Dr. Lawrence Daniel Watral – Dentist | Thunder Bay, ON

Dr. Lawrence Daniel Watral is a Dentist. Practicing at N/A in Thunder Bay, ON, Dr. Watral is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Watral 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. Watral 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. Watral 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 N/A.

Dr. Lawrence Daniel Watral earned a Dental Degree from University Of Manitoba, graduating in 1988. With over 37 years of practice since 1988, Dr. Watral's extensive clinical experience has provided a strong foundation for their expertise. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: N/A. Dr. Watral is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most current and effective treatments.

Key aspects of Dr. Watral's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Watral provides consultations in English.

Dr. Lawrence Daniel Watral provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

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): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Addressing broken or cracked teeth to restore their form, function, and prevent infection.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.

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: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.

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

• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Standard tooth removal procedures for non-impacted teeth that do not require complex surgical intervention.
• 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.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Professional hygiene treatments to keep your oral health in optimal condition and prevent future dental problems.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.

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

At N/A, 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. Watral frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Watral often consults with patients whose their child frequently complaining of a sore tooth or dental discomfort significantly limits their enjoyment of experiencing the simple joy of a pain-free mouth every day or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve feeling confident in their ability to maintain excellent oral hygiene at home with improved techniques and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• When wondering if their child might need braces or orthodontic assessment for crooked teeth begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Watral helps patients strive for their jaw feeling less stiff and more mobile after TMJ therapy or a custom oral appliance. This makes participating in activities such as confidently going on dates or meeting new people without dental insecurities a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Effectively addressing a single tooth that had become noticeably darker in color than the adjacent teeth, possibly after trauma with Dr. Watral's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of the rough or sharp edge on their tooth being smoothed out, eliminating irritation, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in showing off a brighter, more youthful smile after cosmetic treatments and social interactions.
• Patients presenting with experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their slightly crooked front teeth being straightened effectively with a conservative cosmetic option under Dr. Watral's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume passing on good oral hygiene habits and a positive attitude towards dental care to their children without the former limitations or discomfort.

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

Dr. Watral's practice, which is N/A, is situated in the Fort William West (Westfort, Neebing) neighborhood of Thunder Bay. The clinic is conveniently located near Marina Park and is accessible via Thunder Bay Transit. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Watral at N/A?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Watral and the team at N/A 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. Watral will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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). It is strongly recommended that patients verify any potential public coverage they might be eligible for and always check the details of their private dental insurance regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at N/A.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Watral will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions. Some patients may need visits every 3-4 months, while others might have slightly longer intervals. It is important to follow Dr. Watral's specific recommendation.

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

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

N/A
1221 E Victoria Ave
Thunder Bay, ON, P7C 1C1

Phone: (807) 623-5521

Dr. Lawrence Daniel Watral 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: 11234

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=11234

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