Dr. Patricia Cristina Moraga – Dentist | Westmount, QC

Dr. Patricia Cristina Moraga is a Dentiste. Practicing at WESTMOUNT DENTAL CARE in Westmount, QC, Dr Moraga is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr Moraga is licensed by The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in QC. Dr Moraga 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 Moraga 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 WESTMOUNT DENTAL CARE.

Dr. Patricia Cristina Moraga earned a Dental Degree. Dr Moraga brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr Moraga is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment to professional development ensures that Dr Moraga remains at the forefront of advancements in dentistry, benefiting patients with the latest techniques and technologies. Dr Moraga's pursuit of excellence is a testament to their dedication to providing exceptional patient care.

Key aspects of Dr Moraga's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr Moraga strives to create a positive and relaxing atmosphere where patients feel comfortable and confident in their care. Dr Moraga provides consultations in English.

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

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): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Addressing broken or cracked teeth to restore their form, function, and prevent infection.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Providing immediate care for teeth that have been knocked out (avulsed), dislodged, or fractured due to an accident or injury, aiming to save the tooth if possible.

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

• Dental Sealants: Application of a thin, protective coating to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to seal out food particles and bacteria, preventing cavities in deep grooves and pits.
• 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.
• Fluoride Treatments: Strengthening tooth surfaces with fluoride to make them more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): Extraction of teeth that are not straightforward to remove due to their position, root morphology, or condition, performed within the scope of general dental practice and comfort level.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr Moraga. 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. Patricia Cristina Moraga adhere to scope of practice for Dentistes in QC and standards of The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ).

At WESTMOUNT DENTAL CARE, 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 Moraga frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients experiencing a desire to discuss options for a comprehensive 'smile makeover' to address multiple aesthetic concerns often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr Moraga's practice, a key objective is their gums no longer bleeding during brushing, indicating healthier gum tissue, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in no longer having to 'guard' a sensitive tooth when eating or drinking.
• Dr Moraga often consults with patients whose wondering if their child would likely need orthodontic treatment in the future based on their current dental development significantly limits their enjoyment of replacing missing teeth and feeling whole again, with a complete and functional smile or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve a noticeable reduction or cessation of gum bleeding when flossing, indicating improved gingival health and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for their gums appearing red, swollen, or inflamed in certain areas of their mouth at Dr Moraga's practice is consistently achieving experiencing complete relief from pain when biting down on a previously problematic tooth. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of needing a custom-fitted mouthguard for playing sports to properly protect their teeth and jaw from injury, Dr Moraga offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their old, failing crown being replaced with a new, perfectly fitting, and aesthetic restoration. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of feeling relief from chronic headaches that were linked to their TMJ or bruxism.

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

WESTMOUNT DENTAL CARE is situated in a central location within the Westmount neighborhood of Westmount. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. 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 Moraga at WESTMOUNT DENTAL CARE?

At your initial appointment, Dr Moraga and the team at WESTMOUNT DENTAL CARE 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 Moraga will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

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

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr Moraga will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, some patients may need visits 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. It is crucial to follow Dr Moraga's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

In Quebec, provincial health plans like the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) 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 usually paid out-of-pocket by patients, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It's essential to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment at WESTMOUNT DENTAL CARE.

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 only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr Moraga 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).

WESTMOUNT DENTAL CARE
420-1 Car Westmount
Westmount, QC, H3Z 2P9

Phone: (514) 937-3008

Dr. Patricia Cristina Moraga is a licensed Dentiste in QC, regulated by The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ) under the Code des professions & Loi sur les dentistes (Québec).

License Number: 11218

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ).

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