Dr. Mindy Pho – Dentist | Guelph, ON

Dr. Mindy Pho is a Periodontist. Practicing at Heritage Periodontics in Guelph, ON, Dr. Pho is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Pho 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 Periodontics, Dr. Pho focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) diseases, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Services include non-surgical and surgical periodontal therapies, gum grafting, bone grafting, and the surgical placement and maintenance of dental implants, as well as management of peri-implant diseases. Dr. Pho 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 Heritage Periodontics.

Dr. Mindy Pho earned a Dental Degree from McGill University, graduating in 2004. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Periodontics at the University of Toronto in 2008. With over 20 years of practice since 2005, Dr. Pho's clinical experience is extensive. Additionally, this specialist holds certifications/authorizations for: Parenteral Conscious Sedation - 1 Drug Option; Dentoalveolar CT Scans. Dr. Pho is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Pho's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Pho provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery, Dr. Mindy Pho addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.

Peri Implantitis Mucositis

• Inflammation or Infection Around Dental Implants (Peri-Implant Mucositis/Peri-Implantitis): Signs of gum inflammation (redness, swelling, bleeding) around a dental implant (peri-implant mucositis), or more advanced infection involving bone loss around the implant (peri-implantitis), requiring prompt specialist care.

Periodontal Gum Disease Advanced

• Aggressive Forms of Periodontitis: Rapidly progressing periodontal disease, often seen in younger individuals or those with specific risk factors, requiring intensive specialist management to control bone loss and tooth mobility.
• Moderate to Severe Periodontitis (Gum Disease with Bone Loss): Seeking expert care from a periodontist for complex or advanced gum disease management, including non-surgical deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and often surgical periodontal therapies (e.g., pocket reduction, bone or tissue regeneration).

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Complex dental cases that significantly benefit from the superior diagnostic information and precise measurements provided by CBCT scans for optimal treatment outcomes.

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

• Comprehensive Periodontal Examination & Diagnosis: Specialist evaluation to determine the extent and severity of periodontal disease and create a tailored treatment plan.
• Management of Peri-Implant Diseases (Peri-Implant Mucositis & Peri-Implantitis): Addressing issues related to implant health to prevent implant failure and maintain long-term success.
• Specialist Dental Implant Surgical Placement: Expert surgical placement of dental implants by a periodontal or oral surgery specialist, including management of complex cases, immediate implant placement, and implant site development.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery, Dr. Pho is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Heritage Periodontics, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Through Dr. Pho's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from experiencing sharp or lingering pain when they bit down or chewed on a specific tooth often find they can readily achieve being able to enjoy a wider variety of foods without pain or difficulty chewing and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like no longer having to 'guard' a sensitive tooth when eating or drinking.
• Effectively addressing their gums feeling generally puffy, looking a bit darker red than usual, or exhibiting other signs of inflammation with Dr. Pho's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of the bump or swelling on their gums being diagnosed and appropriately treated, resolving their worry, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in their child being able to eat nutritious crunchy fruits and vegetables without discomfort and social interactions.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Pho about wondering if their child would likely need orthodontic treatment in the future based on their current dental development is to attain a tooth that had become painfully sensitive to sweet foods now feeling completely normal and comfortable. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like being able to eat in public restaurants without anxiety about their teeth or dentures.
• Many people seek Dr. Pho's professional help and expertise when dealing with needing a thorough dental check-up and clearance before starting a major medical treatment or undergoing surgery (e.g., cardiac surgery, organ transplant, chemotherapy). The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently their gums appearing consistently healthy, pink, and firm, without any signs of puffiness or inflammation, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to their child showing pride in their healthy smile and good brushing habits.

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

Heritage Periodontics, where Dr. Pho practices, is situated in the Kortright Hills, Hanlon Creek neighborhood of Guelph. The clinic is conveniently located near the Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate and is accessible via Guelph 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. Pho?

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

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. Pho. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Pho identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. If unsure, check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Pho at Heritage Periodontics?

Your first visit with Dr. Pho 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. Pho 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.

Can persistent bad breath or bleeding gums be a sign I need to see a Periodontist like Dr. Pho?

Yes, persistent bad breath or bleeding gums can be signs of gum disease (periodontitis). While a general dentist often provides initial treatment, a Periodontist like Dr. Pho specializes in diagnosing and treating more advanced or complex cases of gum disease, including surgical and non-surgical therapies to control infection and restore gum health. A referral from a general dentist is common.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Pho will recommend a personalized schedule based on your (or your child's) individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions. Some patients may need visits every 3-4 months, while others might have slightly longer intervals. It is important to follow Dr. Pho's specific recommendations.

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. Pho 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).

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 specific, limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance plans, or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

Heritage Periodontics
44 Corporate Ct
Guelph, ON, N1G 5G5

Phone: (519) 827-2112

Dr. Mindy Pho is a licensed Periodontist 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: 64309

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=64309

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