Dr. Peter John Bellingham – Dentist | Mississauga, ON

Dr. Peter John Bellingham is a Endodontist. Practicing at Rockwood Dental in Mississauga, ON, Dr. Bellingham is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Bellingham 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 Endodontics, Dr. Bellingham is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries of the dental pulp (nerve) and periradicular tissues (tissues surrounding the root of a tooth). Primary services include complex root canal therapy, retreatment of previous root canals, endodontic surgery (apicoectomy), and management of traumatic dental injuries. Dr. Bellingham 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 Rockwood Dental.

Dr. Peter John Bellingham earned a Dental Degree from Harvard University, graduating in 2008. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Endodontist at the University of Maryland at Baltimore in 2011. With over 14 years of practice since 2011, Dr. Bellingham has developed extensive clinical experience. Additionally, this specialist holds certifications/authorizations for: Minimal Nitrous Oxide/Oral Sedation. Dr. Bellingham is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Bellingham's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Bellingham provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Endodontics, Dr. Peter John Bellingham addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Tooth Trauma Endo

• Traumatic Injury to Teeth Involving Pulp Exposure or Root Damage: Dental injuries sustained from accidents (e.g., falls, sports impacts, collisions) resulting in complicated crown fractures (exposing the pulp), root fractures, significant tooth displacement (luxations), or complete avulsion (knocked-out tooth) that require specialist endodontic assessment and complex treatment to manage pulpal and periradicular consequences.

Complex Root Canal Needs

• Need for Complex Root Canal Retreatment or Endodontic Surgery (Apicoectomy): Addressing complex endodontic problems that necessitate specialized techniques such as microscopic endodontics, advanced irrigation protocols, or surgical approaches to achieve a favorable outcome and save the tooth.

Pulpal Root Canal Issues

• Severe Tooth Pain, Dental Abscess, or Suspected Need for Root Canal Therapy: Seeking urgent dental care for relief from severe dental pain and treatment to save an infected or abscessed tooth from extraction.

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

• Complex Root Canal Therapy & Retreatment (Specialist Level): Expertise in handling complex endodontic situations beyond the scope of general practice.
• Advanced Endodontic Diagnostic Testing (Pulp Vitality, CBCT): In-depth evaluation using state-of-the-art technology for precise endodontic diagnosis.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Utilizing advanced digital X-ray technology (e.g., bitewings, periapicals, panoramic X-rays) for safe and precise diagnosis of dental conditions.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Proactive examinations as part of your check-up to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.
• Management of Traumatic Dental Injuries to Pulp & Roots: Specialized care for teeth that have suffered injury, aiming to preserve vitality and function.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Endodontics, Dr. Bellingham is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Rockwood Dental, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Understanding the frustration a new or changing bump, swelling, or unusual growth on their gums or oral tissues that they were worried about can cause, Dr. Bellingham tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve finally addressing a long-standing dental problem, leading to improved oral health and comfort, allowing for renewed participation in activities like feeling refreshed and confident with consistently fresh breath throughout the day.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Bellingham to see patients who were troubled by persistent bad breath (halitosis) that didn't seem to improve despite good hygiene successfully achieve their extensive dental work being completed efficiently and comfortably, often with the help of sedation. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like easily flossing and brushing without encountering pain or bleeding from their gums.
• If a wisdom tooth starting to cause significant pain, pressure, or signs of infection is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Bellingham develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their child having fewer cavities due to improved dietary habits and hygiene practices taught at the clinic. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy confidently recommending their dentist, {preferred_name}, to friends and family based on their positive experiences.
• Dr. Bellingham understands that dealing with a dental issue, such as misaligned or discolored teeth, that was significantly affecting their confidence to smile openly and interact socially can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving achieving their dream smile through a well-planned and executed smile makeover, helping patients comfortably get back to their dentures feeling so secure they almost forget they are wearing them and feeling their best.

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

Rockwood Dental, where Dr. Bellingham practices, is situated in the Gateway, Hurontario Business Parks neighborhood of Mississauga. The clinic is conveniently located near Sheridan College Hazel McCallion Campus and is accessible via MiWay (Mississauga Transit). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Bellingham at Rockwood Dental?

Your first visit with Dr. Bellingham 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. Bellingham 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.

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 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. Bellingham 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).

Why is it important to try and save a tooth with root canal treatment by an Endodontist like Dr. Bellingham, instead of just extracting it?

Saving a natural tooth with endodontic treatment is usually the best option because it maintains natural chewing function, normal biting force, and natural appearance. It also prevents adjacent teeth from shifting, which can lead to other dental problems. Replacing an extracted tooth with a bridge or implant can be more complex and costly in the long run.

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. Patients should verify any potential public coverage they might be eligible for and check their private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

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

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Bellingham will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits, while others might have slightly longer intervals between appointments.

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

While some dental specialists may accept patients directly, it is often recommended, and sometimes required, to have a referral from a general dentist. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Bellingham identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral.

I experience jaw pain, clicking, and headaches. Can Dr. Bellingham help with TMJ/TMD issues?

Dr. Bellingham can perform an initial assessment of your jaw pain and related symptoms. Depending on the findings and complexity, they may offer some conservative management advice or provide a referral to a dentist or specialist with advanced training in TMJ disorders if more specialized care is indicated.

Rockwood Dental
4141 Dixie Rd #22B
Mississauga, ON, L4W 1V5

Phone: (905) 624-8917

Dr. Peter John Bellingham is a licensed Endodontist 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: 84932

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=84932

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