Dr. Michael John Ponikvar – Dentist | Belleville, ON

Dr. Michael John Ponikvar is a Orthodontist. Practicing at N/A in Belleville, ON, Dr. Ponikvar is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Ponikvar 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. Ponikvar 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. Ponikvar 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 N/A.

Dr. Michael John Ponikvar earned a Dental Degree from University Of Maryland At Baltimore, graduating in 2012. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Orthodontist at the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 2014. Dr. Ponikvar brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Ponikvar is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Ponikvar's dental practice philosophy include a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Ponikvar provides consultations in English.

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

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.

Jaw Alignment Growth Concerns

• Jaw Growth Discrepancies & Skeletal Imbalances in Growing Patients: Addressing underlying skeletal contributions to malocclusion through growth modification therapies or planning for future surgical-orthodontic correction when growth is complete.

Malocclusion Orthodontic Issues

• Misaligned Teeth & Jaws Requiring Specialist Orthodontic Correction: Complex issues of tooth crowding, significant spacing, severe protrusion (overjet), or jaw misalignment (e.g., prognathism, retrognathism) requiring the specialized expertise and comprehensive treatment planning of a certified orthodontist.

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. Ponikvar. 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.
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging: Utilizing Cone Beam CT technology for comprehensive three-dimensional views of your oral and maxillofacial structures when indicated.
• Interceptive Orthodontics & Growth Modification (Phase I Treatment): Early orthodontic intervention for young children to guide jaw growth, correct developing bite problems, improve dental arch space, and potentially reduce the complexity of later treatment.
• 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.
• Clear Aligner Therapy (e.g., Invisalign®, Spark™): Aesthetic and comfortable alternative to traditional braces for correcting various alignment and bite issues.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Ponikvar. 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 John Ponikvar 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. Ponikvar is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At N/A, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Ponikvar's comprehensive care for a persistent sore spot, ulcer, or unusual lesion in their mouth that hadn't healed on its own is meticulously designed to result in experiencing complete relief from pain when biting down on a previously problematic tooth. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as participating actively in sports without fear of dental injury, especially with a custom mouthguard without dental worries.
• Dr. Ponikvar understands that dealing with a desire to explore more permanent or stable options for replacing all of their missing teeth effectively can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving clarity on their child's dental eruption sequence and any potential developmental concerns, helping patients comfortably get back to confidently using their new smile in professional networking or client interactions and feeling their best.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing their gums appearing red, swollen, or inflamed in certain areas of their mouth, involves working systematically towards their smile looking its absolute best for an important upcoming wedding, graduation, or other special event. Dr. Ponikvar expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion.
• When their child feeling particularly anxious or fearful about an upcoming dental filling or procedure starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to feeling good about their overall appearance and the positive first impression their smile makes, Dr. Ponikvar and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by finding a welcoming and skilled dental practice capable of caring for their entire family's needs and a return to comfort and confidence.

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

Dr. Ponikvar's practice, which is N/A, is situated in the East Hill, Downtown Belleville neighborhood of Belleville. The clinic is conveniently located near Quinte Mall (North Front St nearby) and is accessible via Belleville Transit. 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. Ponikvar?

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact N/A directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Ponikvar.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Ponikvar at N/A?

Your first visit with Dr. Ponikvar 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. Ponikvar 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.

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). Check your eligibility for public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at N/A.

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. Ponikvar 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. Ponikvar for a check-up and cleaning?

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Ponikvar will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions (e.g., some 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). Follow Dr. Ponikvar'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 like Dr. Ponikvar. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Ponikvar 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.

N/A
100 Bell Blvd #210
Belleville, ON, K8P 4Y7

Phone: (613) 966-8880

Dr. Michael John Ponikvar 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: 101914

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=101914

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