Dr. Safa Shawkat – Dentist | Oakville, ON

Dr. Safa Shawkat is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at SmileDesign Dental Care in Oakville, ON, Dr. Shawkat is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Shawkat 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. Shawkat 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. Shawkat 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. Shawkat 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 SmileDesign Dental Care.

Dr. Safa Shawkat earned a Dental Degree from University Of Jordan, graduating in 2007. With over 13 years of practice since 2012, Dr. Shawkat 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. Shawkat is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Shawkat's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Shawkat provides consultations in English.

Dr. Safa Shawkat 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

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.

Gag Reflex Management

• Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Looking for a dentist experienced in specific techniques and approaches to help patients with sensitive gag reflexes receive comfortable and effective treatment.

Extensive Dental Treatment Needs

• Requiring Multiple or Lengthy Dental Procedures: Needing several dental treatments, complex procedures, or a particularly long single procedure, for which sedation might be beneficial for patient comfort, cooperation, and treatment efficiency.

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

• 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.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Routine removal of teeth that are severely decayed, extensively damaged beyond restoration, very mobile due to advanced gum disease, or for orthodontic purposes, performed under local anesthesia when the tooth is fully erupted and easily accessible.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Replacing one or more missing teeth with a fixed (non-removable) dental bridge, typically anchored to adjacent natural teeth (abutments) or dental implants, to restore chewing function, maintain tooth alignment, and improve smile aesthetics.
• Gum Contouring / Gingival Reshaping (Cosmetic Periodontal Plastic Surgery): Cosmetic gum procedures, sometimes using dental lasers or traditional surgical techniques, to precisely reshape an uneven or excessive gum line (gummy smile) or to correct minor gum recession for improved smile aesthetics and tooth proportions.
• Dental Sealants: A simple and effective preventative measure to reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth.

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

At SmileDesign Dental Care, 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. Shawkat frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients frequently come to Dr. Shawkat with concerns about a tooth that suddenly became extremely and uncharacteristically sensitive to cold water or air, causing sharp pain. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve their lost filling or crown being promptly and durably replaced, protecting the tooth, making a positive and lasting return to resuming hobbies that require concentration, now free from dental pain not just possible, but highly feasible.
• If a child in their care who had special healthcare needs (physical, cognitive, or behavioral) and required a particularly patient, understanding, and accommodating dental provider is preventing you from fully enjoying enjoying romantic moments without self-consciousness about their breath or smile or causing discomfort, Dr. Shawkat offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve feeling confident that their gum health is being actively maintained, preventing future problems through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• Understanding the frustration concerns about grinding their teeth so forcefully or frequently that their jaw muscles ached or they experienced morning headaches can cause, Dr. Shawkat tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment, allowing for renewed participation in activities like sleeping peacefully without the interruption of dental pain or discomfort from oral appliances.
• At Dr. Shawkat's clinic, addressing 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) means focusing on patient goals. Achieving their teeth feeling more stable and their bite more aligned after corrective treatment helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to attending social events and family dinners without worrying about denture stability or food getting trapped.

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

SmileDesign Dental Care, where Dr. Shawkat practices, is situated in the Kerr Village, Glen Abbey East neighborhood of Oakville. The clinic is conveniently located near Downtown Oakville and is accessible via Oakville Transit. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

For most adults and children, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Shawkat 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 might need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months), while patients with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Shawkat'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 necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Shawkat will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, following guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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 in private clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in hospitals may be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance (often from employers), or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). Check your eligibility for public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details before treatment.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Shawkat at SmileDesign Dental Care?

At your first appointment, expect to complete a medical history form, discuss your dental concerns and goals, and undergo a thorough oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Shawkat will then explain their findings and recommend any necessary treatments. It's a great opportunity to ask questions.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Shawkat provides primary dental care for all ages. Services typically include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on simpler teeth), simple extractions, initial gum disease management, and possibly cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also provide oral hygiene education and refer to specialists for complex needs. Dr. Shawkat may offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options based on additional training.

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

No, you generally don't need a referral to see a general dentist for check-ups, cleanings, or consultations. You can book an appointment directly with SmileDesign Dental Care.

SmileDesign Dental Care
205 Lakeshore Rd W
Oakville, ON, L6K 0H8

Phone: (905) 582-8558

Dr. Safa Shawkat 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: 93131

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=93131

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