Dr. Melissa Anne Parker – Dentist | Oakville, ON

Dr. Melissa Anne Parker is a Orthodontist. Practicing at SmileDesign Dental Care in Oakville, ON, Dr. Parker is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Parker 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. As a certified specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Parker focuses exclusively on the diagnosis, prevention, interception, and comprehensive treatment of malocclusions (improper bites), misaligned teeth, and jaw irregularities using a full range of orthodontic appliances including braces, clear aligners, and retainers for children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Parker 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 SmileDesign Dental Care.

Dr. Melissa Anne Parker earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 1988. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Orthodontist at the Loyola University in 1993. With over 36 years of practice since 1989, Dr. Parker's extensive clinical experience has provided them with a deep understanding of orthodontic principles and techniques. Dr. Parker is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most effective and advanced treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Parker's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Parker provides consultations in English.

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

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.

Malocclusion Orthodontic Issues

• Misaligned Teeth & Jaws Requiring Specialist Orthodontic Correction: Seeking advanced orthodontic treatment, typically involving fixed braces (metal or ceramic) or comprehensive clear aligner therapy (e.g., Invisalign® Full), from a specialist to achieve optimal dental alignment, bite function, and facial aesthetics.

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.

Overbite Underbite Crossbite

• Specific Bite Problems: Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite, Open Bite: Seeking orthodontic correction for these specific bite discrepancies that can affect chewing, speech, tooth wear, and facial aesthetics.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Parker. 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: Developing individualized orthodontic treatment plans to correct malocclusions and achieve optimal dental and facial aesthetics.
• Clear Aligner Therapy (e.g., Invisalign®, Spark™): Aesthetic and comfortable alternative to traditional braces for correcting various alignment and bite issues.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Ensuring you fully understand your dental care plan and have all your questions answered before proceeding with any treatment, fostering informed consent.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Dedicated time to review diagnostic findings, explain recommended procedures, and collaboratively create a dental care strategy that meets your needs and goals.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Parker. 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. Melissa Anne Parker 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. Parker is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At SmileDesign Dental Care, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Parker understands that dealing with persistent bad breath (halitosis) that didn't seem to improve despite good hygiene can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving their dentures no longer causing sore spots, allowing them to eat and speak with ease, helping patients comfortably get back to their child being able to eat nutritious crunchy fruits and vegetables without discomfort and feeling their best.
• If the area around one of their existing dental implants feeling persistently sore, inflamed, or showing signs of bleeding is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Parker develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their knocked-out tooth being successfully reimplanted and saved thanks to prompt emergency care. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy being able to use their teeth for all normal functions without a second thought.
• Dr. Parker often consults with patients whose a tooth that suddenly became extremely and uncharacteristically sensitive to cold water or air, causing sharp pain significantly limits their enjoyment of being able to eat in public restaurants without anxiety about their teeth or dentures or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care 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) and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• Effectively addressing a dental problem that was causing significant difficulty or pain when they tried to eat certain types of foods with Dr. Parker's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in feeling that their investment in cosmetic or restorative dentistry was truly worthwhile for their self-esteem and social interactions.

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

SmileDesign Dental Care, where Dr. Parker practices, is situated in the Kerr Village, Glen Abbey East neighborhood of Oakville. The clinic is conveniently located near various plazas and is accessible via Oakville Transit. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Parker at SmileDesign Dental Care?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Parker and the team at SmileDesign Dental Care 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. Parker 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 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, through programs like Healthy Smiles Ontario). It is crucial to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check the details of your private dental insurance regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at SmileDesign Dental Care.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Parker 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. It's essential to follow Dr. Parker's specific recommendation.

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. Parker 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.

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. Parker 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).

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

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

SmileDesign Dental Care
205 Lakeshore Rd W
Oakville, ON, L6K 0H8

Phone: (905) 582-8558

Dr. Melissa Anne Parker 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: 11309

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=11309

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