Dr. Ricardo L. Molano – Dentist | Fort McMurray, AB

Dr. Ricardo L. Molano is a Dentist (Facial Esthetic Injectables). Practicing at a dentist practice in Fort McMurray, AB, Dr. Molano is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Molano is licensed by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in AB. Dr. Molano 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. Molano also offers facial esthetic treatments using therapeutic neuromodulators (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin® for bruxism, TMJ pain, or cosmetic enhancement of the upper face such as frown lines and crow's feet) and/or dermal fillers to complement dental aesthetics, address facial harmony, and rejuvenate facial appearance, based on their specific certified training levels. Dr. Molano provides comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and management for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, bruxism (teeth clenching and grinding), and related orofacial pain conditions (such as myofascial pain). Treatment approaches are often conservative and non-surgical, potentially including occlusal splints (night guards), patient education, therapeutic exercises, and, if certified, the use of neuromodulators for muscle relaxation or pain relief. Dr. Molano 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 the clinic.

Dr. Ricardo L. Molano earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Molano brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Molano offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with a Focus on TMJ, Bruxism & Orofacial Pain Management and General Dentistry with Facial Esthetic Services (Neuromodulators & Dermal Fillers). Dr. Molano is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Molano's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; 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. Dr. Molano provides consultations in English.

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

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): 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.

Orofacial Pain Conditions

• Chronic Headaches Potentially Linked to Dental Issues (e.g., TMJ Dysfunction, Severe Bruxism, Malocclusion): Persistent or recurrent headaches (e.g., tension-type headaches, morning headaches) that may be linked to underlying dental problems such as jaw clenching, severe teeth grinding (bruxism), temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, or significant bite issues (malocclusion).
• Myofascial Pain & Dysfunction in Head, Neck, or Jaw Region: Managing chronic pain originating from muscle overuse, strain, or dysfunction in the orofacial and cervical regions.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.

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

• Dental Sealants: Protective sealants for children and adolescents to safeguard vulnerable back teeth from decay.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.
• 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.
• Dental Bonding (Composite Resin Veneers/Restorations): Artistic application and sculpting of tooth-coloured composite resin directly onto teeth to repair chips, close small gaps (diastemas), improve tooth shape, lengthen teeth, or cover discolouration, typically completed in a single dental visit.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Molano. 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. Ricardo L. Molano adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

At Dr. Ricardo L. Molano's practice, 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. Molano frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Molano's comprehensive care for an old dental bridge that felt loose, uncomfortable, or was showing signs of wear and tear is meticulously designed to result in their jaw feeling less stiff and more mobile after TMJ therapy or a custom oral appliance. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as feeling good about their overall appearance and the positive first impression their smile makes without dental worries.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Molano with concerns about a desire for a more permanent, comfortable, and functional solution than their current removable partial denture. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve the bump or swelling on their gums being diagnosed and appropriately treated, resolving their worry, making a positive and lasting return to enjoying a cold ice cream or a hot cup of coffee without wincing from tooth sensitivity not just possible, but highly feasible.
• Patients presenting with wondering if their child would likely need orthodontic treatment in the future based on their current dental development can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their child's dental emergency being handled swiftly and compassionately, minimizing distress under Dr. Molano's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume passing on good oral hygiene habits and a positive attitude towards dental care to their children without the former limitations or discomfort.
• At Dr. Molano's clinic, addressing their child having a pronounced fear of needles or injections at the dental office, requiring a very patient approach means focusing on patient goals. Achieving the dark spot on their tooth being treated, preventing a larger cavity from forming helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to knowing their teeth are well-protected from decay and damage.

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

Dr. Molano's practice, a dental office in Fort McMurray, is situated in a central location within the Fort McMurray neighborhood of Fort McMurray. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

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

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 taken only when diagnostically necessary, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Molano 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 services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Molano typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Molano is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services including 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 if offered). Dr. Molano also educates patients on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. Molano may offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with a Focus on TMJ, Bruxism & Orofacial Pain Management based on additional training.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Molano will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and 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 health might have slightly longer intervals. It is important to follow Dr. Molano's specific recommendation.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

In Alberta, provincial health plans like the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) 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 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 might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Molano at the clinic?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Molano and the team 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, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Based on this, Dr. Molano will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

#3, 101 Signal Road, Thickwood Shopping Plaza
Fort McMurray, AB, T9H 4N6

Phone: (780) 791-7737

Dr. Ricardo L. Molano is a licensed Dentist in AB, regulated by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) under the Health Professions Act (Alberta).

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

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