Dr. Sarah Anne Pratt – Dentist | Blenheim, ON

Dr. Sarah Anne Pratt is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at South Kent Dental in Blenheim, ON, Dr. Pratt is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Pratt 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. Pratt 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. Pratt 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. Pratt 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 South Kent Dental.

Dr. Sarah Anne Pratt earned a Dental Degree from University Of Western Ontario, graduating in 2019. With over 6 years of practice since 2019, Dr. Pratt 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. Pratt is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Pratt's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Pratt provides consultations in English.

Dr. Sarah Anne Pratt 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

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.

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.

Dental Anxiety Phobia

• Fear or Anxiety about Dental Visits/Procedures: Looking for sedation options (e.g., nitrous oxide, oral sedation, IV sedation) or other strategies to manage anxiety during dental care.
• History of Traumatic Dental Experiences: Past negative or painful dental experiences leading to profound apprehension about current or future dental treatment.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.

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

• Oral Conscious Sedation (Anxiolysis): Prescribing specific oral sedative medication (e.g., a benzodiazepine) to be taken shortly before dental appointments to induce a state of conscious relaxation and significantly reduce anxiety for patients undergoing more extensive, lengthy, or potentially stressful procedures.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Providing custom-made night guards (occlusal splints) to protect teeth from the effects of nocturnal bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching).
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Custom-crafted bridges providing a stable, functional, and natural-looking replacement for lost teeth, preventing shifting of remaining teeth.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Dedicated time to review diagnostic findings, explain recommended procedures, and collaboratively create a dental care strategy that meets your needs and goals.

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

At South Kent Dental, 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. Pratt frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• If their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession is preventing you from fully enjoying singing their favorite songs with gusto, whether in a choir or just for fun or causing discomfort, Dr. Pratt offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve their chipped or broken tooth being beautifully restored to its natural shape and function through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• Understanding the frustration a piece of an old, large amalgam (silver) filling breaking off, leaving a tooth vulnerable can cause, Dr. Pratt tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their child's dental emergency being handled swiftly and compassionately, minimizing distress, allowing for renewed participation in activities like confidently eating sticky or chewy foods without fear of dislodging restorations or dentures.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Pratt to see patients who were troubled by a persistent and unexplained bad taste in their mouth, even after brushing successfully achieve feeling refreshed and clean after a thorough professional dental cleaning and check-up. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like experiencing the simple joy of a pain-free mouth every day.
• If a tooth that felt 'high' or uncomfortable after a recent dental filling, affecting their bite is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Pratt develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at a tooth that had become painfully sensitive to sweet foods now feeling completely normal and comfortable. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy no longer needing to cut food into tiny pieces or avoid certain textures due to dental problems.

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

South Kent Dental, where Dr. Pratt practices, is situated in a central location within the Blenheim neighborhood of Blenheim. 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. Pratt for a check-up and cleaning?

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Pratt will personalize your schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months) if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between appointments. It is essential to follow Dr. Pratt's specific recommendations for your optimal oral health.

What are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?

Be aware of gums that bleed easily during oral hygiene, appear red or puffy, or feel sore, as these are common indicators of gingivitis. Persistent bad taste or bad breath can also be a sign. More advanced gum disease (periodontitis) may involve gums pulling away from teeth, noticeable tooth mobility, or discomfort when chewing. Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Pratt are crucial for early detection and effective treatment.

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, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It's crucial to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before treatment at South Kent Dental.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Pratt at South Kent Dental?

At your first appointment, Dr. Pratt and the team will get to know you and your oral health. You'll fill out a medical history form, discuss any dental concerns or goals, and undergo a thorough oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Pratt will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great opportunity to ask questions.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Pratt is your primary dental care provider, 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 potentially cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. Pratt may offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options based on additional training.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, especially modern digital X-rays using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Pratt will determine the frequency based on your individual needs and history, following guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

I'm very anxious about dental visits. Does Dr. Pratt offer any sedation options?

Yes, Dr. Pratt understands dental anxiety. South Kent Dental may offer various sedation options to help you relax. These may include nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on Dr. Pratt's qualifications and your needs. Please discuss your anxiety with Dr. Pratt during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest approach.

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

No, you generally don't need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Pratt for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can book an appointment directly with South Kent Dental.

South Kent Dental
51 Ellen St Box 579
Blenheim, ON, N0P 1A0

Phone: (519) 676-4700

Dr. Sarah Anne Pratt 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: 120248

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=120248

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