Dr. Mark Eric Vukovich

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Mark Eric Vukovich addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Jaw Alignment Growth Concerns

• Jaw Growth Discrepancies & Skeletal Imbalances in Growing Patients: Concerns about the proportional growth and development of the upper and lower jaws in children or adolescents, potentially requiring interceptive orthodontic treatment (Phase I) with functional appliances or headgear to guide jaw growth, or future orthognathic (jaw) surgery in conjunction with orthodontics for severe skeletal imbalances.

Crowding Spacing Teeth

• Crowded, Overlapped, or Excessively Spaced Teeth: Teeth that are too close together, rotated, or overlapping, making them difficult to clean and potentially affecting aesthetics and gum health. Or, teeth that have noticeable gaps or spacing between them.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Dental situations where standard 2D X-rays (bitewings, panoramic) are insufficient and a 3D Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan is required for accurate diagnosis, assessment of anatomical complexities, or detailed planning of complex treatments like implants, orthodontics, or endodontics.

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.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.

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

• Comprehensive Orthodontic Diagnosis & Treatment Planning: Detailed consultations to discuss all aspects of orthodontic care, including treatment duration, appliance options, and expected outcomes.
• 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.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging: Advanced 3D dental imaging for precise diagnostics in implant placement, orthodontics, endodontics, or oral surgery cases.
• Clear Aligner Therapy (e.g., Invisalign®, Spark™): Utilizing leading clear aligner systems for effective and virtually invisible teeth straightening.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Vukovich is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At N/A, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Vukovich expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of a desire to explore more permanent or stable options for replacing all of their missing teeth effectively. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their gums looking pink and healthy again after treatment for gingivitis or early gum disease, means they can happily and comfortably get back to sleeping peacefully without the interruption of dental pain or discomfort from oral appliances.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Vukovich when they first notice an old silver amalgam filling looking dark, unsightly, or potentially failing. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their partner reporting less snoring or cessation of breathing pauses during sleep after starting treatment with a dental sleep apnea appliance (facilitated by their dentist), enabling them to once again enjoy laughing openly and heartily without worrying about the appearance of their teeth without hesitation.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed concerns about grinding their teeth so forcefully or frequently that their jaw muscles ached or they experienced morning headaches with Dr. Vukovich's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to successfully replacing their missing tooth with a strong, natural-looking dental implant and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy smiling confidently in photos and social situations without any self-consciousness once more.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing their gums bleeding a little almost every time they brushed or flossed, involves working systematically towards their jaw no longer clicking or popping painfully, and jaw movement feeling smoother. Dr. Vukovich expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including confidently going on dates or meeting new people without dental insecurities.

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

Dr. Vukovich's practice, which is N/A, is situated in the Port Arthur Central (Downtown North Core, Waterfront area) neighborhood of Thunder Bay. The clinic is conveniently located near Thunder Bay Historical Museum and is accessible via Thunder Bay Transit. Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

How long does orthodontic treatment (e.g., braces, Invisalign®) usually take with Dr. Vukovich?

Treatment time varies greatly depending on case complexity, patient age, appliance type, and patient compliance. Average treatment can range from 12-36 months. Dr. Vukovich will provide a personalized estimate after a comprehensive orthodontic assessment.

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 is 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. Vukovich 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.

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

For most patients, preventative care check-ups are generally recommended every 6 months. Dr. Vukovich 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). Follow Dr. Vukovich's specific recommendation.

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

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

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 or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before starting treatment at N/A.

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 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. Vukovich 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 should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Vukovich at N/A?

Your first visit will typically involve a comprehensive dental examination: 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. Vukovich will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled.

N/A
584 Red River Rd #100
Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 1H3

Phone: (807) 345-2569

Dr. Mark Eric Vukovich is a licensed Orthodontist 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: 10521

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=10521

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