Dr. Maria Colaiacovo – Dentist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Maria Colaiacovo is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto, ON, Dr. Colaiacovo is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Colaiacovo 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. Colaiacovo 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. Colaiacovo also provides comprehensive general dental care with various certified levels of sedation (such as nitrous oxide/'laughing gas', oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on specific qualifications) to help anxious patients, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals undergoing extensive procedures feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable throughout their dental treatment. Dr. Colaiacovo 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 Mount Sinai Hospital.

Dr. Maria Colaiacovo earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 2003. With over 22 years of practice since 2003, Dr. Colaiacovo offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: N/A. Dr. Colaiacovo is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Colaiacovo's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Colaiacovo provides consultations in English.

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

Gag Reflex Management

• Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Experiencing a hyperactive or severe gag reflex that significantly interferes with routine dental examinations, X-rays, impressions, or treatments.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Seeking a pediatric dental specialist or a general dentist with significant experience and resources in providing safe, effective, and compassionate dental care for children with unique and complex needs, potentially including the use of advanced behavior guidance techniques or sedation/anesthesia.
• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Specialized considerations for dental treatment in pediatric patients with underlying illnesses.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.

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

• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Utilizing advanced digital X-ray technology (e.g., bitewings, periapicals, panoramic X-rays) for safe and precise diagnosis of dental conditions.
• 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).
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
• Dental Sealants: A simple and effective preventative measure to reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Routine removal of teeth that are severely decayed, extensively damaged beyond restoration, very mobile due to advanced gum disease, or for orthodontic purposes, performed under local anesthesia when the tooth is fully erupted and easily accessible.

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

At Mount Sinai Hospital, 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. Colaiacovo frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Colaiacovo when they first notice feeling like food consistently and annoyingly got stuck between certain teeth after meals. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve an impacted tooth being successfully managed or removed, preventing future pain, infection, or damage to other teeth, enabling them to once again enjoy enjoying the full taste of food without a metallic taste from old fillings or bad breath without hesitation.
• Overcoming or effectively managing a need for a professional dental opinion on a growth, unusual spot, or texture change in their mouth that they discovered is a common journey for patients under Dr. Colaiacovo's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling a noticeable reduction or cessation of gum bleeding when flossing, indicating improved gingival health, so that daily routines and pleasures like easily maintaining their daily oral hygiene routine without experiencing bleeding or pain become straightforward again.
• For patients where a strong desire to improve the overall aesthetic appearance of their smile is a primary concern, Dr. Colaiacovo focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in their gums no longer bleeding during brushing, indicating healthier gum tissue. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully no longer needing to frequently visit the dentist for recurring problems due to better preventative care.
• Effectively addressing their child having a pronounced fear of needles or injections at the dental office, requiring a very patient approach with Dr. Colaiacovo's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of experiencing relief from facial pain after the dental contributions were identified and managed, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in their children developing positive, lifelong habits for good oral health and social interactions.

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

Dr. Colaiacovo's practice, Mount Sinai Hospital, is situated in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Port Lands and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Colaiacovo will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, some patients may need visits 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. It is essential to follow Dr. Colaiacovo's specific recommendations.

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, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Colaiacovo 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 payment options are available at Mount Sinai Hospital for dental services?

Payment is typically due at the time services are provided. Mount Sinai Hospital accepts cash, debit, Visa, and MasterCard. We are also experienced in handling claims for most private dental insurance plans. For details on payment plans for larger treatments, please speak with our administrative staff.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Colaiacovo at Mount Sinai Hospital?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Colaiacovo and the team at Mount Sinai Hospital 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. Colaiacovo 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. Colaiacovo typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Colaiacovo 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, 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, if offered). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. Colaiacovo may offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options based on additional training.

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

Yes, Dr. Colaiacovo understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, Mount Sinai Hospital may offer various sedation options. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Colaiacovo during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

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

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

No, you generally do not need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Colaiacovo for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Mount Sinai Hospital.

Mount Sinai Hospital
600 University Ave #412, Dental Dept
Toronto, ON, M5G 1X5

Phone: (416) 586-5147

Dr. Maria Colaiacovo 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: 58962

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=58962

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