Dr. Karen Fung – Dentist | Ottawa, ON

Dr. Karen Fung is a Periodontist. Practicing at Dentistry on Catherine Street in Ottawa, ON, Dr. Fung is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Fung 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 Periodontics, Dr. Fung focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) diseases, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Services include non-surgical and surgical periodontal therapies, gum grafting, bone grafting, and the surgical placement and maintenance of dental implants, as well as management of peri-implant diseases. Dr. Fung 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 Dentistry on Catherine Street.

Dr. Karen Fung earned a Dental Degree from McGill University, graduating in 2008. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Periodontics at the University of Connecticut in 2011. With over 14 years of practice since 2011, Dr. Fung's clinical expertise is extensive. Additionally, this specialist holds certifications/authorizations for: Minimal Oral; Dentoalveolar CT Scans. Dr. Fung is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Fung's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Fung provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery, Dr. Karen Fung addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Dental Implant Complications

• Complications with Existing Dental Implants (e.g., Peri-implantitis, Loosening, Fracture): Experiencing issues such as persistent inflammation, infection (peri-implant mucositis or peri-implantitis), bone loss, pain, or mobility around existing dental implants, or problems with the implant crown or prosthesis (e.g., loosening, fracture), requiring specialist evaluation and treatment by a periodontist, prosthodontist, or oral surgeon.

Receding Gums Bone Loss

• Significant Gum Recession or Localized Jawbone Loss Requiring Augmentation: Seeking specialist surgical treatment to restore lost gum or bone tissue for improved periodontal health, functional support for teeth/implants, and enhanced smile appearance.

Peri Implantitis Mucositis

• Inflammation or Infection Around Dental Implants (Peri-Implant Mucositis/Peri-Implantitis): Managing inflammatory conditions around implants to prevent their failure and ensure long-term success.

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

• Comprehensive Periodontal Examination & Diagnosis: Specialist evaluation to determine the extent and severity of periodontal disease and create a tailored treatment plan.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Providing information about the causes, signs, and stages of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), and how to prevent or manage it effectively.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Low-radiation digital radiographs to detect cavities between teeth, assess bone levels, view tooth roots, and identify other hidden dental issues.
• Specialist Dental Implant Surgical Placement: Expert surgical placement of dental implants by a periodontal or oral surgery specialist, including management of complex cases, immediate implant placement, and implant site development.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery, Dr. Fung is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dentistry on Catherine Street, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Patients frequently come to Dr. Fung with concerns about their dentures frequently rubbing, causing persistent sore spots, or making it difficult to eat comfortably. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve their previously loose tooth feeling stable and secure after treatment, making a positive and lasting return to feeling great about their smile in photographs and videos not just possible, but highly feasible.
• Understanding the frustration an old silver amalgam filling looking dark, unsightly, or potentially failing can cause, Dr. Fung tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve the sore spot or ulcer in their mouth healing completely after diagnosis and treatment, allowing for renewed participation in activities like passing on good oral hygiene habits and a positive attitude towards dental care to their children.
• If a dental issue, such as misaligned or discolored teeth, that was significantly affecting their confidence to smile openly and interact socially has unfortunately put smiling confidently in photos and social situations without any self-consciousness on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Fung works closely with patients towards attaining their knocked-out tooth being successfully reimplanted and saved thanks to prompt emergency care, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• Dr. Fung often consults with patients whose having chipped a tooth unexpectedly while eating something hard significantly limits their enjoyment of attending social events and family dinners without worrying about denture stability or food getting trapped or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve their jaw no longer clicking or popping painfully, and jaw movement feeling smoother and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.

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

Dentistry on Catherine Street, where Dr. Fung practices, is situated in the Centretown South (Golden Triangle) neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Westgate Shopping Centre and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Fung at Dentistry on Catherine Street?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Fung and the team at Dentistry on Catherine Street 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. Fung 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. Fung?

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Dentistry on Catherine Street directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Fung.

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 provided by 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 public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before treatment at Dentistry on Catherine Street.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Fung 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 more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months), while others might have slightly longer intervals. Follow Dr. Fung's specific recommendations.

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

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. Fung 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).

Dentistry on Catherine Street
240 Catherine St #404
Ottawa, ON, K2P 2G8

Phone: (613) 234-1211

Dr. Karen Fung is a licensed Periodontist 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: 89554

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=89554

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