Dr. Jacob Christopher Balkos – Dentist | Barrie, ON

Dr. Jacob Christopher Balkos is a Pediatric Dentist. Practicing at Georgian Mall Dental Group in Barrie, ON, Dr. Balkos is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Balkos 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. As a certified specialist in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Balkos provides comprehensive and specialized preventative and therapeutic oral health care exclusively for infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special health care needs. This includes behavior guidance, sedation, and treatment of early childhood caries and developmental dental issues. Dr. Balkos 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 Georgian Mall Dental Group.

Dr. Jacob Christopher Balkos earned a Dental Degree from Indiana University-Purdue University At Indianapolis, graduating in 2017. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Paediatric Dentist at the University of Texas in 2019. Dr. Balkos brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Additionally, this specialist holds certifications/authorizations for: Oral Moderate Sedation. Dr. Balkos is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Balkos's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Balkos provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Jacob Christopher Balkos addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

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: Seeking a dental provider experienced in managing the oral health of children with complex medical histories.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.

Dental Trauma Children

• Traumatic Injuries to Primary or Young Permanent Teeth in Children: Dental injuries in children resulting from falls, sports, or other accidents, leading to chipped, fractured, dislodged (luxated), or knocked-out (avulsed) primary or young permanent teeth, requiring prompt assessment and appropriate emergency and follow-up care by a dentist, ideally a pediatric specialist for complex cases.

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

• Comprehensive Oral Health Care for Infants, Children & Adolescents: Tailored dental services to meet the unique needs of growing smiles, from first tooth to teenage years.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Low-radiation digital radiographs to detect cavities between teeth, assess bone levels, view tooth roots, and identify other hidden dental issues.
• Behavior Guidance & Management for Pediatric Patients: Utilizing specialized techniques (tell-show-do, positive reinforcement, distraction) to help children feel comfortable and cooperative during dental visits.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Comprehensive advice on preventing gum inflammation and infection for lifelong oral health and overall well-being.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Proactive examinations as part of your check-up to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Balkos is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Georgian Mall Dental Group, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• With Dr. Balkos's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing needing a substantial amount of dental work done and feeling quite overwhelmed by the prospect is focused on achieving feeling well-equipped with advice on how to care for their toddler's developing teeth. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to enjoying the peace of mind that comes with a healthy, well-maintained mouth without dental concerns.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing wanting to explore options to replace a missing tooth with a permanent solution like a dental implant, involves working systematically towards transitioning from a removable partial denture to a more permanent and comfortable tooth replacement option. Dr. Balkos expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including no longer needing to cut food into tiny pieces or avoid certain textures due to dental problems.
• Dr. Balkos's comprehensive care for a persistent white patch (leukoplakia) or red patch (erythroplakia) in their mouth or on their tongue that wouldn't go away and needed urgent assessment is meticulously designed to result in achieving straighter teeth and an improved bite with discreet clear aligner therapy. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as enjoying romantic moments without self-consciousness about their breath or smile without dental worries.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed waking up frequently with a sore jaw, facial muscle tenderness, or tension headaches, possibly from teeth grinding with Dr. Balkos's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their previously loose tooth feeling stable and secure after treatment and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy feeling good about their overall appearance and the positive first impression their smile makes once more.

Your specialized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Balkos, will be meticulously designed to address your unique concerns and help you reach your specific objectives within their area of expertise. Dr. Balkos is committed to providing the highest standard of specialized care, tailored to your individual needs.

Dr. Balkos's practice, Georgian Mall Dental Group, is situated in the Downtown Barrie, East Bayfield neighborhood of Barrie. The clinic is conveniently located near Georgian College and is accessible via Barrie Transit. Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see a dental specialist (e.g., Orthodontist, Periodontist)?

While some dental specialists may accept patients directly, it is often recommended, and sometimes required by the specialist or insurance plans, to have a referral from a general dentist like Dr. Balkos. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Balkos identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. If unsure, check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider.

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. Balkos 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).

How does Dr. Balkos as a Pediatric Dentist manage children with dental anxiety or special healthcare needs?

Dr. Balkos utilizes specialized training in behavior guidance techniques (tell-show-do, positive reinforcement, distraction) and creates a child-friendly environment. Their experience extends to patients with various needs. Options like nitrous oxide or referral for deeper sedation/general anesthesia may be considered depending on the individual case and Dr. Balkos's practice capabilities or referral network. A patient and gentle approach is always emphasized.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Balkos at Georgian Mall Dental Group?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Balkos and the team at Georgian Mall Dental Group 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. Balkos 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. Balkos for a check-up and cleaning?

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Balkos will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions (e.g., some 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. Balkos's specific recommendation is essential.

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

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

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). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

Georgian Mall Dental Group
509 Bayfield St #N47A
Barrie, ON, L4M 4Z8

Phone: (705) 252-7772

Dr. Jacob Christopher Balkos is a licensed Pediatric 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: 501324

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=501324

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