Dr. Michael Sho Shimizu – Dentist | London, ON

Dr. Michael Sho Shimizu is a Dentist. Practicing at London Health Sciences Centre in London, ON, Dr. Shimizu is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Shimizu 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. Shimizu 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. Shimizu 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 London Health Sciences Centre.

Dr. Michael Sho Shimizu earned a Dental Degree from University Of British Columbia, graduating in 1989. With over 25 years of practice since 2000, Dr. Shimizu's clinical experience is extensive. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: 1999 - Dalhousie University, Canada (Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon); Deep Sedation - General Anesthesia; N/A. Dr. Shimizu is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Shimizu's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Shimizu provides consultations in English.

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

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.

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): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Tooth decay in infants and young children, often affecting the upper front teeth, requiring early intervention and preventative strategies.

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

• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• Dental Crowns (Caps): Placing custom-made dental crowns (caps) to cover, protect, and strengthen damaged, weakened, extensively filled, or root-canal-treated teeth, restoring their original shape, size, and appearance.
• 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.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Utilizing advanced digital X-ray technology (e.g., bitewings, periapicals, panoramic X-rays) for safe and precise diagnosis of dental conditions.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.

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

At London Health Sciences Centre, 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. Shimizu frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients experiencing needing practical advice and guidance on how to properly care for their toddler's newly erupted first teeth often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Shimizu's practice, a key objective is a single discolored tooth being aesthetically restored to match the rest of their smile, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in easily maintaining their daily oral hygiene routine without experiencing bleeding or pain.
• Through Dr. Shimizu's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from a tooth that suddenly became extremely and uncharacteristically sensitive to cold water or air, causing sharp pain often find they can readily achieve gaining clarity about their child's future orthodontic needs and the optimal timing for any potential treatment and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like attending social events and family dinners without worrying about denture stability or food getting trapped.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of a noticeable gap between their front teeth that they had always wished to close, Dr. Shimizu offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their child with special healthcare needs successfully and calmly completing necessary dental treatment in a supportive environment. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of getting a full night's sleep without being woken up by a throbbing toothache or jaw pain.
• If their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Shimizu develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their concerns about chronic bad breath being fully addressed through identification and treatment of the underlying dental or oral cause. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy their child looking forward to dental visits rather than fearing them.

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

Dr. Shimizu's practice, London Health Sciences Centre, is situated in the Downtown London, North London East neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near North London Athletic Fields and is accessible via London Transit Commission (LTC). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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 taken only when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Shimizu 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 (Dentist) like Dr. Shimizu typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Shimizu 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, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). Dr. Shimizu also educates patients on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs.

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

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

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Shimizu at London Health Sciences Centre?

Your first visit will typically involve a comprehensive dental examination. This includes reviewing 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. Shimizu will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often 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 ON, provincial health plans like OHIP typically do NOT cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics. Some specific, limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket or through private dental insurance plans (often through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

Generally, every 6 months is recommended for preventative care. Dr. Shimizu will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual needs, risk factors, and existing conditions. Some may need visits every 3-4 months, while others might have slightly longer intervals. Follow Dr. Shimizu's specific recommendation.

What cosmetic dentistry options might Dr. Shimizu offer to improve the appearance of my smile?

Dr. Shimizu focuses on comprehensive general dentistry. While many restorative procedures have excellent aesthetic outcomes, for specific advanced cosmetic concerns, Dr. Shimizu can discuss basic aesthetic improvements available or provide a referral to a dentist specializing in cosmetic procedures or a prosthodontist.

London Health Sciences Centre
339 Windermere Rd #B3-300 Department of Dentistry/University Campus
London, ON, N6A 5A5

Phone: (519) 663-3451

Dr. Michael Sho Shimizu 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: 49804

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=49804

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