Dr. James Franklyn Hickman

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. James Franklyn Hickman addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Orthodontic Assessment Needs

• Bite Problems (Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite, Open Bite, Deep Bite): Addressing functional and aesthetic concerns related to how the teeth and jaws fit together, aiming for an optimal, stable, and healthy bite.
• Concerns about Crooked, Crowded, Gapped, or Protruding Teeth: Addressing issues of tooth malposition, such as crowding that makes cleaning difficult, or spacing that affects appearance, for a healthier and more attractive smile.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Dental situations where standard 2D X-rays (bitewings, panoramic) are insufficient and a 3D Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan is required for accurate diagnosis, assessment of anatomical complexities, or detailed planning of complex treatments like implants, orthodontics, or endodontics.

Jaw Alignment Growth Concerns

• Jaw Growth Discrepancies & Skeletal Imbalances in Growing Patients: Addressing underlying skeletal contributions to malocclusion through growth modification therapies or planning for future surgical-orthodontic correction when growth is complete.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.
• 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.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.

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

• Comprehensive Orthodontic Diagnosis & Treatment Planning: Specialist evaluation of bite problems, teeth alignment, and jaw relationships using clinical exams, dental models, photographs, and advanced imaging (X-rays, CBCT).
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.
• Clear Aligner Therapy (e.g., Invisalign®, Spark™): Aesthetic and comfortable alternative to traditional braces for correcting various alignment and bite issues.
• 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.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Hickman is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Hickman Specialist Group Dental, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• If a persistent and unexplained bad taste in their mouth, even after brushing is preventing you from fully enjoying their child actively participating in preventative dental care and understanding its importance or causing discomfort, Dr. Hickman offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve having a custom-fitted sports mouthguard to protect their smile during athletic activities through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing wanting to know if professional teeth whitening procedures would be safe and effective for their specific situation, involves working systematically towards a noticeable improvement or elimination of persistent bad taste in their mouth. Dr. Hickman expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including no longer experiencing the embarrassment or discomfort of ill-fitting or noticeable dental work.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed an urgent need to replace a recently lost front tooth before other teeth started to shift or their appearance was significantly affected with Dr. Hickman'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 playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort once more.
• Managing feeling self-conscious about the stained or yellowish appearance of their teeth effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Hickman and the dental team. The clear aim is always their old, uncomfortable dental bridge being replaced with a well-fitting and aesthetic new one, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying maintaining a professional appearance that boosts their career prospects and their daily routines without dental hindrance.

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

Hickman Specialist Group Dental is situated in the Elmvale Acres, Hawthorne Meadows, Billings Bridge neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Billings Bridge Shopping Centre and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). 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 through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). Check your eligibility for public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at Hickman Specialist Group Dental.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Hickman at Hickman Specialist Group Dental?

Your first visit with Dr. Hickman will typically involve a comprehensive dental examination. This includes a review of your medical and dental history, a thorough check of your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues (including an oral cancer screening), and any necessary X-rays. Dr. Hickman will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if any care is needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

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's 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. Hickman 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 if unsure.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Hickman Specialist Group Dental directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Hickman.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Hickman 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). Follow Dr. Hickman's specific recommendation.

Hickman Specialist Group Dental
1379 Bank St
Ottawa, ON, K1H 8N3

Phone: (613) 731-1961

Dr. James Franklyn Hickman is a licensed Orthodontist 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: 7448

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=7448

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