to their position, root morphology, or condition, performed within the scope of general dental practice and comfort level.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Treatment involving the removal of infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, thorough cleaning and shaping of the root canal system, and sealing it to prevent reinfection, often for less complex endodontic cases.
• 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.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Providing guidance on how dietary choices impact oral health, including advice on reducing sugary food/drink intake and promoting tooth-friendly nutrition.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.

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

At Aldente Dentistry, 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. Schaeffer frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Managing one of their teeth starting to feel a bit loose or wobbly effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Schaeffer and the dental team. The clear aim is always their broken amalgam filling being safely removed and replaced with a modern restoration, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying biting into sandwiches or other challenging foods with complete confidence and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• When having chipped a tooth unexpectedly while eating something hard begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Schaeffer helps patients strive for their receding gums being stabilized or treated, protecting their tooth roots. This makes participating in activities such as feeling that their smile truly reflects their personality and inner confidence. a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Overcoming or effectively managing experiencing a persistently dry mouth (xerostomia) feeling, making it uncomfortable to speak or swallow is a common journey for patients under Dr. Schaeffer's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling their dentures no longer causing sore spots, allowing them to eat and speak with ease, so that daily routines and pleasures like their smile being ready for any impromptu photo opportunity or social media post become straightforward again.
• For individuals troubled by a tooth getting accidentally knocked out or avulsed during a sports game or accident, Dr. Schaeffer's approach is focused on delivering feeling well-equipped with advice on how to care for their toddler's developing teeth. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like maintaining fresh breath, which improves their social and professional interactions with a healthier smile.

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

Aldente Dentistry, where Dr. Schaeffer practices, is situated in a central location within the Waterdown neighborhood of Waterdown. 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.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Schaeffer at Aldente Dentistry?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Schaeffer and the team at Aldente Dentistry 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. Schaeffer 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. Schaeffer for a check-up and cleaning?

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Schaeffer 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. For example, some patients may need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals. Following Dr. Schaeffer's specific recommendation is key to maintaining optimal oral health.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Aldente Dentistry directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Schaeffer.

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 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 provided by employers), or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families through Healthy Smiles Ontario). 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 before starting treatment.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Schaeffer is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages. They offer a wide range of services, including 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 offer cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. General Dentists also provide education on oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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. Schaeffer 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).

Aldente Dentistry
B10-115 Hamilton St N
Waterdown, ON, L8B 1A8

Phone: (905) 689-0733

Dr. Ingrid Johanna Schaeffer 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: 55718

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=55718

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