Dr. Natalie Marie Gaik – Dentist | Hamilton, ON

Dr. Natalie Marie Gaik is a Orthodontist. Practicing at N/A in Hamilton, ON, Dr. Gaik is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Gaik 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. Gaik 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. Gaik 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. Natalie Marie Gaik earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 1986. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Orthodontist at the University of Toronto in 1989. With over 38 years of practice since 1987, Dr. Gaik's extensive clinical experience has provided them with a deep understanding of orthodontic principles and techniques. Dr. Gaik is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Gaik's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Gaik provides consultations in English.

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

Malocclusion Orthodontic Issues

• Misaligned Teeth & Jaws Requiring Specialist Orthodontic Correction: Addressing significant bite problems (malocclusions) and complex dental or skeletal irregularities for optimal long-term oral health, function, and appearance, managed by an orthodontic specialist.

Overbite Underbite Crossbite

• Specific Bite Problems: Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite, Open Bite: Addressing various anteroposterior, vertical, or transverse bite problems through specialized orthodontic care.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.
• 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: Seeking specialist orthodontic evaluation for misaligned jaws that may affect facial harmony, bite function, airway, or TMJ health as the child grows.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Gaik. 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.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Vigilant screening for oral cancer, a critical component of maintaining your overall health.
• Interceptive Orthodontics & Growth Modification (Phase I Treatment): Utilizing orthopedic appliances and early limited braces to positively influence jaw development and tooth eruption.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Providing information about the causes, signs, and stages of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), and how to prevent or manage it effectively.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Gaik. 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. Natalie Marie Gaik 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. Gaik 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:

• At Dr. Gaik's clinic, addressing needing urgent treatment for an infected or abscessed tooth to avoid losing it and to relieve severe pain means focusing on patient goals. Achieving the gap between their front teeth being attractively closed, boosting their confidence helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to their child being able to participate in classroom activities without dental distractions.
• Dr. Gaik expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of noticing a concerning dark spot on one of their teeth, possibly a cavity. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their sensitive teeth becoming much less reactive to hot and cold, making eating enjoyable again, means they can happily and comfortably get back to simply relaxing and not having dental pain or problems on their mind constantly.
• If a specific need to find a dental clinic that is particularly good and patient with nervous or phobic patients is preventing you from fully enjoying their smile being a positive asset in their personal and professional life or causing discomfort, Dr. Gaik offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve having a comfortable, stable, and functional full-mouth tooth replacement solution, like implant-supported dentures through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Gaik to see patients who were troubled by concerns about potential hereditary dental problems or conditions present in their family history successfully achieve their tooth's extreme sensitivity to cold being resolved after identifying and treating the cause. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like their child participating happily in school photos and social activities.

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

Dr. Gaik's practice, which is N/A, is situated in the Hamilton Mountain West Central (Southam, Bonnington) neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near Hamilton Farmers' Market and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

How long does orthodontic treatment (e.g., braces, Invisalign®) usually take with Dr. Gaik?

Treatment time varies greatly depending on case complexity, patient age, appliance type, and patient compliance. Average treatment can range from 12-36 months. Dr. Gaik will provide a personalized estimate after a comprehensive orthodontic assessment.

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 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). Always verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before starting treatment at N/A.

What are dental implants, and how do I know if I'm a suitable candidate?

Dental implants are small, medical-grade titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They provide a strong foundation for fixed (crowns, bridges) or removable replacement teeth (dentures). Good candidates generally have healthy gums and adequate jawbone density, and are in good general health. Dr. Gaik can perform a comprehensive assessment to evaluate your suitability. Dr. Gaik can discuss implants as an option and refer you to an implant specialist if appropriate.

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

Your first visit 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. Gaik will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled.

Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see a dental specialist (e.g., Orthodontist, Periodontist)?

While some specialists may accept patients directly, a referral from a general dentist is often recommended or required by the specialist or insurance plans. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information. If Dr. Gaik identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral.

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

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Gaik will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual needs and risk factors. Follow Dr. Gaik's specific recommendation.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, especially modern digital X-rays. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary. Dr. Gaik will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, adhering to ALARA guidelines.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Gaik for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with N/A.

N/A
883 Upper Wentworth Ave #203B
Hamilton, ON, L9A 4Y6

Phone: (905) 387-2938

Dr. Natalie Marie Gaik 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: 10924

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=10924

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