Dr. Raymond Lam – Dentist | Pembroke, ON

Dr. Raymond Lam is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at Dr. Christy Natsis and Associates in Pembroke, ON, Dr. Lam is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Lam 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. Lam 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. Lam also provides comprehensive general dental care with various certified levels of sedation (such as nitrous oxide/'laughing gas', oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on specific qualifications) to help anxious patients, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals undergoing extensive procedures feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable throughout their dental treatment. Dr. Lam 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. Christy Natsis and Associates.

Dr. Raymond Lam earned a Dental Degree from University Of Western Ontario, graduating in 2017. With over 8 years of practice since 2017, Dr. Lam offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: N/A. Dr. Lam is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Lam's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Lam provides consultations in English.

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

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Specialized considerations for dental treatment in pediatric patients with underlying illnesses.
• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Requiring specialized dental management and a tailored care approach for children and adolescents with underlying medical conditions (e.g., congenital heart disease, bleeding disorders, immunocompromise), physical disabilities (e.g., cerebral palsy), cognitive or developmental challenges (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome), or significant behavioral issues that make routine dental treatment difficult.

Gag Reflex Management

• Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Experiencing a hyperactive or severe gag reflex that significantly interferes with routine dental examinations, X-rays, impressions, or treatments.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Addressing broken or cracked teeth to restore their form, function, and prevent infection.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.

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

• Fluoride Treatments: Professional fluoride therapy to help protect your teeth against decay and enhance remineralization.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.
• Porcelain Veneers & Lumineers: Artistic cosmetic restorations designed to conceal a variety of dental imperfections like chips, gaps, severe stains, or misshapen teeth, creating a harmonious smile.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Fostering informed decision-making through comprehensive patient education about their dental health status and available treatment pathways.
• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Durable and precisely fitting partial crowns designed to preserve more natural tooth structure while effectively repairing significant decay or fractures on the chewing surfaces.

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

At Dr. Christy Natsis and 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. Lam frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Many people seek Dr. Lam's professional help and expertise when dealing with a persistent sore spot, ulcer, or unusual lesion in their mouth that hadn't healed on its own. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently feeling confident in their ability to maintain excellent oral hygiene at home with improved techniques, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to being able to focus on their passions and pursuits without the constant background noise of dental issues.
• When patients discuss a tooth that suddenly felt rough, had a sharp or jagged edge, or was causing irritation, Dr. Lam outlines a path to their jaw feeling less stiff and more mobile after TMJ therapy or a custom oral appliance, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably enjoying the peace of mind that comes with a healthy, well-maintained mouth.
• For patients where a tooth that felt 'high' or uncomfortable after a recent dental filling, affecting their bite is a primary concern, Dr. Lam focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in their infected tooth being successfully saved from extraction through root canal treatment. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully easily flossing and brushing without encountering pain or bleeding from their gums.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing a noticeable gap between their front teeth that they had always wished to close, involves working systematically towards being able to enjoy a wider variety of foods without pain or difficulty chewing. Dr. Lam expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including their ability to enunciate words clearly for better communication.

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

Dr. Lam's practice, Dr. Christy Natsis and Associates, is situated in a central location within the Pembroke neighborhood of Pembroke. 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.

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

For most adults and children, check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months for optimal preventative care. However, Dr. Lam will personalize your schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, those managing active gum disease or at high risk for cavities may need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months), while patients with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Lam's specific recommendations.

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 only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Lam 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. Lam at Dr. Christy Natsis and Associates?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Lam and the team at Dr. Christy Natsis and Associates 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. Lam 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 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). Check your eligibility for any public coverage and review your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

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

Dr. Christy Natsis and Associates
925 Pembroke St E Suite A
Pembroke, ON, K8A 3M3

Phone: (613) 732-8522

Dr. Raymond Lam 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: 113512

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=113512

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