Dr. Melanie Tam – Dentist | Montréal, QC

Dr. Melanie Tam is a Dentiste. Practicing at Centre dentaire Cartierville in Montréal, QC, Dr Tam is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr Tam is licensed by The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in QC. Dr Tam 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 Tam 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 Centre dentaire Cartierville.

Dr. Melanie Tam earned a Dental Degree. Dr Tam brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr Tam is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures Dr Tam remains at the forefront of advancements in dental technology and techniques, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatment options available. Dr Tam's professional development includes participation in continuing education courses, workshops, and conferences, ensuring their skills and knowledge remain current and relevant.

Key aspects of Dr Tam's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr Tam provides consultations in English.

Dr. Melanie Tam 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

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.
• 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.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Providing immediate care for teeth that have been knocked out (avulsed), dislodged, or fractured due to an accident or injury, aiming to save the tooth if possible.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr Tam. 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): Personalized protective oral appliances, including athletic guards for impact protection and night guards to alleviate TMJ stress and prevent tooth wear.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Repairing cavities and minor tooth defects with durable, natural-looking composite resin fillings that blend seamlessly with your existing teeth.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: High-resolution dental photography for documenting conditions, planning treatments, and tracking progress.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Designing, fabricating, and fitting comfortable, functional, and natural-looking complete dentures (for patients missing all teeth in an arch) or partial dentures (for patients missing some teeth) to restore chewing ability, speech, and smile aesthetics. Options may include implant-supported dentures for enhanced stability.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Personalized instruction and demonstration of proper brushing and flossing techniques to effectively remove plaque and maintain optimal oral hygiene at home.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr Tam. 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. Melanie Tam adhere to scope of practice for Dentistes in QC and standards of The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ).

At Centre dentaire Cartierville, 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 Tam frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• If having chipped a tooth unexpectedly while eating something hard is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr Tam develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their child with special healthcare needs successfully and calmly completing necessary dental treatment in a supportive environment. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy sleeping peacefully without the interruption of dental pain or discomfort from oral appliances.
• Dr Tam understands that dealing with concerns about potential hereditary dental problems or conditions present in their family history can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving finding a dental team that understands and effectively manages their dental nervousness, helping patients comfortably get back to easily flossing and brushing without encountering pain or bleeding from their gums and feeling their best.
• Effectively addressing their child experiencing a dental emergency, such as a badly broken tooth or facial swelling with Dr Tam's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of their toothache being completely resolved, allowing them to eat and sleep comfortably again, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in maintaining a youthful appearance complemented by a healthy and attractive smile and social interactions.
• For those affected by ongoing concerns about bad breath that they believed might be related to a hidden dental infection or persistent gum problem, Dr Tam provides solutions that lead to their previously loose tooth feeling stable and secure after treatment. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to their child being able_to focus on learning and playing without the interruption of dental pain.

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

Centre dentaire Cartierville, where Dr Tam practices, is situated in a central location within the Montréal neighborhood of Montréal. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Centre dentaire Cartierville directly to arrange their visit with Dr Tam.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr Tam at Centre dentaire Cartierville?

At your initial appointment, Dr Tam and the team at Centre dentaire Cartierville 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 Tam will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

In Quebec, provincial health plans like the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) typically do NOT cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics for the general population. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered by RAMQ. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers). Government assistance programs may cover some dental care for eligible groups, such as children from low-income families or seniors on specific benefits. It is crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to always check your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before starting treatment at Centre dentaire Cartierville.

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr Tam 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 oral health might have slightly longer intervals between visits. Follow Dr Tam's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

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 only taken when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr Tam 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 services does a General Dentist (Dentiste) like Dr Tam typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr Tam is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages. They offer a wide range of services, including preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may offer cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also provide education on oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists for more complex needs.

Centre dentaire Cartierville
5535 Boul Gouin O
Montréal, QC, H4J 1C8

Phone: (514) 331-0060

Dr. Melanie Tam is a licensed Dentiste in QC, regulated by The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ) under the Code des professions & Loi sur les dentistes (Québec).

License Number: 29316

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ).

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