Dr. Jean Larocque

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

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): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.

Common Dental Issues

• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.

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.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.

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: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.

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

• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Saving natural teeth from extraction by treating the inner pulp tissue, commonly for straightforward root canal procedures on teeth with predictable anatomy.
• Fluoride Treatments: Professional fluoride therapy to help protect your teeth against decay and enhance remineralization.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Guidance on the best tools and methods for cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly to prevent dental problems.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr Larocque. 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. Jean Larocque adhere to scope of practice for Dentistes in QC and standards of The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ).

At CLINIQUE DENTAIRE ST-PIERRE, 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 Larocque frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr Larocque understands that dealing with an old dental crown that needed to be replaced because it was visibly worn, chipped, poorly fitting, or had decay underneath can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving their child's toothache being resolved, and the tooth saved with appropriate treatment, helping patients comfortably get back to their ability to savor the flavors of food being enhanced due to a healthy mouth and feeling their best.
• Patients frequently come to Dr Larocque with concerns about a new or changing bump, swelling, or unusual growth on their gums or oral tissues that they were worried about. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve their breath feeling consistently fresh and clean due to improved oral health, making a positive and lasting return to their child participating happily in school photos and social activities not just possible, but highly feasible.
• With Dr Larocque's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing a child in their care who had special healthcare needs (physical, cognitive, or behavioral) and required a particularly patient, understanding, and accommodating dental provider is focused on achieving experiencing a significant reduction or complete resolution of a dull, aching pain in their jaw joint area. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to their smile reflecting their inner happiness and confidence without dental concerns.
• For those affected by experiencing a persistently dry mouth (xerostomia) feeling, making it uncomfortable to speak or swallow, Dr Larocque provides solutions that lead to their jaw feeling less stiff and more mobile after TMJ therapy or a custom oral appliance. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to simply relaxing and not having dental pain or problems on their mind constantly.

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

CLINIQUE DENTAIRE ST-PIERRE, where Dr Larocque practices, is situated in a central location within the Val-d'Or neighborhood of Val-d'Or. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. 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 Larocque at CLINIQUE DENTAIRE ST-PIERRE?

Your first visit with Dr Larocque 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 Larocque 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.

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

For most adults and children, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr Larocque 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 health might have slightly longer intervals. It is important to follow Dr Larocque's specific recommendation for your 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 always used. 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 Larocque 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).

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

Dr Larocque and our team at CLINIQUE DENTAIRE ST-PIERRE 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 Larocque. 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 (Dentiste) like Dr Larocque typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr Larocque 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, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). Dr Larocque also provides education on oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists for more complex needs.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

In Quebec, provincial health plans like RAMQ 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 crucial to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment at CLINIQUE DENTAIRE ST-PIERRE.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact CLINIQUE DENTAIRE ST-PIERRE directly to arrange their visit with Dr Larocque.

CLINIQUE DENTAIRE ST-PIERRE
1019 Boul. Des Pins
Val-d'Or, QC, J9P 4T2

Phone: (819) 825-2204

Dr. Jean Larocque is a licensed Dentiste in QC, regulated by The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ) under the Code des professions & Loi sur les dentistes (Québec).

License Number: 03482

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ).

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