Dr. Ninan Joshua – Dentist | St. Catharines, ON

Dr. Ninan Joshua is a Dentist. Practicing at Fourth Avenue Dental Centre in St. Catharines, ON, Dr. Joshua is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Joshua 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. Joshua 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. Joshua 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 Fourth Avenue Dental Centre.

Dr. Ninan Joshua earned a Dental Degree from Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, graduating in 1995. With over 21 years of practice since 2004, Dr. Joshua has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Joshua is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most effective and advanced treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Joshua's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Joshua provides consultations in English.

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

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.

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: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• 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.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.

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.

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

• Fluoride Treatments: Application of topical fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel, prevent demineralization, and reduce the risk of cavities, especially for children and at-risk adults.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Treatment involving the removal of infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, thorough cleaning and shaping of the root canal system, and sealing it to prevent reinfection, often for less complex endodontic cases.
• 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.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Thorough dental cleanings by a registered dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and surface stains, promoting healthy gums and teeth.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.

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

At Fourth Avenue Dental 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. Joshua frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For those affected by a dental issue, such as misaligned or discolored teeth, that was significantly affecting their confidence to smile openly and interact socially, Dr. Joshua provides solutions that lead to experiencing relief from facial pain after the dental contributions were identified and managed. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to their smile being ready for any impromptu photo opportunity or social media post.
• With Dr. Joshua's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing waking up frequently with a sore jaw, facial muscle tenderness, or tension headaches, possibly from teeth grinding is focused on achieving achieving their desired level of teeth whiteness safely and effectively under professional supervision. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to concentrating fully on their work or studies without the distraction of dental discomfort without dental concerns.
• Patients experiencing their child experiencing a dental emergency, such as a badly broken tooth or facial swelling often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Joshua's practice, a key objective is experiencing a significant reduction in jaw pain and morning headaches after treatment for teeth grinding (bruxism), which directly supports their ability to fully engage in maintaining a professional appearance that boosts their career prospects.
• Many people seek Dr. Joshua's professional help and expertise when dealing with a tooth that suddenly became extremely and uncharacteristically sensitive to cold water or air, causing sharp pain. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently feeling confident in their ability to maintain excellent oral hygiene at home with improved techniques, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to knowing their teeth are well-protected from decay and damage.

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

Fourth Avenue Dental Centre, where Dr. Joshua practices, is situated in the Port Dalhousie neighborhood of St. Catharines. The clinic is conveniently located near Ridley College and is accessible via Niagara Region Transit (NRT). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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. Joshua are crucial for early detection and effective treatment.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Joshua at Fourth Avenue Dental Centre?

Your first visit with Dr. Joshua 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. Joshua 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.

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Joshua will recommend a personalized schedule based on your 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. It is essential to follow Dr. Joshua's specific recommendations.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Fourth Avenue Dental Centre directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Joshua.

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 any potential exposure. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Joshua 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. Joshua typically provide?

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

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 by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It's crucial to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment at Fourth Avenue Dental Centre.

Fourth Avenue Dental Centre
111 Fourth Ave #1, #2, #3 Ridley Square
St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3P6

Phone: (905) 688-1661

Dr. Ninan Joshua 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: 62250

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=62250

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