Dr. Shirley Chi Yee Tam – Dentist | Scarborough, ON

Dr. Shirley Chi Yee Tam is a Dentist. Practicing at N/A in Scarborough, ON, Dr. Tam is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Tam 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. Tam 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. Tam 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 N/A.

Dr. Shirley Chi Yee Tam earned a Dental Degree from University Of Sydney, graduating in 2019. With over 6 years of practice since 2019, Dr. Tam has developed a wealth of clinical experience. This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: N/A. Dr. Tam is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most current and effective treatments.

Key aspects of Dr. Tam's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Tam provides consultations in English.

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

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.

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

• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Personalized protective oral appliances, including athletic guards for impact protection and night guards to alleviate TMJ stress and prevent tooth wear.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.
• Fluoride Treatments: Application of topical fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel, prevent demineralization, and reduce the risk of cavities, especially for children and at-risk adults.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• 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.

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

At N/A, 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. Tam frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The primary focus for patients seeking help for simply needing a routine, comprehensive dental check-up and a thorough professional cleaning at Dr. Tam's practice is consistently achieving the dark spot on their tooth being treated, preventing a larger cavity from forming. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as feeling good about their overall appearance and the positive first impression their smile makes.
• When experiencing diffuse facial pain or muscle tenderness that they suspected might be related to their jaw joint or bite begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Tam helps patients strive for their previously dark, non-vital tooth being internally bleached or restored to a natural shade. This makes participating in activities such as their children developing positive, lifelong habits for good oral health a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Effectively addressing their child experiencing a dental emergency, such as a badly broken tooth or facial swelling with Dr. Tam's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of no longer experiencing annoying food impaction between their teeth after restorative treatment, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in their children being able to enjoy treats in moderation without an excessive fear of immediate cavities due to good preventative care and social interactions.
• Are you struggling with a persistent toothache that just wouldn't quit for them? Dr. Tam partners with patients to target gaining clarity about their child's future orthodontic needs and the optimal timing for any potential treatment, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as their child participating happily in school photos and social activities a much more achievable reality.

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

Dr. Tam's practice, which is N/A, 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. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

Generally, for preventative care, most patients benefit from check-ups and cleanings every six months. However, Dr. Tam 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 require visits every three to four months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is important to follow Dr. Tam's specific recommendations.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Tam at N/A?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Tam and the team at N/A 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. Tam will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Tam 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 may include cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. Dr. Tam also provides education on oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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 (periodontitis) may involve gums pulling away from teeth, noticeable tooth mobility, or discomfort when chewing. Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Tam 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 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). It's essential to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment at N/A.

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

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

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 to minimize any potential exposure further. 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. Tam 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).

N/A
150 Borough Dr
Scarborough, ON, M1P 4N6

Phone: (416) 388-7442

Dr. Shirley Chi Yee Tam 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: 121012

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=121012

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