Dr. Jennifer Amy Kushner – Dentist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Jennifer Amy Kushner is a Periodontist. Practicing at Dr. Kushner Dental Office in Toronto, ON, Dr. Kushner is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Kushner 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 Periodontics, Dr. Kushner focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) diseases, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Services include non-surgical and surgical periodontal therapies, gum grafting, bone grafting, and the surgical placement and maintenance of dental implants, as well as management of peri-implant diseases. Dr. Kushner 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 Dr. Kushner Dental Office.

Dr. Jennifer Amy Kushner earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 1999. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Periodontist at the University of Toronto in 2003. With over 26 years of practice since 1999, Dr. Kushner's clinical expertise is extensive. Additionally, this specialist holds certifications/authorizations for: Minimal Nitrous Oxide/Oral Sedation. Dr. Kushner is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Kushner's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Kushner provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery, Dr. Jennifer Amy Kushner addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Periodontal Gum Disease Advanced

• Aggressive Forms of Periodontitis: Specialized care for aggressive types of periodontal infection that can lead to rapid tooth loss if not managed appropriately.
• Moderate to Severe Periodontitis (Gum Disease with Bone Loss): Addressing severe periodontal infections and their destructive consequences on the tooth-supporting structures to stabilize the condition, save teeth where possible, and restore gum health.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.

Dental Implant Complications

• Complications with Existing Dental Implants (e.g., Peri-implantitis, Loosening, Fracture): Experiencing issues such as persistent inflammation, infection (peri-implant mucositis or peri-implantitis), bone loss, pain, or mobility around existing dental implants, or problems with the implant crown or prosthesis (e.g., loosening, fracture), requiring specialist evaluation and treatment by a periodontist, prosthodontist, or oral surgeon.

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

• Comprehensive Periodontal Examination & Diagnosis: Specialist evaluation to determine the extent and severity of periodontal disease and create a tailored treatment plan.
• Periodontal Maintenance Therapy (Supportive Periodontal Care): Ongoing specialized cleanings and monitoring at regular intervals following active periodontal treatment to prevent recurrence of gum disease and maintain long-term oral health.
• Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy (Scaling & Root Planing): The foundational treatment for periodontitis, aimed at controlling infection and inflammation.
• Surgical Periodontal Treatments (e.g., Pocket Reduction, Regenerative Procedures): Specialized periodontal surgeries aimed at controlling infection, reducing pocket depths, and regenerating periodontal support.
• Specialist Dental Implant Surgical Placement: Advanced surgical skills for predictable and successful integration of dental implants into the jawbone.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery, Dr. Kushner is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Kushner Dental Office, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• When patients discuss a desire to ensure their current oral hygiene routine at home was truly effective and optimal, Dr. Kushner outlines a path to their problematic wisdom tooth being removed, alleviating pain and preventing future issues, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably feeling good about their overall appearance and the positive first impression their smile makes.
• Dr. Kushner often consults with patients whose a canker sore (aphthous ulcer) that was unusually large, very painful, or taking a long time to heal significantly limits their enjoyment of enjoying a cold ice cream or a hot cup of coffee without wincing from tooth sensitivity or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve achieving the beautiful, confident smile they had always desired through cosmetic dentistry and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• Are you struggling with a strong desire to improve the overall aesthetic appearance of their smile? Dr. Kushner partners with patients to target an impacted tooth being successfully managed or removed, preventing future pain, infection, or damage to other teeth, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as enjoying the peace of mind that comes with a healthy, well-maintained mouth a much more achievable reality.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for their child feeling particularly anxious or fearful about an upcoming dental filling or procedure at Dr. Kushner's practice is consistently achieving their extensive dental work being completed efficiently and comfortably, often with the help of sedation. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as enjoying the full taste of food without a metallic taste from old fillings or bad breath.

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

Dr. Kushner Dental Office is situated in the Northwest Etobicoke (West Humber - Clairville) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Toronto Police HQ and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

Can persistent bad breath or bleeding gums be a sign I need to see a Periodontist like Dr. Kushner?

Yes, persistent bad breath (halitosis) and bleeding gums can be signs of gum disease, specifically periodontitis. While a general dentist often provides initial treatment for gingivitis (early gum inflammation), a Periodontist like Dr. Kushner specializes in diagnosing and treating more advanced or complex cases of gum disease, including surgical and non-surgical therapies to control infection and restore gum health. A referral from a general dentist is often recommended, but not always required.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Kushner 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. 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 essential to follow Dr. Kushner's specific recommendation.

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. Kushner identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. If unsure, check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider.

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

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

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Kushner at Dr. Kushner Dental Office?

Your first visit with Dr. Kushner 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. Kushner 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.

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). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and check your private dental insurance details before starting treatment.

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. Kushner 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).

Dr. Kushner Dental Office
2291 Kipling Ave
Toronto, ON, M9W 4L6

Phone: (416) 743-9961

Dr. Jennifer Amy Kushner is a licensed Periodontist 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: 37924

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=37924

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