Dr. Maria Murad – Dentist | Pickering, ON

Dr. Maria Murad is a Pediatric Dentist. Practicing at Hifive Kids Dental and Braces in Pickering, ON, Dr. Murad is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Murad 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 Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Murad provides comprehensive and specialized preventative and therapeutic oral health care exclusively for infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special health care needs. This includes behavior guidance, sedation, and treatment of early childhood caries and developmental dental issues. Dr. Murad 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 Hifive Kids Dental and Braces.

Dr. Maria Murad earned a Dental Degree from University Of Detroit Mercy, graduating in 2012. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Paediatric Dentist at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio in 2016. With over 13 years of practice since 2012, Dr. Murad has developed extensive clinical experience. Additionally, this specialist holds certifications/authorizations for: Oral Moderate Sedation. Dr. Murad is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Murad's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Murad provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Maria Murad addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Early Childhood Caries

• Aggressive Tooth Decay (Cavities) in Infants & Toddlers (ECC): Managing extensive cavities in baby teeth, often requiring comprehensive restorative treatment (fillings, crowns, pulp therapy) and intensive preventative strategies (dietary counseling, fluoride, hygiene modification) to prevent further decay, pain, infection, and ensure proper development and function of both primary and permanent dentitions.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

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

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Children with significant systemic health conditions (e.g., organ transplants, cancer, uncontrolled diabetes) who require careful dental management and coordination with their medical specialists to prevent oral complications and ensure dental treatments are performed safely.
• 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 Trauma Children

• Traumatic Injuries to Primary or Young Permanent Teeth in Children: Dental injuries in children resulting from falls, sports, or other accidents, leading to chipped, fractured, dislodged (luxated), or knocked-out (avulsed) primary or young permanent teeth, requiring prompt assessment and appropriate emergency and follow-up care by a dentist, ideally a pediatric specialist for complex cases.

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

• Comprehensive Oral Health Care for Infants, Children & Adolescents: Expert management of all aspects of children's oral health, focusing on prevention, early intervention, and positive dental experiences.
• Behavior Guidance & Management for Pediatric Patients: Expertise in managing the behavior of young or anxious children to ensure safe and effective dental treatment.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Dedicated time to review diagnostic findings, explain recommended procedures, and collaboratively create a dental care strategy that meets your needs and goals.
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging: Advanced 3D dental imaging for precise diagnostics in implant placement, orthodontics, endodontics, or oral surgery cases.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Educating patients on the importance of gum health and the steps they can take to maintain healthy periodontal tissues for life.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Murad is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Hifive Kids Dental and Braces, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• The primary focus for patients seeking help for feeling like their jaw was often stiff, sore, or difficult to move freely, especially upon waking in the morning at Dr. Murad's practice is consistently achieving their old, unsightly silver filling being replaced with a natural-looking tooth-coloured restoration. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as laughing openly and heartily without worrying about the appearance of their teeth.
• If needing a custom-fitted mouthguard for playing sports to properly protect their teeth and jaw from injury has unfortunately put no longer having to 'guard' a sensitive tooth when eating or drinking on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Murad works closely with patients towards attaining their child with special healthcare needs successfully and calmly completing necessary dental treatment in a supportive environment, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• If feeling self-conscious about the stained or yellowish appearance of their teeth is preventing you from fully enjoying being able to eat in public restaurants without anxiety about their teeth or dentures or causing discomfort, Dr. Murad offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve their child's toothache being resolved, and the tooth saved with appropriate treatment through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• When a dental problem that was causing significant difficulty or pain when they tried to eat certain types of foods starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to their child being able to eat nutritious crunchy fruits and vegetables without discomfort, Dr. Murad and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by feeling confident that their gum health is being actively maintained, preventing future problems and a return to comfort and confidence.

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

Hifive Kids Dental and Braces, where Dr. Murad practices, is situated in the Liverpool, Dunbarton neighborhood of Pickering. The clinic is conveniently located near Pickering Casino Resort and is accessible via Durham Region Transit (DRT). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Murad 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 health might have slightly longer intervals. It is crucial to follow Dr. Murad's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Murad at Hifive Kids Dental and Braces?

Your first visit with Dr. Murad 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. Murad 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.

How does Dr. Murad as a Pediatric Dentist manage children with dental anxiety or special healthcare needs?

Dr. Murad employs specialized training in behavior guidance techniques, such as tell-show-do, positive reinforcement, and distraction, to create a calm and child-friendly environment. Their experience extends to patients with various needs. Depending on the child's needs and the complexity of the treatment, options like nitrous oxide sedation might be considered, or Dr. Murad may coordinate care with other specialists for deeper sedation or general anesthesia if necessary. The approach is always patient and gentle.

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). Check your eligibility for any potential public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

Dr. Murad 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.

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's often recommended, and sometimes required by the specialist or insurance plans, to have a referral from a general dentist. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Murad 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.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Murad for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Hifive Kids Dental and Braces.

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. Murad 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).

Hifive Kids Dental and Braces
2460 Brock Rd #CO-203
Pickering, ON, L1X 0J1

Phone: (905) 995-6060

Dr. Maria Murad is a licensed Pediatric 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: 92749

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=92749

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