Dr. Laura Marie McElligott – Dentist | Hanmer, ON

Dr. Laura Marie McElligott is a Dentist. Practicing at Valley Dental Clinic in Hanmer, ON, Dr. McElligott is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. McElligott 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. Dr. McElligott 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. McElligott 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 Valley Dental Clinic.

Dr. Laura Marie McElligott earned a Dental Degree from University Of Dublin, graduating in 2014. With over 10 years of practice since 2015, Dr. McElligott's experience has provided a strong foundation in comprehensive dental care. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: N/A. Dr. McElligott is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. McElligott's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. McElligott provides consultations in English.

Dr. Laura Marie McElligott 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

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Persistent unpleasant breath odor often linked to oral hygiene issues, gum disease, dry mouth, or other dental conditions.

Gum Disease Initial

• 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.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Early to moderate stages of gum disease involving some bone loss around teeth, managed by GPs with deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.

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

• Oral Cancer Screening: Proactive examinations as part of your check-up to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.
• 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.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Nutritional advice tailored to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent dental diseases.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Repairing cavities and minor tooth defects with durable, natural-looking composite resin fillings that blend seamlessly with your existing teeth.
• 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.

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

At Valley 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. McElligott frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of an old dental filling falling out or a crown feeling loose, unstable, or detaching, Dr. McElligott offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their lost filling or crown being promptly and durably replaced, protecting the tooth. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of enjoying the sensation of a clean, healthy mouth after every meal and hygiene routine.
• Overcoming or effectively managing wanting to know if professional teeth whitening procedures would be safe and effective for their specific situation is a common journey for patients under Dr. McElligott's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling experiencing a significant reduction in jaw pain and morning headaches after treatment for teeth grinding (bruxism), so that daily routines and pleasures like resuming hobbies that require concentration, now free from dental pain become straightforward again.
• Understanding the frustration an old dental crown that needed to be replaced because it was visibly worn, chipped, poorly fitting, or had decay underneath can cause, Dr. McElligott tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their gums appearing consistently healthy, pink, and firm, without any signs of puffiness or inflammation, allowing for renewed participation in activities like easily flossing and brushing without encountering pain or bleeding from their gums.
• When patients discuss needing urgent treatment for an infected or abscessed tooth to avoid losing it and to relieve severe pain, Dr. McElligott outlines a path to experiencing complete relief from pain when biting down on a previously problematic tooth, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably travelling and trying new cuisines without fear of unexpected dental emergencies.

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

Valley Dental Clinic, where Dr. McElligott practices, is situated in a central location within the Hanmer neighborhood of Hanmer. 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.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. McElligott at Valley Dental Clinic?

At your initial appointment, Dr. McElligott and the team at Valley 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. McElligott will explain their 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 a very safe diagnostic tool, 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, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or to plan more complex treatments. Dr. McElligott will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health needs, 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. McElligott?

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. McElligott for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Valley Dental Clinic.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. McElligott will recommend a personalized schedule based on your (or your child's) 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) if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between appointments. It is important to follow Dr. McElligott's specific recommendation.

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

Dr. McElligott and our team at Valley Dental Clinic are committed to making your dental experience as comfortable as possible. While we may not offer extensive sedation options in-house, please discuss any anxieties you have with Dr. McElligott. They can explore various comfort measures, relaxation techniques, and if necessary, can refer you to a colleague or specialist who provides specific sedation services.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. McElligott 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 include cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. Dr. McElligott also provides education on oral hygiene and will refer patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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). It's crucial to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment at Valley Dental Clinic.

Valley Dental Clinic
5085 Hwy 69 N #17
Hanmer, ON, P3P 1P7

Phone: (705) 969-0880

Dr. Laura Marie McElligott 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: 106250

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=106250

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