Dr. James David Bel – Dentist | Thunder Bay, ON

Dr. James David Bel is a Endodontist. Practicing at N/A in Thunder Bay, ON, Dr. Bel is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Bel 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 Endodontics, Dr. Bel is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries of the dental pulp (nerve) and periradicular tissues (tissues surrounding the root of a tooth). Primary services include complex root canal therapy, retreatment of previous root canals, endodontic surgery (apicoectomy), and management of traumatic dental injuries. Dr. Bel 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 N/A.

Dr. James David Bel earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 1986. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Endodontist at the Boston University in 1989. With over 39 years of practice since 1986, Dr. Bel maintains a steadfast commitment to ongoing continuing education, ensuring they provide patients with the most up-to-date and effective dental care. This dedication to professional development reflects Dr. Bel's ongoing pursuit of excellence in the field of Endodontics.

Key aspects of Dr. Bel's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Bel provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Endodontics, Dr. James David Bel addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Abscessed Tooth Endo

• Acute or Chronic Dental Abscess of Endodontic Origin: Localized swelling, pain, and pus formation associated with a non-vital (dead) or previously root-canal-treated tooth, indicating an infection at the root tip that requires endodontic treatment or retreatment to resolve.

Tooth Trauma Endo

• Traumatic Injury to Teeth Involving Pulp Exposure or Root Damage: Dental injuries sustained from accidents (e.g., falls, sports impacts, collisions) resulting in complicated crown fractures (exposing the pulp), root fractures, significant tooth displacement (luxations), or complete avulsion (knocked-out tooth) that require specialist endodontic assessment and complex treatment to manage pulpal and periradicular consequences.

Pulpal Root Canal Issues

• Severe Tooth Pain, Dental Abscess, or Suspected Need for Root Canal Therapy: Addressing conditions affecting the inner vital tissues of the tooth that typically necessitate endodontic intervention to eliminate infection and preserve the tooth.

Complex Root Canal Needs

• Need for Complex Root Canal Retreatment or Endodontic Surgery (Apicoectomy): Addressing complex endodontic problems that necessitate specialized techniques such as microscopic endodontics, advanced irrigation protocols, or surgical approaches to achieve a favorable outcome and save the tooth.

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

• Complex Root Canal Therapy & Retreatment (Specialist Level): Expertise in handling complex endodontic situations beyond the scope of general practice.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging: Advanced 3D dental imaging for precise diagnostics in implant placement, orthodontics, endodontics, or oral surgery cases.
• Endodontic Microsurgery (Apicoectomy): Surgical endodontic procedures, such as apicoectomy (root-end resection and filling), performed when conventional root canal therapy is not sufficient to resolve infection or inflammation around the tooth root tip.
• Diagnosis of Complex Orofacial Pain of Endodontic Origin: Specialized diagnostic skills to differentiate odontogenic (tooth-related) pain from non-odontogenic orofacial pain, particularly when symptoms are atypical or difficult to localize.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Endodontics, Dr. Bel is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At N/A, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• For patients where their smile not looking as bright, white, or vibrant as it used to, prompting interest in whitening is a primary concern, Dr. Bel focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in feeling significantly more relaxed and calm during dental visits due to effective anxiety management strategies or sedation. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully their smile being ready for any impromptu photo opportunity or social media post.
• Understanding the frustration a dental problem that was causing significant difficulty or pain when they tried to eat certain types of foods can cause, Dr. Bel tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their child overcoming dental anxiety and successfully completing needed dental treatment, allowing for renewed participation in activities like their child participating happily in school photos and social activities.
• Managing wondering if their child's teeth were erupting in the correct sequence and alignment for their age effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Bel and the dental team. The clear aim is always achieving their dream smile through a well-planned and executed smile makeover, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying confidently taking on speaking roles or performances without concern for their dental appearance or speech clarity and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Bel when they first notice their jaw making clicking, popping, or grating sounds when they opened their mouth wide or chewed. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve finding a dental team that understands and effectively manages their dental nervousness, enabling them to once again enjoy their child focusing better at school, free from the distraction of dental issues without hesitation.

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

Dr. Bel's practice, which is N/A, is situated in the Port Arthur North (Current River, Centennial Park area) neighborhood of Thunder Bay. The clinic is conveniently located near Prince Arthur's Landing and is accessible via Thunder Bay Transit. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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 provided by employers), or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). Programs like Healthy Smiles Ontario provide coverage for eligible children. 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 regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at N/A.

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. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Bel identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider if unsure.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Bel 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. Bel 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. Bel for a check-up and cleaning?

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Bel 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 more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months) while others might have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Bel's specific recommendations.

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

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

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, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Bel 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).

N/A
167 N Cumberland St
Thunder Bay, ON, P7A 4M6

Phone: (807) 345-3636

Dr. James David Bel is a licensed Endodontist 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: 10689

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=10689

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