Dr. Sharmila Sayanthan – Dentist | Scarborough, ON

Dr. Sharmila Sayanthan is a Dentist. Practicing at M M Dental in Scarborough, ON, Dr. Sayanthan is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Sayanthan 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. Sayanthan 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. Sayanthan 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 M M Dental.

Dr. Sharmila Sayanthan earned a Dental Degree from Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, graduating in 2005. With over 9 years of practice since 2016, Dr. Sayanthan has cultivated a wealth of clinical experience. Dr. Sayanthan is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Sayanthan's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Sayanthan provides consultations in English.

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

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Emergency management of traumatic dental injuries to maximize the chances of successful reimplantation or repair.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• 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.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.

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. Sayanthan. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.
• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Conservative and durable restorations used to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage that is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a full coverage crown.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Educating patients on the importance of gum health and the steps they can take to maintain healthy periodontal tissues for life.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.

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

At M M 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. Sayanthan frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Sayanthan understands that dealing with feeling like food consistently and annoyingly got stuck between certain teeth after meals can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism, helping patients comfortably get back to their child actively participating in preventative dental care and understanding its importance and feeling their best.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Sayanthan about needing a thorough dental check-up and clearance before starting a major medical treatment or undergoing surgery (e.g., cardiac surgery, organ transplant, chemotherapy) is to attain their dentures fitting much more comfortably and securely, improving their ability to eat and speak. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like feeling more outgoing and engaging in conversations more readily.
• Managing recognizing the need for a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) because it had been a significant time since their last professional hygiene visit effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Sayanthan and the dental team. The clear aim is always their receding gums being stabilized or treated, protecting their tooth roots, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying getting a full night's sleep without being woken up by a throbbing toothache or jaw pain and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• Overcoming or effectively managing an old silver amalgam filling looking dark, unsightly, or potentially failing is a common journey for patients under Dr. Sayanthan's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling a noticeable improvement or elimination of persistent bad taste in their mouth, so that daily routines and pleasures like showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion become straightforward again.

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

M M Dental, where Dr. Sayanthan practices, is situated in a central location within the Scarborough neighborhood of Scarborough. 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. Sayanthan typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Sayanthan 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, dental sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may offer cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. They also educate patients on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Sayanthan 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 more frequent visits (e.g., 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's essential to follow Dr. Sayanthan's specific recommendations.

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 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 provided by employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). Check your eligibility for any potential public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Sayanthan for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with M M Dental.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Sayanthan at M M Dental?

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive dental examination, including a review of your medical and dental history, a thorough check of your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues (including an oral cancer screening), and any necessary X-rays. Dr. Sayanthan will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed or scheduled.

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

Common signs of gum disease include gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing, gums that appear red or puffy, or gums that feel sore. Persistent bad taste or bad breath can also be a sign. More advanced gum disease may involve gums pulling away from teeth, noticeable tooth mobility, or discomfort when chewing. Regular check-ups are crucial for early detection and treatment.

What are dental implants, and how do I know if I'm a suitable candidate?

Dental implants are small, titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth. Good candidates generally have healthy gums, adequate jawbone density, and are in good overall health. Dr. Sayanthan can perform a comprehensive assessment to evaluate your suitability.

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. Sayanthan will determine the frequency based on your individual needs and risk factors.

M M Dental
3480 Lawrence Ave E #A007
Scarborough, ON, M1H 1A9

Phone: (416) 431-1371

Dr. Sharmila Sayanthan 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: 110632

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=110632

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