Dr. Julie Kim

Dr. Julie Kim 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

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.
• 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.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.

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.

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

• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Dedicated time to review diagnostic findings, explain recommended procedures, and collaboratively create a dental care strategy that meets your needs and goals.
• Intravenous (IV) Sedation (Moderate or 'Twilight' Sedation - If Certified): A highly effective and predictable sedation technique for achieving profound relaxation and anxiety control during various dental treatments, ensuring patient comfort and cooperation.
• Oral Conscious Sedation (Anxiolysis): A commonly used sedation option for patients with moderate dental fear or anxiety, allowing them to remain conscious and able to respond to verbal cues but feel deeply relaxed and often have little memory of the procedure.
• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Conservative and durable restorations used to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage that is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a full coverage crown.

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

At Sagewood Dental Care, 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. Kim frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Understanding the frustration a wish to correct slightly crooked or misaligned front teeth without undergoing full comprehensive orthodontic braces can cause, Dr. Kim tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their gums looking pink and healthy again after treatment for gingivitis or early gum disease, allowing for renewed participation in activities like enjoying the sensation of a clean, healthy mouth after every meal and hygiene routine.
• At Dr. Kim's clinic, addressing a tooth getting accidentally knocked out or avulsed during a sports game or accident means focusing on patient goals. Achieving feeling confident about effectively cleaning around their dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances after personalized instruction helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to speaking clearly and confidently in professional meetings or social gatherings.
• Effectively addressing needing a substantial amount of dental work done and feeling quite overwhelmed by the prospect with Dr. Kim's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of feeling confident that their gum health is being actively maintained, preventing future problems, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in confidently going on dates or meeting new people without dental insecurities and social interactions.
• With Dr. Kim's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing simply needing a routine, comprehensive dental check-up and a thorough professional cleaning is focused on achieving receiving clear dental clearance before a major medical procedure, ensuring their overall health is prioritized. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to their child understanding the importance of regular dental check-ups for a lifetime of health without dental concerns.

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

Sagewood Dental Care, where Dr. Kim practices, is situated in the Hamilton East Central (Crown Point, Stipley) neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near Bayfront Park and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Sagewood Dental Care directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Kim.

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 to further minimize exposure. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Kim 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).

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, social assistance recipients). Check your eligibility for any potential public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

Yes, Dr. Kim understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, Sagewood Dental Care offers various sedation options, which may include nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral conscious sedation. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Kim during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

What services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Kim typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Kim 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.

What is the process for becoming a new patient at Sagewood Dental Care with Dr. Kim?

We welcome new patients to Sagewood Dental Care! To become a new patient with Dr. Kim, please call our office at (905) 577-0770. Our team will gather some basic information and schedule your first appointment, which is typically a comprehensive examination and consultation. Please be prepared to provide your medical history and any dental insurance information you may have. We look forward to meeting you!

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

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

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Kim at Sagewood Dental Care?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Kim and the team will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect a medical history form, a discussion about dental issues or goals, a detailed examination, and possibly digital X-rays. Dr. Kim will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

Sagewood Dental Care
848 Main St E #100
Hamilton, ON, L8M 1L9

Phone: (905) 577-0770

Dr. Julie Kim is a licensed Dentist 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: 58799

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=58799

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