Dr. Olaf Bernd Plotzke – Dentist | London, ON

Dr. Olaf Bernd Plotzke is a Pediatric Dentist. Practicing at Thames Valley Children's Centre in London, ON, Dr. Plotzke is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Plotzke 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 Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Plotzke provides comprehensive and specialized preventative and therapeutic oral health care exclusively for infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special health care needs. This includes behavior guidance, sedation, and treatment of early childhood caries and developmental dental issues.

Dr. Olaf Bernd Plotzke earned a Dental Degree from University Of Western Ontario, graduating in 1977. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Paediatric Dentist at the Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis in 1984. With over 48 years of practice since 1977, Dr. Plotzke's extensive clinical experience is complemented by their dedication to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures Dr. Plotzke remains at the forefront of pediatric dentistry, consistently employing the latest techniques and technologies to benefit their young patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Plotzke's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Plotzke provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Olaf Bernd Plotzke addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.

Dental Trauma Children

• Traumatic Injuries to Primary or Young Permanent Teeth in Children: Dental injuries in children resulting from falls, sports, or other accidents, leading to chipped, fractured, dislodged (luxated), or knocked-out (avulsed) primary or young permanent teeth, requiring prompt assessment and appropriate emergency and follow-up care by a dentist, ideally a pediatric specialist for complex cases.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Children with significant systemic health conditions (e.g., organ transplants, cancer, uncontrolled diabetes) who require careful dental management and coordination with their medical specialists to prevent oral complications and ensure dental treatments are performed safely.
• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Seeking a pediatric dental specialist or a general dentist with significant experience and resources in providing safe, effective, and compassionate dental care for children with unique and complex needs, potentially including the use of advanced behavior guidance techniques or sedation/anesthesia.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Dental situations where standard 2D X-rays (bitewings, panoramic) are insufficient and a 3D Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan is required for accurate diagnosis, assessment of anatomical complexities, or detailed planning of complex treatments like implants, orthodontics, or endodontics.

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

• Comprehensive Oral Health Care for Infants, Children & Adolescents: Tailored dental services to meet the unique needs of growing smiles, from first tooth to teenage years.
• Pediatric Sedation Dentistry (Nitrous Oxide, Oral Sedation, IV Sedation, General Anesthesia - Specialist Setting): Ensuring safe, comfortable, and stress-free dental treatment for children who require advanced behavior management or sedation techniques to receive necessary care.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Guidance on the best tools and methods for cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly to prevent dental problems.
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging: Utilizing Cone Beam CT technology for comprehensive three-dimensional views of your oral and maxillofacial structures when indicated.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Plotzke is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Thames Valley Children's Centre, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Plotzke expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of their jaw making clicking, popping, or grating sounds when they opened their mouth wide or chewed. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their chipped or broken tooth being beautifully restored to its natural shape and function, means they can happily and comfortably get back to their child being able_to focus on learning and playing without the interruption of dental pain.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease, involves working systematically towards their extensive dental work being completed efficiently and comfortably, often with the help of sedation. Dr. Plotzke expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including their child looking forward to dental visits rather than fearing them.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of wondering if their child might need braces or orthodontic assessment for crooked teeth, Dr. Plotzke offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of no longer avoiding certain social situations because of how they feel about their teeth.
• Through Dr. Plotzke's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from a tooth that had become very dark or discolored, perhaps after a past injury or previous root canal treatment often find they can readily achieve a tooth that had become painfully sensitive to sweet foods now feeling completely normal and comfortable and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like enjoying romantic moments without self-consciousness about their breath or smile.

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

Dr. Plotzke's practice, Thames Valley Children's Centre, is situated in the Woodfield, Wortley Village neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near Cherryhill Village Mall and is accessible via London Transit Commission (LTC). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Plotzke at Thames Valley Children's Centre?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Plotzke and the team at Thames Valley Children's Centre will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Plotzke will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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 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 (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is essential to verify your eligibility for any potential public coverage and to check your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before treatment at Thames Valley Children's Centre.

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

Dental X-rays are very safe, especially modern digital X-rays that use minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan treatments). Dr. Plotzke will determine the frequency based on your individual needs, adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral to see Dr. Plotzke for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can book an appointment directly with Thames Valley Children's Centre.

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months for preventative care. However, Dr. Plotzke will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months), while others might have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Plotzke's specific recommendations.

Thames Valley Children's Centre
779 Base Line Rd E
London, ON, N6C 5Y6

Phone: (519) 685-8680

Dr. Olaf Bernd Plotzke is a licensed Pediatric 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: 8503

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=8503

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