Dr. Karen Da Silva – Dentist | Strathroy, ON

Dr. Karen Da Silva is a Endodontist. Practicing at Strathroy Endodontics in Strathroy, ON, Dr. Silva is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Silva 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 Endodontics, Dr. Silva is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries of the dental pulp (nerve) and periradicular tissues (tissues surrounding the root of a tooth). Primary services include complex root canal therapy, retreatment of previous root canals, endodontic surgery (apicoectomy), and management of traumatic dental injuries. Dr. Silva 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 Strathroy Endodontics.

Dr. Karen Da Silva earned a Dental Degree from University Of Manitoba, graduating in 2007. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Endodontist at the Harvard University in 2013. Dr. Silva brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Additionally, this specialist holds certifications/authorizations for: Minimal Nitrous Oxide/Oral Sedation; Dentoalveolar CT Scans. Dr. Silva is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Silva'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. Silva provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Endodontics, Dr. Karen Da Silva addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Complex Root Canal Needs

• Need for Complex Root Canal Retreatment or Endodontic Surgery (Apicoectomy): Seeking specialist endodontic care for difficult, previously treated, or anatomically complex root canal cases that are beyond the scope of general dental practice.

Abscessed Tooth Endo

• Acute or Chronic Dental Abscess of Endodontic Origin: Managing infections originating from the tooth pulp that have spread to the surrounding bone.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Complex dental cases that significantly benefit from the superior diagnostic information and precise measurements provided by CBCT scans for optimal treatment outcomes.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

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

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

• Complex Root Canal Therapy & Retreatment (Specialist Level): Performing intricate root canal treatments on teeth with challenging anatomy (e.g., curved canals, calcified canals, multiple canals), managing procedural complications, or retreating previously failed root canals, often utilizing advanced techniques like microscopy.
• Diagnosis of Complex Orofacial Pain of Endodontic Origin: Specialized diagnostic skills to differentiate odontogenic (tooth-related) pain from non-odontogenic orofacial pain, particularly when symptoms are atypical or difficult to localize.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.
• 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.
• Advanced Endodontic Diagnostic Testing (Pulp Vitality, CBCT): Utilizing specialized tests to assess pulp health (e.g., thermal tests, electric pulp testing) and advanced imaging like CBCT for detailed 3D views of root canal anatomy and periapical pathology.

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

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

• Many people seek Dr. Silva's professional help and expertise when dealing with feeling like their teeth were gradually shifting position or their bite was changing noticeably over time. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently their jaw no longer clicking or popping painfully, and jaw movement feeling smoother, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to their child participating happily in school photos and social activities.
• Are you struggling with needing practical advice and guidance on how to properly care for their toddler's newly erupted first teeth? Dr. Silva partners with patients to target their new partial or full denture feeling exceptionally stable, comfortable, and looking completely natural, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as feeling that their dental health fully supports their active and engaged lifestyle a much more achievable reality.
• Overcoming or effectively managing concerns about grinding their teeth so forcefully or frequently that their jaw muscles ached or they experienced morning headaches is a common journey for patients under Dr. Silva's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling successfully replacing their missing tooth with a strong, natural-looking dental implant, so that daily routines and pleasures like their child being able_to focus on learning and playing without the interruption of dental pain become straightforward again.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Silva when they first notice their teeth feeling overly sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve a suspicious white or red patch in their mouth being diagnosed early, leading to effective management, enabling them to once again enjoy enjoying the peace of mind that comes with a healthy, well-maintained mouth without hesitation.

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

Strathroy Endodontics, Dr. Silva's practice, is situated in a central location within the Strathroy neighborhood of Strathroy. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Silva at Strathroy Endodontics?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Silva and the team at Strathroy Endodontics 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. Silva will explain her assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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 between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Silva 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).

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Strathroy Endodontics directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Silva.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

In ON, 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 and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

Why is it important to try and save a tooth with root canal treatment by an Endodontist like Dr. Silva, instead of just extracting it?

Saving a natural tooth with endodontic treatment is usually best because it maintains natural chewing function, normal biting force, natural appearance, and prevents adjacent teeth from shifting. Replacing an extracted tooth with a bridge or implant can be more complex and costly in the long run.

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

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Silva will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months). Follow Dr. Silva's specific recommendation.

Strathroy Endodontics
323 Caradoc St S, Unit A
Strathroy, ON, N7G 2P3

Phone: (519) 245-7070

Dr. Karen Da Silva is a licensed Endodontist 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: 98038

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=98038

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