Dr. Michael Douglas Kirton – Dentist | London, ON

Dr. Michael Douglas Kirton is a Dentist (Advanced Dental Imaging - CT Scans). Practicing at Interface Centre for OMS in London, ON, Dr. Kirton is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Kirton 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. Kirton 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. Kirton utilizes advanced dental imaging technologies, such as Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), for superior diagnostic capabilities and precise treatment planning for complex cases including dental implants, orthodontics, endodontics, impacted teeth, or assessment of oral pathology. Dr. Kirton 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 Interface Centre for OMS.

Dr. Michael Douglas Kirton earned a Dental Degree from University Of Western Ontario, graduating in 1996. With over 29 years of practice since 1996, Dr. Kirton offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry Utilizing Advanced Dental Imaging (CBCT/CT Scans). This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: 2001 - University of Illinois at Chicago, United States (Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon); Deep Sedation - General Anesthesia. Dr. Kirton is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Kirton's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Kirton provides consultations in English.

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

Impacted Teeth Assessment

• Concerns about Impacted or Unerupted Teeth (e.g., Wisdom Teeth, Canines): Experiencing symptoms like pain, swelling, infection, or pressure related to teeth (most commonly wisdom teeth, but also canines or other teeth) that have not fully erupted through the gums or are stuck (impacted) within the jawbone.

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.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.

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

• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.
• Dental Implant Consultation, Assessment & Treatment Planning: Personalized and detailed treatment planning for single or multiple dental implant placement and subsequent restoration, considering bone quality/quantity and aesthetic goals.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Nutritional advice tailored to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent dental diseases.
• Surgical Placement of Dental Implants (Single & Multiple - within GP Scope): Precise placement of dental implants to provide a strong and durable foundation for future attachment of replacement teeth (crowns, bridges, or dentures).
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Fabrication of custom-fitted sports mouthguards to protect teeth and jaws from injury during athletic activities.

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

At Interface Centre for OMS, 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. Kirton frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When experiencing sharp or lingering pain when they bit down or chewed on a specific tooth begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Kirton helps patients strive for a tooth that had become painfully sensitive to sweet foods now feeling completely normal and comfortable. This makes participating in activities such as laughing openly and heartily without worrying about the appearance of their teeth a pleasant and possible experience again.
• For individuals troubled by needing a completely new set of dentures because their old ones were very worn out, ill-fitting, and no longer functional, Dr. Kirton's approach is focused on delivering their chipped or broken tooth being beautifully restored to its natural shape and function. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like singing their favorite songs with gusto, whether in a choir or just for fun with a healthier smile.
• Are you struggling with their jaw making clicking, popping, or grating sounds when they opened their mouth wide or chewed? Dr. Kirton partners with patients to target their new partial or full denture feeling exceptionally stable, comfortable, and looking completely natural, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as enjoying romantic moments without self-consciousness about their breath or smile a much more achievable reality.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Kirton about a need for a professional dental opinion on a growth, unusual spot, or texture change in their mouth that they discovered is to attain their child with special healthcare needs successfully and calmly completing necessary dental treatment in a supportive environment. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like no longer experiencing the embarrassment or discomfort of ill-fitting or noticeable dental work.

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

Dr. Kirton's practice, Interface Centre for OMS, is situated in the Oakridge, Westmount North neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near Covent Garden Market and is accessible via London Transit Commission (LTC). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Kirton 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, inlays, onlays), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease (gingivitis and early periodontitis), and may also include some cosmetic procedures (like teeth whitening or bonding). Dr. Kirton also provides patient education on oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists when more complex care is needed. Dr. Kirton's advanced training in dental imaging enhances their diagnostic and treatment planning capabilities.

What are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?

Be aware of gums that bleed easily during oral hygiene, appear red or puffy, or feel sore, as these are common indicators of gingivitis. Persistent bad taste or bad breath can also be a sign. More advanced gum disease (periodontitis) may involve gums pulling away from teeth, noticeable tooth mobility, or discomfort when chewing. Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Kirton are crucial for early detection and effective treatment.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Kirton at Interface Centre for OMS?

Your first visit with Dr. Kirton 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. Kirton 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.

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

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

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Kirton will recommend a personalized schedule based on your (or your child's) 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 appointments. Always follow Dr. Kirton's specific recommendations.

What are the most effective ways to prevent cavities (tooth decay)?

To effectively prevent cavities, maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing thoroughly twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. It's also crucial to eat a balanced diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods/drinks, especially between meals. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings with Dr. Kirton are essential for early detection and prevention. Dr. Kirton may also recommend dental sealants or professional fluoride treatments for added protection, particularly for children.

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. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered under OHIP. 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 be available for eligible individuals or families with low incomes (e.g., children through Healthy Smiles Ontario). Always check the details of your private dental insurance and explore any potential public coverage before your treatment at Interface Centre for OMS.

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 minimize any potential exposure. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Kirton 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).

Interface Centre for OMS
220 Oxford St W
London, ON, N6H 1S4

Phone: (519) 433-8333

Dr. Michael Douglas Kirton 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: 13179

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=13179

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