Dr. Shirin M. Family – Dentist | Whitby, ON

Dr. Shirin M. Family is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at Avalon Dental Care in Whitby, ON, Dr. Family is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Family 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. Family 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. Family 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. Family 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 Avalon Dental Care.

Dr. Shirin M. Family earned a Dental Degree from Shahid Beheshti University, graduating in 1988. With over 27 years of practice since 1998, Dr. Family 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: Minimal Nitrous; N/A. Dr. Family is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.

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

Dr. Shirin M. Family 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

• 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.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Providing immediate care for teeth that have been knocked out (avulsed), dislodged, or fractured due to an accident or injury, aiming to save the tooth if possible.

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.

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.

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

• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): More involved tooth extractions that are beyond simple forceps removal, potentially including careful elevation of soft tissues for better visibility and access (for less complex surgical cases appropriate for a GP setting).
• 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.
• Porcelain Veneers & Lumineers: Application of ultra-thin, custom-made porcelain shells (veneers or minimal-prep Lumineers) bonded to the front surface of teeth to dramatically improve their shape, size, length, color, or to correct minor misalignments, chips, and gaps.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.

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

At Avalon 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. Family frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• At Dr. Family's clinic, addressing their current partial or full denture feeling very unstable, loose, or ill-fitting, making it difficult to eat or speak with confidence means focusing on patient goals. Achieving their recurrent canker sores becoming less frequent or less severe with management strategies helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed a desire to explore more permanent or stable options for replacing all of their missing teeth effectively with Dr. Family's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to achieving their dream smile through a well-planned and executed smile makeover and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy no longer needing to cut food into tiny pieces or avoid certain textures due to dental problems once more.
• Many people seek Dr. Family's professional help and expertise when dealing with a tooth that suddenly felt rough, had a sharp or jagged edge, or was causing irritation. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently their breath feeling consistently fresh and clean due to improved oral health, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to being able to eat in public restaurants without anxiety about their teeth or dentures.
• Overcoming or effectively managing their dentures frequently rubbing, causing persistent sore spots, or making it difficult to eat comfortably is a common journey for patients under Dr. Family's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling their lost filling or crown being promptly and durably replaced, protecting the tooth, so that daily routines and pleasures like enjoying the sensation of a clean, healthy mouth after every meal and hygiene routine become straightforward again.

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

Avalon Dental Care, where Dr. Family practices, is situated in the Williamsburg, Taunton North neighborhood of Whitby. The clinic is conveniently located near Port Whitby Marina and is accessible via Durham Region Transit (DRT). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

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

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Family will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any 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. Family's specific recommendation.

What payment options are available at Avalon Dental Care for dental services?

Payment is typically due at the time services are provided. Avalon Dental Care accepts cash, debit, Visa, and MasterCard. We are also experienced in handling claims for most private dental insurance plans. For details on payment plans for larger treatments, please speak with our administrative staff.

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

Yes, Dr. Family understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, Avalon Dental Care offers various sedation options. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Family during your consultation so that the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure can be determined.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Family 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, 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). Dr. Family also educates patients on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs.

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 taken only when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Family 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. Family at Avalon Dental Care?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Family and the team at Avalon Dental Care 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 you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Family will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great 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 performed in private dental clinics. 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). Always check the details of your private dental insurance and verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for before starting treatment.

Avalon Dental Care
910 Dundas St W #104
Whitby, ON, L1P 1P7

Phone: (905) 665-2353

Dr. Shirin M. Family 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: 13916

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=13916

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