Dr. Julie Dufresne-Lapointe – Dentist | Québec City, QC

Dr. Julie Dufresne-Lapointe is a Dentiste. Practicing at CLINIQUE DENTAIRE MYRIAM HÉBERT in Québec City, QC, Dr Dufresne-Lapointe is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr Dufresne-Lapointe 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 Dufresne-Lapointe 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 Dufresne-Lapointe 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 CLINIQUE DENTAIRE MYRIAM HÉBERT.

Dr. Julie Dufresne-Lapointe earned a Dental Degree. Dr Dufresne-Lapointe brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr Dufresne-Lapointe is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr Dufresne-Lapointe remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available. This dedication to professional development, combined with their clinical expertise, allows Dr Dufresne-Lapointe to provide comprehensive and high-quality dental care to their patients.

Key aspects of Dr Dufresne-Lapointe's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr Dufresne-Lapointe provides consultations in English.

Dr. Julie Dufresne-Lapointe 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

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
• 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.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.

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

• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): Extraction of teeth that are not straightforward to remove due to their position, root morphology, or condition, performed within the scope of general dental practice and comfort level.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Personalized instruction and demonstration of proper brushing and flossing techniques to effectively remove plaque and maintain optimal oral hygiene at home.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Addressing common issues with loose, uncomfortable, or damaged dentures to restore proper fit and patient satisfaction.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Professional hygiene treatments to keep your oral health in optimal condition and prevent future dental problems.

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

At CLINIQUE DENTAIRE MYRIAM HÉBERT, 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 Dufresne-Lapointe frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr Dufresne-Lapointe provides dedicated support for patients going through wanting to understand what was causing their teeth to appear worn down, shorter, or a bit translucent, always aiming for positive outcomes like their gums no longer bleeding during brushing, indicating healthier gum tissue, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as their ability to taste and appreciate food fully, unmarred by dental pain or infection.
• Dr Dufresne-Lapointe often consults with patients whose recognizing the need for a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) because it had been a significant time since their last professional hygiene visit significantly limits their enjoyment of easily flossing and brushing without encountering pain or bleeding from their gums or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve feeling confident about effectively cleaning around their dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances after personalized instruction and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• When wondering if their child would likely need orthodontic treatment in the future based on their current dental development begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr Dufresne-Lapointe helps patients strive for a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment. This makes participating in activities such as their ability to enunciate words clearly for better communication a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Dr Dufresne-Lapointe expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of a tooth that had become very dark or discolored, perhaps after a past injury or previous root canal treatment. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by finding a welcoming and skilled dental practice capable of caring for their entire family's needs, means they can happily and comfortably get back to feeling refreshed and confident with consistently fresh breath throughout the day.

Your personalized dental treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr Dufresne-Lapointe, will be carefully designed to help you reach your specific functional, aesthetic, and overall oral wellness objectives. Dr Dufresne-Lapointe 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 MYRIAM HÉBERT, where Dr Dufresne-Lapointe practices, is situated in the Limoilou (Vieux-Limoilou) neighborhood of Québec City. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near Capitole de Québec and is easily accessible via Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the 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 always used to minimize any potential exposure. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan more complex treatments. Dr Dufresne-Lapointe 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 services does a General Dentist (Dentiste) like Dr Dufresne-Lapointe typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr Dufresne-Lapointe 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. They also provide education on oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr Dufresne-Lapointe 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 (e.g., those managing active gum disease or at high caries risk), while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It's essential to follow Dr Dufresne-Lapointe's specific recommendations.

Do I need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr Dufresne-Lapointe?

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

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 for the general population. Some specific, limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are usually 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., low-income families with children, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). It is strongly recommended to check for any public coverage you may be eligible for and to review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before starting treatment at CLINIQUE DENTAIRE MYRIAM HÉBERT.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr Dufresne-Lapointe at CLINIQUE DENTAIRE MYRIAM HÉBERT?

At your first appointment, Dr Dufresne-Lapointe and the team will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. You'll fill out a medical history form, discuss any dental issues or goals, and undergo a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr Dufresne-Lapointe will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a good opportunity to ask questions.

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's often recommended, and sometimes required by the specialist or insurance plans, to have a referral from your general dentist like Dr Dufresne-Lapointe. A referral ensures the specialist has the necessary background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr Dufresne-Lapointe identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Check with the specialist's office or your insurance if unsure.

What are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?

Early signs of gum disease (gingivitis) include red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums (especially when brushing or flossing), and sometimes persistent bad breath. If it progresses to periodontitis, you might notice receding gums (teeth appearing longer), pus between teeth and gums, loose teeth, or changes in your bite. If you notice any of these, schedule an evaluation with Dr Dufresne-Lapointe promptly.

CLINIQUE DENTAIRE MYRIAM HÉBERT
1000 3eme Ave
Québec City, QC, G1L 2X4

Phone: (418) 641-0094

Dr. Julie Dufresne-Lapointe 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: 22613

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 Dufresne-Lapointe 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.