Dr. Lily Lo

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

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.

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.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• 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.

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

• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Removable prosthetic solutions, including conventional and implant-retained options, to effectively replace missing teeth, thereby improving oral function, facial support, and overall appearance.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Professional hygiene treatments to keep your oral health in optimal condition and prevent future dental problems.
• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): More involved tooth extractions that are beyond simple forceps removal, potentially including careful elevation of soft tissues for better visibility and access (for less complex surgical cases appropriate for a GP setting).
• Dental Sealants: A simple and effective preventative measure to reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth.

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

At Lawrence Avenue Dental, 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. Lo frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Lo's comprehensive care for waking up frequently with a sore jaw, facial muscle tenderness, or tension headaches, possibly from teeth grinding is meticulously designed to result in understanding the cause of their tooth wear and having a plan to prevent further damage. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as their child participating happily in school photos and social activities without dental worries.
• With Dr. Lo's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing experiencing diffuse facial pain or muscle tenderness that they suspected might be related to their jaw joint or bite is focused on achieving their previously dark, non-vital tooth being internally bleached or restored to a natural shade. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet without dental concerns.
• For individuals troubled by a persistent sore spot, ulcer, or unusual lesion in their mouth that hadn't healed on its own, Dr. Lo's approach is focused on delivering their breath feeling consistently fresh and clean due to improved oral health. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like no longer having to worry about a loose crown or bridge when they are out with a healthier smile.
• Dr. Lo provides dedicated support for patients going through an interest in straightening their teeth but a strong preference for avoiding traditional metal braces, exploring clear aligner options, always aiming for positive outcomes like their old, uncomfortable dental bridge being replaced with a well-fitting and aesthetic new one, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as confidently recommending their dentist, {preferred_name}, to friends and family based on their positive experiences.

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

Lawrence Avenue Dental, where Dr. Lo practices, is situated in a central location within the Don Mills neighborhood of Don Mills. 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 are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?

Early signs of gum disease (gingivitis) often include red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums (especially when brushing or flossing), and sometimes persistent bad breath. If it progresses to periodontitis, you might notice receding gums (teeth appearing longer), pus between teeth and gums, loose teeth, or changes in your bite. If you observe any of these symptoms, it's important to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Lo promptly.

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 always 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. Lo 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).

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Lo 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 if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals). Following Dr. Lo's specific recommendation is key.

What are the most effective ways to prevent cavities (tooth decay)?

Cavity prevention relies on consistent home care and regular professional support from Dr. Lo. This includes brushing for two minutes twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing to clean between teeth, minimizing consumption of sugary snacks and beverages, and attending routine dental exams and cleanings at Lawrence Avenue Dental. For extra defense, especially in children, Dr. Lo might suggest dental sealants or in-office fluoride applications.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Lo at Lawrence Avenue Dental?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Lo and the team at Lawrence Avenue Dental 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. Lo will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Lo is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services including: preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Lawrence Avenue Dental directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Lo.

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). Always verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

Lawrence Avenue Dental
1200 Lawrence Ave E #101
Don Mills, ON, M3A 1C1

Phone: (416) 444-9045

Dr. Lily Lo 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: 11636

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=11636

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