Dr. Mark Timothy Smith – Dentist | London, ON

Dr. Mark Timothy Smith is a Dentist. Practicing at 525 Dental in London, ON, Dr. Smith is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Smith 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. Smith 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. Smith 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 525 Dental.

Dr. Mark Timothy Smith earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 1981. With over 44 years of practice since 1981, Dr. Smith has cultivated extensive clinical experience. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: N/A. Dr. Smith is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments.

Key aspects of Dr. Smith's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; 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. Smith provides consultations in English.

Dr. Mark Timothy Smith 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

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

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

• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Fostering informed decision-making through comprehensive patient education about their dental health status and available treatment pathways.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Removable prosthetic solutions, including conventional and implant-retained options, to effectively replace missing teeth, thereby improving oral function, facial support, and overall appearance.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Comprehensive advice on preventing gum inflammation and infection for lifelong oral health and overall well-being.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Providing custom-made night guards (occlusal splints) to protect teeth from the effects of nocturnal bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching).
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Standard tooth removal procedures for non-impacted teeth that do not require complex surgical intervention.

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

At 525 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. Smith frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The primary focus for patients seeking help for one of their teeth starting to feel a bit loose or wobbly at Dr. Smith's practice is consistently achieving achieving the beautiful, confident smile they had always desired through cosmetic dentistry. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as their overall facial aesthetics being enhanced by well-planned dental and/or facial esthetic treatments.
• Dr. Smith's comprehensive care for looking for a new family dentist who could provide comprehensive care for all members of their family, from children to adults is meticulously designed to result in achieving straighter teeth and an improved bite with discreet clear aligner therapy. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as feeling more outgoing and engaging in conversations more readily without dental worries.
• Overcoming or effectively managing their gums appearing red, swollen, or inflamed in certain areas of their mouth is a common journey for patients under Dr. Smith's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling their chipped or broken tooth being beautifully restored to its natural shape and function, so that daily routines and pleasures like feeling comfortable and pain-free throughout their day, no longer bothered by a nagging dental problem become straightforward again.
• For those affected by a tooth that felt 'high' or uncomfortable after a recent dental filling, affecting their bite, Dr. Smith provides solutions that lead to a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to attending social events and family dinners without worrying about denture stability or food getting trapped.

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

525 Dental, where Dr. Smith practices, is situated in the Carling, Boullee neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near Western University (nearby) and is accessible via London Transit Commission (LTC). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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 to further minimize exposure. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Smith 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).

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Smith will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and 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 important to follow Dr. Smith's specific recommendation.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Smith for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with 525 Dental.

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). It is important to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment at 525 Dental.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Smith at 525 Dental?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Smith and the team at 525 Dental 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. Smith will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

525 Dental
525 Oxford St E
London, ON, N5Y 3H8

Phone: (519) 672-1190

Dr. Mark Timothy Smith 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: 9455

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=9455

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