Dr. Lawrence C.R. St. Pierre – Dentist | Orillia, ON

Dr. Lawrence C.R. St. Pierre is a Prosthodontist. Practicing at West Ridge Family Dentistry in Orillia, ON, Dr. Pierre is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Pierre 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 Prosthodontics, Dr. Pierre focuses on the advanced restoration and replacement of missing or damaged teeth to restore oral function and aesthetics. Services include complex crowns, bridges, veneers, complete and partial dentures, implant-supported prostheses (crowns, bridges, dentures), full mouth reconstructions, and management of TMJ/occlusal disorders related to bite problems. Dr. Pierre 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 West Ridge Family Dentistry.

Dr. Lawrence C.R. St. Pierre earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 1975. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Prosthodontist at the William Beaumont Army Med.Ctr. in 1982. With over 50 years of practice since 1975, Dr. Pierre has developed extensive clinical expertise. Additionally, this specialist holds certifications/authorizations for: Minimal Nitrous Oxide/Oral Sedation; Dentoalveolar CT Scans. Dr. Pierre is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Pierre's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Pierre provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Prosthodontics, Dr. Lawrence C.R. St. Pierre addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Missing Teeth Full Arch Replacement

• Complete Edentulism (All Teeth Missing) or Failing Full Dentition Requiring Full-Arch Replacement: Specialist care in providing predictable and highly functional full-arch tooth replacement solutions.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

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

Severe Tooth Wear Occlusal Issues

• Severe Tooth Wear (Attrition, Abrasion, Erosion) or Complex Occlusal (Bite) Problems: Seeking advanced solutions to restore worn or damaged teeth, correct bite discrepancies that may be causing harm or dysfunction, and prevent further deterioration of the dentition.

Complex Tooth Restoration Needs

• Extensively Damaged, Worn, or Multiple Missing Teeth Requiring Advanced Prosthetic Restoration: Addressing highly demanding dental conditions that require advanced reconstructive, restorative, and prosthetic skills to achieve predictable and durable outcomes.

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

• Full Mouth Reconstruction & Rehabilitation: A multidisciplinary approach (often coordinating with other specialists) to rehabilitate oral function, comfort, and appearance in patients with extensive dental problems.
• Advanced Cosmetic Dentistry (Veneers, Smile Design - Specialist Level): Specialist-level expertise in cosmetic smile design and execution of complex aesthetic dental restorations.
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging: Utilizing Cone Beam CT technology for comprehensive three-dimensional views of your oral and maxillofacial structures when indicated.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.

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

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

• With Dr. Pierre's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing a persistent white patch (leukoplakia) or red patch (erythroplakia) in their mouth or on their tongue that wouldn't go away and needed urgent assessment is focused on achieving a tooth that had become painfully sensitive to sweet foods now feeling completely normal and comfortable. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to their smile reflecting their inner happiness and confidence without dental concerns.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing experiencing a persistently dry mouth (xerostomia) feeling, making it uncomfortable to speak or swallow, involves working systematically towards their child sleeping soundly again after a painful toothache was resolved. Dr. Pierre expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including resuming hobbies that require concentration, now free from dental pain.
• Effectively addressing their breath not feeling consistently fresh or clean even immediately after brushing and flossing with Dr. Pierre's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of their old, failing crown being replaced with a new, perfectly fitting, and aesthetic restoration, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in biting into sandwiches or other challenging foods with complete confidence and social interactions.
• When a specific need to find a dental clinic that is particularly good and patient with nervous or phobic patients starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to enjoying a corn on the cob or biting into a crisp apple without hesitation, Dr. Pierre and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their jaw feeling less stiff and more mobile after TMJ therapy or a custom oral appliance and a return to comfort and confidence.

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

West Ridge Family Dentistry, where Dr. Pierre practices, enjoys a central location within the Orillia neighborhood of Orillia. 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.

My dentures are loose and uncomfortable. Can a Prosthodontist like Dr. Pierre help improve their fit and function?

Yes, a Prosthodontist like Dr. Pierre specializes in creating and fitting dentures. They can assess existing dentures for relines or adjustments, or design new, better-fitting conventional dentures or explore options like implant-supported dentures for significantly improved stability and comfort.

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 like Dr. Pierre. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Pierre identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance if unsure.

I experience jaw pain, clicking, and headaches. Can Dr. Pierre help with TMJ/TMD issues?

Dr. Pierre can perform an initial assessment of your jaw pain and related symptoms. Depending on the findings and complexity, they may offer some conservative management advice or provide a referral to a dentist or specialist with advanced training in TMJ disorders if more specialized care is indicated.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Pierre at West Ridge Family Dentistry?

Your first visit with Dr. Pierre will typically involve a comprehensive dental examination. This includes a review of your medical and dental history, a thorough check of your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues (including an oral cancer screening), and any necessary X-rays. Dr. Pierre will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if any care is needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

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

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

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. Pierre 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 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.

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

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

West Ridge Family Dentistry
3230 Monarch Dr #3
Orillia, ON, L3V 8A2

Phone: (705) 242-4727

Dr. Lawrence C.R. St. Pierre is a licensed Prosthodontist 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: 7927

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=7927

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