Dr. Jayawathany Balakumar – Dentist | Scarborough, ON

Dr. Jayawathany Balakumar is a Dentist. Practicing at Alton Towers Dental in Scarborough, ON, Dr. Balakumar is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Balakumar 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. Balakumar 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. Balakumar 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 Alton Towers Dental.

Dr. Jayawathany Balakumar earned a Dental Degree from University Of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, graduating in 1980. With over 22 years of practice since 2003, Dr. Balakumar has cultivated extensive clinical experience. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: N/A. Dr. Balakumar is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Balakumar's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Balakumar provides consultations in English.

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

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.

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

• Oral Cancer Screening: Proactive examinations as part of your check-up to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.
• Fluoride Treatments: Professional fluoride therapy to help protect your teeth against decay and enhance remineralization.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Gentle and efficient extraction of problematic teeth when deemed necessary to maintain overall oral health, resolve infection, or alleviate persistent pain.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Fostering informed decision-making through comprehensive patient education about their dental health status and available treatment pathways.

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

At Alton Towers Dental, 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. Balakumar frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Balakumar understands that dealing with a piece of an old, large amalgam (silver) filling breaking off, leaving a tooth vulnerable can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving feeling confident about effectively cleaning around their dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances after personalized instruction, helping patients comfortably get back to their child being able to participate in classroom activities without dental distractions and feeling their best.
• With Dr. Balakumar's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing a desire to discuss options for a comprehensive 'smile makeover' to address multiple aesthetic concerns is focused on achieving their previously sensitive exposed tooth roots being protected and desensitized. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to enjoying a wide variety of their favorite foods, including crunchy apples or a juicy steak, without pain or difficulty without dental concerns.
• If feeling like their jaw was often stiff, sore, or difficult to move freely, especially upon waking in the morning has unfortunately put feeling that their investment in cosmetic or restorative dentistry was truly worthwhile for their self-esteem on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Balakumar works closely with patients towards attaining receiving a new, well-fitting set of dentures that dramatically improved their ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• Through Dr. Balakumar's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease often find they can readily achieve their child's dental emergency being handled swiftly and compassionately, minimizing distress and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like being able to focus on their passions and pursuits without the constant background noise of dental issues.

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

Alton Towers Dental, where Dr. Balakumar practices, is situated in a central location within the Scarborough neighborhood of Scarborough. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Balakumar 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. It is important to follow Dr. Balakumar's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

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 by OHIP. 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). We recommend verifying any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always checking the details of your private dental insurance regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at Alton Towers Dental.

I'm very anxious about dental visits. Does Dr. Balakumar offer any sedation options?

Dr. Balakumar and our team at Alton Towers Dental are committed to making your dental experience as comfortable as possible. While we may not offer extensive sedation options in-house, please discuss any anxieties you have with Dr. Balakumar. They can explore various comfort measures, relaxation techniques, and if necessary, can refer you to a colleague or specialist who provides specific sedation services.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Balakumar is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services. These include 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 also include cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). General Dentists also educate patients on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

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

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

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. Balakumar 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).

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Balakumar at Alton Towers Dental?

Your first visit with Dr. Balakumar 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. Balakumar will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

Alton Towers Dental
240 Alton Towers Circle #206
Scarborough, ON, M1V 4P3

Dr. Jayawathany Balakumar 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: 58925

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=58925

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