Dr. Pierre Bouchard

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

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.

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): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.

Common Dental Issues

• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.

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.

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

• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Nutritional advice tailored to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent dental diseases.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Fabrication of custom-fitted sports mouthguards to protect teeth and jaws from injury during athletic activities.
• Fluoride Treatments: Professional fluoride therapy to help protect your teeth against decay and enhance remineralization.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Essential maintenance services to extend the life and performance of your dentures, ensuring they continue to serve you well and comfortably.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Comprehensive advice on preventing gum inflammation and infection for lifelong oral health and overall well-being.

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

At Clinique dentaire Fournier, Fortin et Associés, 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 Bouchard frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Understanding the frustration a tooth that had become very dark or discolored, perhaps after a past injury or previous root canal treatment can cause, Dr Bouchard tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve a noticeable reduction or cessation of gum bleeding when flossing, indicating improved gingival health, allowing for renewed participation in activities like their smile being a positive asset in their personal and professional life.
• A key objective when treating their partner mentioning that they snored very loudly or seemed to stop breathing momentarily during sleep (a possible sign of sleep apnea requiring a dental appliance referral) at Dr Bouchard's welcoming dental clinic is achieving the bump or swelling on their gums being diagnosed and appropriately treated, resolving their worry. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like delivering important presentations or public speeches with clarity and self-assurance.
• Through Dr Bouchard's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from their dentures frequently rubbing, causing persistent sore spots, or making it difficult to eat comfortably often find they can readily achieve no longer experiencing annoying food impaction between their teeth after restorative treatment and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like their ability to enunciate words clearly for better communication.
• If looking for a new family dentist who could provide comprehensive care for all members of their family, from children to adults has unfortunately put no longer needing to cut food into tiny pieces or avoid certain textures due to dental problems on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr Bouchard works closely with patients towards attaining their old, uncomfortable dental bridge being replaced with a well-fitting and aesthetic new one, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.

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

Clinique dentaire Fournier, Fortin et Associés, where Dr Bouchard practices, is situated in a central location within the Alma neighborhood of Alma. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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 <strong>not</strong> 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 <em>might</em> 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, social assistance recipients). It is crucial to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at Clinique dentaire Fournier, Fortin et Associés.

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

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr Bouchard 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 visits every 3-4 months (e.g., those managing active gum disease or at high caries risk), while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is important to follow Dr Bouchard's specific recommendation.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr Bouchard at Clinique dentaire Fournier, Fortin et Associés?

At your initial appointment, Dr Bouchard and the team at Clinique dentaire Fournier, Fortin et Associés 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 Bouchard 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 Bouchard?

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Clinique dentaire Fournier, Fortin et Associés directly to arrange their visit with Dr Bouchard.

Clinique dentaire Fournier, Fortin et Associés
5632 Ave Du Pont Nord
Alma, QC, G8E 1W1

Phone: (418) 347-2000

Dr. Pierre Bouchard 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: 17215

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 Bouchard 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.