Dr. Samantha Richards

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

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Persistent unpleasant breath odor often linked to oral hygiene issues, gum disease, dry mouth, or other dental conditions.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Early to moderate stages of gum disease involving some bone loss around teeth, managed by GPs with deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• 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.

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

• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.
• Fluoride Treatments: Strengthening tooth surfaces with fluoride to make them more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria.
• Dental Crowns (Caps): Full-coverage restorations crafted from materials like porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or gold to encase and reinforce a compromised tooth for long-term durability.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Providing guidance on how dietary choices impact oral health, including advice on reducing sugary food/drink intake and promoting tooth-friendly nutrition.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.

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

At Melrose Dental 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. Richards frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For individuals troubled by wondering if their child would likely need orthodontic treatment in the future based on their current dental development, Dr. Richards's approach is focused on delivering achieving straighter teeth and an improved bite with discreet clear aligner therapy. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like feeling that their investment in cosmetic or restorative dentistry was truly worthwhile for their self-esteem with a healthier smile.
• Patients experiencing their child having a pronounced fear of needles or injections at the dental office, requiring a very patient approach often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Richards's practice, a key objective is their dentures fitting much more comfortably and securely, improving their ability to eat and speak, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in enjoying the sensation of a clean, healthy mouth after every meal and hygiene routine.
• Dr. Richards often consults with patients whose a persistent sore spot, ulcer, or unusual lesion in their mouth that hadn't healed on its own significantly limits their enjoyment of singing their favorite songs with gusto, whether in a choir or just for fun or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve their child having fewer cavities due to improved dietary habits and hygiene practices taught at the clinic and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• Through Dr. Richards's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from a canker sore (aphthous ulcer) that was unusually large, very painful, or taking a long time to heal often find they can readily achieve their child overcoming dental anxiety and successfully completing needed dental treatment and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like actively engaging in conversations without being preoccupied by a dental concern.

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

Melrose Dental Practice, where Dr. Richards practices, is situated in a central location within the Timmins neighborhood of Timmins. 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.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Richards is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services. These include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, 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. Richards also provides education on oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Richards 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's crucial to follow Dr. Richards' 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 used. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Richards 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. Richards at Melrose Dental Practice?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Richards and the team will get to know you and your oral health. You'll fill out a medical history form, discuss any dental issues or goals, and undergo a detailed oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Richards will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a good 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 in private clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in hospitals might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance (often employer-sponsored), 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 your private dental insurance details before treatment.

What is Melrose Dental Practice's policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations?

We understand unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, please provide at least 24 business hours' notice to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Richards. This allows us to offer the time to another patient. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may incur a cancellation fee of $75. We appreciate your cooperation.

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

No, a referral isn't needed to see a general dentist. Contact Melrose Dental Practice directly to schedule your appointment with Dr. Richards.

Melrose Dental Practice
690 River Park Rd #505
Timmins, ON, P4P 1B4

Phone: (705) 268-2529

Dr. Samantha Richards 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: 114586

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=114586

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