Dr. Maura Helene McKeown

Dr. Maura Helene McKeown provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Dental Implant Planning

• Comprehensive Assessment of Jawbone for Dental Implant Suitability: Detailed pre-operative assessment and diagnostic workup specifically for dental implant surgery, including evaluation of adjacent anatomical structures.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.

Orthodontic Assessment Needs

• Concerns about Crooked, Crowded, Gapped, or Protruding Teeth: Wanting to explore solutions like braces or clear aligners for straightening teeth and improving overall smile aesthetics and dental health.
• Bite Problems (Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite, Open Bite, Deep Bite): Seeking comprehensive assessment and correction of various types of malocclusion (improper bite) by an orthodontic specialist or appropriately trained general dentist.

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

• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Thorough dental cleanings by a registered dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and surface stains, promoting healthy gums and teeth.
• Clear Aligner Therapy (Limited Cases by GP, if specifically trained): Straightening teeth using a series of custom-made clear plastic aligners for carefully selected candidates, often focusing on anterior alignment.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Treatment involving the removal of infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, thorough cleaning and shaping of the root canal system, and sealing it to prevent reinfection, often for less complex endodontic cases.

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

At Dr. Maura McKeown & Associates, 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. McKeown frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Through Dr. McKeown's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from feeling self-conscious about the stained or yellowish appearance of their teeth often find they can readily achieve their new partial or full denture feeling exceptionally stable, comfortable, and looking completely natural and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like feeling refreshed and confident with consistently fresh breath throughout the day.
• When an old dental crown that needed to be replaced because it was visibly worn, chipped, poorly fitting, or had decay underneath starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to attending social events and family dinners without worrying about denture stability or food getting trapped, Dr. McKeown and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their gums looking pink and healthy again after treatment for gingivitis or early gum disease and a return to comfort and confidence.
• A key objective when treating waking up frequently with a sore jaw, facial muscle tenderness, or tension headaches, possibly from teeth grinding at Dr. McKeown's welcoming dental clinic is achieving their sensitive teeth becoming much less reactive to hot and cold, making eating enjoyable again. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like no longer experiencing the embarrassment or discomfort of ill-fitting or noticeable dental work.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed a tooth that had become very dark or discolored, perhaps after a past injury or previous root canal treatment with Dr. McKeown's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their previously sensitive exposed tooth roots being protected and desensitized and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy feeling comfortable with close-up interactions and conversations once more.

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

Dr. Maura McKeown & Associates is situated in a central location within the Fergus neighborhood of Fergus. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. McKeown 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 treatments, dental sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, and initial management of gum disease. They may also offer cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or bonding. General dentists educate patients on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

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

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

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. McKeown at Dr. Maura McKeown & Associates?

Your first visit with Dr. McKeown 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. McKeown 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 often should I (or my child) visit Dr. McKeown for a check-up and cleaning?

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. McKeown 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) if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals. It's crucial to follow Dr. McKeown's specific recommendations.

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 between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. McKeown 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 are dental implants, and how do I know if I'm a suitable candidate?

Dental implants are small, medical-grade titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They provide a strong foundation for fixed (crowns, bridges) or removable replacement teeth (dentures). Good candidates generally have healthy gums and adequate jawbone density to support the implant, and are in good general health. Dr. McKeown can perform a comprehensive assessment, which may include X-rays or 3D CBCT imaging, to evaluate your suitability. Dr. McKeown can discuss implants as an option and refer you to an implant specialist (like a Periodontist or Oral Surgeon) if appropriate.

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). Always check your private dental insurance and verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for before starting treatment.

What should I do if I have a dental emergency outside of Dr. Maura McKeown & Associates's regular office hours?

For life-threatening emergencies (severe bleeding, difficulty breathing due to swelling, significant facial trauma), go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911. For urgent, non-life-threatening dental issues (severe toothache, knocked-out tooth, dental abscess, broken tooth causing sharp pain), call Dr. Maura McKeown & Associates’ main office number at (519) 787-0024. The voicemail may provide instructions for emergency contact or direct you to an emergency dental service.

Dr. Maura McKeown & Associates
200 St Patrick St E
Fergus, ON, N1M 1M4

Phone: (519) 787-0024

Dr. Maura Helene McKeown 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: 11682

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=11682

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