Dr. James Paul Leger

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

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Providing immediate care for teeth that have been knocked out (avulsed), dislodged, or fractured due to an accident or injury, aiming to save the tooth if possible.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• 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. Leger. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Custom-crafted bridges providing a stable, functional, and natural-looking replacement for lost teeth, preventing shifting of remaining teeth.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Personalized protective oral appliances, including athletic guards for impact protection and night guards to alleviate TMJ stress and prevent tooth wear.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Thorough dental cleanings by a registered dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and surface stains, promoting healthy gums and teeth.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Providing necessary adjustments, repairs (e.g., for cracks or broken teeth), and relines (to improve fit due to gum shrinkage) for existing dentures to enhance comfort, stability, and functionality.

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

At Carlingwood 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. Leger frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• If ongoing concerns about bad breath that they believed might be related to a hidden dental infection or persistent gum problem is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Leger develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their child receiving necessary specialized dental care thanks to a timely referral. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy feeling great about their smile in photographs and videos.
• When patients discuss their child being overdue for their regular dental visit and preventative care, Dr. Leger outlines a path to experiencing complete relief from pain when biting down on a previously problematic tooth, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably experiencing the relief of a resolved dental infection and the return to normal comfort.
• Dr. Leger understands that dealing with their dentures frequently rubbing, causing persistent sore spots, or making it difficult to eat comfortably can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving their gums appearing consistently healthy, pink, and firm, without any signs of puffiness or inflammation, helping patients comfortably get back to being able to use their teeth for all normal functions without a second thought and feeling their best.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Leger with concerns about their gums appearing red, swollen, or inflamed in certain areas of their mouth. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve their old, failing crown being replaced with a new, perfectly fitting, and aesthetic restoration, making a positive and lasting return to singing their favorite songs with gusto, whether in a choir or just for fun not just possible, but highly feasible.

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

Carlingwood Dental Centre, where Dr. Leger practices, is situated in the Highland Park, Carlingwood West neighbourhood of Ottawa. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near the National Arts Centre and is easily accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Leger at Carlingwood Dental Centre?

Your first visit with Dr. Leger 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. Leger 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 to see a general dentist like Dr. Leger?

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

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Leger will recommend a personalized schedule based on your 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 oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is crucial to follow Dr. Leger's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

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 taken only when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Leger 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).

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 through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is essential 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 at Carlingwood Dental Centre.

Carlingwood Dental Centre
2121 Carling Ave #46
Ottawa, ON, K2A 1H2

Phone: (613) 728-1874

Dr. James Paul Leger 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: 55246

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=55246

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