Dr. Peter Dwight Shillingford – Dentist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Peter Dwight Shillingford is a Dentist. Practicing at Dr. P. Shillingford & Associates in Toronto, ON, Dr. Shillingford is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Shillingford 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. Shillingford 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. Shillingford 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 Dr. P. Shillingford & Associates.

Dr. Peter Dwight Shillingford earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 1985. With over 40 years of practice since 1985, Dr. Shillingford's extensive clinical experience has provided them with a deep understanding of diverse dental needs. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: N/A. Dr. Shillingford is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most effective and modern treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Shillingford's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Shillingford provides consultations in English.

Dr. Peter Dwight Shillingford 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

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Early to moderate stages of gum disease involving some bone loss around teeth, managed by GPs with deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance.

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.

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

• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Comprehensive advice on preventing gum inflammation and infection for lifelong oral health and overall well-being.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Providing guidance on how dietary choices impact oral health, including advice on reducing sugary food/drink intake and promoting tooth-friendly nutrition.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Customized full and partial dentures, carefully crafted to help patients regain confidence in their smile, ability to eat a varied diet, and speak clearly.
• Fluoride Treatments: Strengthening tooth surfaces with fluoride to make them more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria.

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

At Dr. P. Shillingford & Associates, 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. Shillingford frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When patients discuss a dental issue, such as misaligned or discolored teeth, that was significantly affecting their confidence to smile openly and interact socially, Dr. Shillingford outlines a path to gaining a clear understanding of their child's orthodontic needs and the available treatment options, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably feeling relief from chronic headaches that were linked to their TMJ or bruxism.
• When feeling self-conscious about the stained or yellowish appearance of their teeth starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to easily maintaining their daily oral hygiene routine without experiencing bleeding or pain, Dr. Shillingford and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their dentures no longer causing sore spots, allowing them to eat and speak with ease and a return to comfort and confidence.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for an old silver amalgam filling looking dark, unsightly, or potentially failing at Dr. Shillingford's practice is consistently achieving the dark spot on their tooth being treated, preventing a larger cavity from forming. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as their overall facial aesthetics being enhanced by well-planned dental and/or facial esthetic treatments.
• Patients presenting with their child having a severe toothache that kept them up at night and required immediate attention can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their toothache being completely resolved, allowing them to eat and sleep comfortably again under Dr. Shillingford's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume attending social events and family dinners without worrying about denture stability or food getting trapped without the former limitations or discomfort.

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

Dr. P. Shillingford & Associates is situated in the Regent Park, Harbourfront East neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Polson Pier and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Shillingford 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 might need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals. It's crucial to follow Dr. Shillingford's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

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 always used. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Shillingford 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 should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Shillingford at Dr. P. Shillingford & Associates?

Your first visit with Dr. Shillingford 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. Shillingford 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.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Dr. P. Shillingford & Associates directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Shillingford.

What services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Shillingford typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Shillingford 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, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer 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 through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is important 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.

Dr. P. Shillingford & Associates
470 Parliament St
Toronto, ON, M5A 3A3

Phone: (416) 923-7492

Dr. Peter Dwight Shillingford 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: 10422

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=10422

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