Dr. Maria Jacinta Moraes Coelho Santos – Dentist | London, ON

Dr. Maria Jacinta Moraes Coelho Santos is a Dentist. Practicing at University of Western Ontario in London, ON, Dr. Santos is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Santos 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. Santos 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. Santos 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 University of Western Ontario.

Dr. Maria Jacinta Moraes Coelho Santos earned a Dental Degree from The Federal University Of Bahia, graduating in 1988. Dr. Santos brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: N/A. Dr. Santos is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Santos remains at the forefront of advancements in dental technology and treatment techniques, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable care possible.

Key aspects of Dr. Santos's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Santos provides consultations in English.

Dr. Maria Jacinta Moraes Coelho Santos 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

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Providing immediate care for teeth that have been knocked out (avulsed), dislodged, or fractured due to an accident or injury, aiming to save the tooth if possible.

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

• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Addressing common issues with loose, uncomfortable, or damaged dentures to restore proper fit and patient satisfaction.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Saving natural teeth from extraction by treating the inner pulp tissue, commonly for straightforward root canal procedures on teeth with predictable anatomy.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: High-resolution dental photography for documenting conditions, planning treatments, and tracking progress.
• Dental Crowns (Caps): Placing custom-made dental crowns (caps) to cover, protect, and strengthen damaged, weakened, extensively filled, or root-canal-treated teeth, restoring their original shape, size, and appearance.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Low-radiation digital radiographs to detect cavities between teeth, assess bone levels, view tooth roots, and identify other hidden dental issues.

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

At University of Western Ontario, 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. Santos frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of a dental problem or discomfort that they had been avoiding or putting off addressing for far too long, Dr. Santos offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach receiving a definitive diagnosis for an unusual growth or spot in their mouth, leading to appropriate action. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion.
• Through Dr. Santos's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from their child's prolonged thumb-sucking habit and concerns about its impact on their teeth and jaw development often find they can readily achieve their child receiving necessary specialized dental care thanks to a timely referral and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like delivering important presentations or public speeches with clarity and self-assurance.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing an urgent need to replace a recently lost front tooth before other teeth started to shift or their appearance was significantly affected, involves working systematically towards their sensitive teeth becoming much less reactive to hot and cold, making eating enjoyable again. Dr. Santos expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including feeling more outgoing and engaging in conversations more readily.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Santos with concerns about a desire to ensure their current oral hygiene routine at home was truly effective and optimal. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve a tooth that had become painfully sensitive to sweet foods now feeling completely normal and comfortable, making a positive and lasting return to being able to eat in public restaurants without anxiety about their teeth or dentures not just possible, but highly feasible.

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

Dr. Santos's practice, University of Western Ontario, is situated in the Downtown London, North London East neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near Victoria Park and is accessible via London Transit Commission (LTC). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

Does University of Western Ontario offer direct billing to dental insurance companies (assignment of benefits)?

While we do not offer direct billing to insurance companies at this time (meaning payment in full is due at the time of service), we will provide you with all the necessary standardized dental claim forms and detailed official receipts. You can then easily submit these to your dental insurance provider for prompt reimbursement according to your policy terms and coverage. Our administrative team is happy to assist you with understanding the forms if needed.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Santos 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, and initial management of gum disease. They also educate patients on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Santos will recommend a personalized schedule based on your 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), while others may have slightly longer intervals. Following Dr. Santos's specific recommendation is crucial.

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 also used. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Santos will determine the frequency based on your individual needs and history, adhering to ALARA principles (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

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

What cosmetic dentistry options might Dr. Santos offer to improve the appearance of my smile?

Dr. Santos focuses on comprehensive general dentistry for overall oral health. While many restorative procedures also have excellent aesthetic outcomes, if you have specific advanced cosmetic concerns, they can discuss basic aesthetic improvements available or provide a referral to a dentist specializing in cosmetic procedures or a prosthodontist if more advanced treatment is desired.

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 limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket or through private dental insurance. Check your insurance coverage and eligibility for any government assistance programs before treatment.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Santos at University of Western Ontario?

At your first visit, expect to fill out a medical history form, discuss your dental concerns and goals with Dr. Santos, and undergo a detailed examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Santos will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

University of Western Ontario
1151 Richmond Street
London, ON, N6A 5C1

Phone: (519) 661-2111

Dr. Maria Jacinta Moraes Coelho Santos 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: 81093

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=81093

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