Dr. Mariela Karina Monagas Cortez – Dentist | Thunder Bay, ON

Dr. Mariela Karina Monagas Cortez is a Dentist. Practicing at Baywood Dental in Thunder Bay, ON, Dr. Cortez is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Cortez 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. Cortez 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. Cortez 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 Baywood Dental.

Dr. Mariela Karina Monagas Cortez earned a Dental Degree from Santa Maria University, graduating in 2000. With approximately one year of practice since 2024, Dr. Cortez's professional journey reflects a commitment to providing exceptional dental care. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: N/A. Dr. Cortez is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Cortez's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Cortez provides consultations in English.

Dr. Mariela Karina Monagas Cortez 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): Early to moderate stages of gum disease involving some bone loss around teeth, managed by GPs with deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.

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

• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Fabrication of custom-fitted sports mouthguards to protect teeth and jaws from injury during athletic activities.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Nutritional advice tailored to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent dental diseases.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Providing information about the causes, signs, and stages of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), and how to prevent or manage it effectively.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.

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

At Baywood 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. Cortez frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Cortez expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of an old dental crown that needed to be replaced because it was visibly worn, chipped, poorly fitting, or had decay underneath. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by the dark spot on their tooth being treated, preventing a larger cavity from forming, means they can happily and comfortably get back to experiencing the simple joy of a pain-free mouth every day.
• Patients experiencing a wish to improve the aesthetics of their smile for an upcoming special life event, such as a wedding or graduation often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Cortez's practice, a key objective is their toothache being completely resolved, allowing them to eat and sleep comfortably again, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in replacing missing teeth and feeling whole again, with a complete and functional smile.
• Dr. Cortez provides dedicated support for patients going through a wisdom tooth starting to cause significant pain, pressure, or signs of infection, always aiming for positive outcomes like their previously sensitive exposed tooth roots being protected and desensitized, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as feeling relief from chronic headaches that were linked to their TMJ or bruxism.
• Are you struggling with persistent bad breath (halitosis) that didn't seem to improve despite good hygiene? Dr. Cortez partners with patients to target their previously dark, non-vital tooth being internally bleached or restored to a natural shade, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as enjoying the peace of mind that comes with a healthy, well-maintained mouth a much more achievable reality.

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

Baywood Dental, where Dr. Cortez practices, is situated in the Port Arthur North (Current River, Centennial Park area) neighborhood of Thunder Bay. The clinic is conveniently located near Magnus Theatre and is accessible via Thunder Bay Transit. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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 public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before treatment at Baywood Dental.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Cortez 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 (every 3-4 months), while others might have slightly longer intervals. Follow Dr. Cortez's specific recommendations.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Cortez at Baywood Dental?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Cortez and the team will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, discuss any dental issues or goals, and undergo a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Cortez will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Cortez 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). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, especially modern digital X-rays using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Cortez will determine the frequency based on your individual needs, adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) guidelines.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Cortez for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can book an appointment directly with Baywood Dental.

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

Dr. Cortez 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.

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

To prevent cavities, maintain excellent oral hygiene (brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily), eat a balanced diet limiting sugary and acidic foods/drinks, and have regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings with Dr. Cortez. Dr. Cortez may also recommend dental sealants or professional fluoride treatments.

Baywood Dental
131 East Ave
Thunder Bay, ON, P7A 8A4

Phone: (807) 767-7521

Dr. Mariela Karina Monagas Cortez 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: 504304

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=504304

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