Dr. Jonathan James Lok – Dentist | Hamilton, ON

Dr. Jonathan James Lok is a Dental Anesthesiologist. Practicing at Jackson Square Dental Centre in Hamilton, ON, Dr. Lok is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Lok 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 Dental Anesthesiology, Dr. Lok is dedicated to providing advanced pain and anxiety control for dental procedures. This includes the administration of various levels of sedation (moderate, deep) and general anesthesia in a dental setting, ensuring optimal patient safety, comfort, and monitoring for individuals with significant dental fear or phobia, special healthcare needs, or those undergoing extensive, complex, or traumatic dental treatments. Dr. Lok 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 Jackson Square Dental Centre.

Dr. Jonathan James Lok earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 2001. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Dental Anaesthesiologist at the New York University in 2004. With over 21 years of practice since 2004, Dr. Lok remains dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. Dr. Lok's commitment to professional development ensures patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Lok's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Lok provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Dental Anesthesiology, Dr. Jonathan James Lok addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Complex Surgical Dental Procedures Anesthesia

• Extensive, Complex, or Traumatic Dental/Oral Surgical Procedures Necessitating Deep Sedation or General Anesthesia: Requiring a higher and more profound level of anesthesia and pain control than can be achieved with conscious sedation techniques for the successful completion of significant surgical interventions.

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.

Dental Anxiety Phobia

• Fear or Anxiety about Dental Visits/Procedures: Experiencing significant dental anxiety or phobia that makes it difficult to seek or undergo necessary dental treatment.
• History of Traumatic Dental Experiences: Needing a dentist who can help overcome fear stemming from prior difficult experiences and rebuild trust.

Special Needs Dental Anesthesia

• Patients with Significant Special Healthcare Needs or Medical Compromises Requiring Anesthesia/Deep Sedation for Dental Care: Individuals with significant underlying medical conditions (e.g., severe cardiovascular or respiratory disease, uncontrolled seizure disorders, bleeding disorders), physical disabilities (e.g., severe cerebral palsy, movement disorders), or cognitive/developmental challenges (e.g., severe Autism Spectrum Disorder, profound intellectual disability) that make routine dental treatment in a standard office setting under local anesthesia challenging, unsafe, or impossible to accomplish effectively. These patients often require specialized anesthesia management by a dental anesthesiologist or OMFS in a controlled environment to facilitate safe and comprehensive dental care.

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

• Deep Sedation & General Anesthesia for Dental Procedures (Specialist Administered): Providing physician or specialist dentist-administered deep sedation or general anesthesia in a controlled setting (e.g., certified facility, hospital) for patients undergoing extensive dental surgery, or for those with profound dental phobia, special needs, or medical conditions requiring this level of anesthesia.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Educating patients on the importance of gum health and the steps they can take to maintain healthy periodontal tissues for life.
• Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC) for Dental Procedures: Providing Monitored Anesthesia Care where an anesthesia specialist continuously monitors the patient, administers sedatives and analgesics as needed, and is prepared to manage any anesthesia-related complications during dental procedures performed by another dentist.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Dental Anesthesiology, Dr. Lok is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Jackson Square Dental Centre, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Patients presenting with a child in their care who had special healthcare needs (physical, cognitive, or behavioral) and required a particularly patient, understanding, and accommodating dental provider can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their broken amalgam filling being safely removed and replaced with a modern restoration under Dr. Lok's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume feeling more outgoing and engaging in conversations more readily without the former limitations or discomfort.
• Dr. Lok expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of one of their teeth starting to feel a bit loose or wobbly. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their infected tooth being successfully saved from extraction through root canal treatment, means they can happily and comfortably get back to participating actively in sports without fear of dental injury, especially with a custom mouthguard.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed a canker sore (aphthous ulcer) that was unusually large, very painful, or taking a long time to heal with Dr. Lok's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their child receiving necessary specialized dental care thanks to a timely referral and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy confidently taking on speaking roles or performances without concern for their dental appearance or speech clarity once more.
• The journey from needing urgent treatment for an infected or abscessed tooth to avoid losing it and to relieve severe pain to wellness often involves Dr. Lok's dedicated care. The milestone is the bump or swelling on their gums being diagnosed and appropriately treated, resolving their worry, which opens the door back to activities such as their ability to enunciate words clearly for better communication.

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

Jackson Square Dental Centre, where Dr. Lok practices, is situated in the Durand, Kirkendall South neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near International Village BIA and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

Who typically needs the services of a Dental Anesthesiologist like Dr. Lok?

Patients who often benefit from a Dental Anesthesiologist like Dr. Lok include those with severe dental phobia, young children unable to cooperate, patients with special healthcare needs (medical, physical, or cognitive challenges), or those undergoing very long, complex, or traumatic dental/oral surgical procedures where deep sedation or general anesthesia is the safest and most effective option for care delivery.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Lok will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need visits every 3-4 months, while others might have slightly longer intervals. It's crucial to follow Dr. Lok's specific recommendations.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Lok at Jackson Square Dental Centre?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Lok and the team at Jackson Square Dental Centre will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Lok will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

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

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 your general dentist. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Lok 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.

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, through private dental insurance plans, or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before 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. Lok will determine the frequency based on your individual needs, adhering to guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

Jackson Square Dental Centre
2 King St W #604 Plaza Level
Hamilton, ON, L8P 1A1

Phone: (905) 524-2972

Dr. Jonathan James Lok is a licensed Dental Anesthesiologist 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: 62369

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=62369

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