Dr. Julie Cai – Dentist | Westmount, QC

Dr. Julie Cai is a Dentiste. Practicing at MONTREAL CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL DENTAL CLINIC in Westmount, QC, Dr Cai is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr Cai is licensed by The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in QC. Dr Cai 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 Cai 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 MONTREAL CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL DENTAL CLINIC.

Dr. Julie Cai earned a Dental Degree. Dr Cai brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr Cai is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment to professional development ensures that Dr Cai remains at the forefront of advancements in dentistry, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and innovative treatments available. Dr Cai's dedication to patient care extends beyond technical skills; it includes a commitment to creating a comfortable and supportive environment where patients feel understood and respected.

Key aspects of Dr Cai's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr Cai provides consultations in English.

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

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Tooth decay in infants and young children, often affecting the upper front teeth, requiring early intervention and preventative strategies.

Dental Pain Emergency

• 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): Emergency management of traumatic dental injuries to maximize the chances of successful reimplantation or repair.
• 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.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.
• 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 Cai. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• 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.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Comprehensive discussions to ensure you are fully informed and comfortable with your proposed dental treatment.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Providing custom-made night guards (occlusal splints) to protect teeth from the effects of nocturnal bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching).
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.
• 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 Cai. 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. Julie Cai adhere to scope of practice for Dentistes in QC and standards of The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ).

At MONTREAL CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL DENTAL CLINIC, 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 Cai frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Are you struggling with needing a completely new set of dentures because their old ones were very worn out, ill-fitting, and no longer functional? Dr Cai partners with patients to target their previously loose tooth feeling stable and secure after treatment, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as enjoying the full taste of food without a metallic taste from old fillings or bad breath a much more achievable reality.
• If a persistent white patch (leukoplakia) or red patch (erythroplakia) in their mouth or on their tongue that wouldn't go away and needed urgent assessment is preventing you from fully enjoying their smile being a positive asset in their personal and professional life or causing discomfort, Dr Cai offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve their gums appearing consistently healthy, pink, and firm, without any signs of puffiness or inflammation through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr Cai when they first notice having chipped a tooth unexpectedly while eating something hard. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve feeling refreshed and clean after a thorough professional dental cleaning and check-up, enabling them to once again enjoy passing on good oral hygiene habits and a positive attitude towards dental care to their children without hesitation.
• Patients experiencing noticing a concerning dark spot on one of their teeth, possibly a cavity often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr Cai's practice, a key objective is achieving their dream smile through a well-planned and executed smile makeover, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in singing their favorite songs with gusto, whether in a choir or just for fun.

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

MONTREAL CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL DENTAL CLINIC is situated in a central location within the Westmount neighborhood of Westmount, QC. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr Cai at MONTREAL CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL DENTAL CLINIC?

At your initial appointment, Dr Cai and the team at MONTREAL CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL DENTAL CLINIC 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 Cai will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

What are dental implants, and how do I know if I'm a suitable candidate?

Dental implants are small, medical-grade titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They provide a strong foundation for fixed (crowns, bridges) or removable replacement teeth (dentures). Good candidates generally have healthy gums and adequate jawbone density to support the implant, and are in good general health. Dr Cai can perform a comprehensive assessment, which may include X-rays or 3D CBCT imaging, to evaluate your suitability. Dr Cai can discuss implants as an option and refer you to an implant specialist (like a Periodontist or Oral Surgeon) if appropriate.

What services does a General Dentist (Dentiste) like Dr Cai typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr Cai is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services including: 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). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact MONTREAL CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL DENTAL CLINIC directly to arrange their visit with Dr Cai.

I experience jaw pain, clicking, and headaches. Can Dr Cai help with TMJ/TMD issues?

Dr Cai can perform an initial assessment of your jaw pain and related symptoms. Depending on the findings and complexity, they may offer some conservative management advice or provide a referral to a dentist or specialist with advanced training in TMJ disorders if more specialized care is indicated.

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

In QC, provincial health plans (like RAMQ) 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 or government assistance programs for eligible groups. Always check your private dental insurance and verify any potential public coverage before treatment at MONTREAL CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL DENTAL CLINIC.

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. Dr Cai 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).

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

Generally, every 6 months for most patients for preventative care. Dr Cai will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions. Follow Dr Cai's specific recommendation.

MONTREAL CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL DENTAL CLINIC
1040 Av Atwater
Westmount, QC, H3Z 1X3

Phone: (514) 412-4479

Dr. Julie Cai 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: 24719

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 Cai 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.