Dr. Stephanie Nicole Melnik – Dentist | Thunder Bay, ON

Dr. Stephanie Nicole Melnik is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at N/A in Thunder Bay, ON, Dr. Melnik is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Melnik 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. Melnik 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. Melnik 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. Stephanie Nicole Melnik earned a Dental Degree from University Of Alberta, graduating in 2015. With over 3 years of practice since 2022, Dr. Melnik 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. Melnik is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. Dr. Melnik 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.

Key aspects of Dr. Melnik's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Melnik provides consultations in English.

Dr. Stephanie Nicole Melnik 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

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Specialized considerations for dental treatment in pediatric patients with underlying illnesses.
• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Customized dental approaches to accommodate children with diverse health backgrounds, sensory sensitivities, and varying levels of cooperation, ensuring they receive optimal oral healthcare in a supportive and appropriately adapted setting.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.

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

• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Comprehensive dental imaging services, including panoramic and intraoral X-rays, to aid in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
• Dental Sealants: Protective sealants for children and adolescents to safeguard vulnerable back teeth from decay.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Metal-free white fillings to restore tooth structure, function, and maintain a natural, healthy-looking smile.
• 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).

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Melnik. 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. Stephanie Nicole Melnik 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. Melnik frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When a tooth that had become very dark or discolored, perhaps after a past injury or previous root canal treatment begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Melnik helps patients strive for their gums looking pink and healthy again after treatment for gingivitis or early gum disease. This makes participating in activities such as concentrating fully on their work or studies without the distraction of dental discomfort a pleasant and possible experience again.
• With Dr. Melnik's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing concerns about grinding their teeth so forcefully or frequently that their jaw muscles ached or they experienced morning headaches is focused on achieving their teeth and gums feeling exceptionally clean and healthy after a necessary deep cleaning procedure. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to getting a full night's sleep without being woken up by a throbbing toothache or jaw pain without dental concerns.
• If wondering if their child's teeth were erupting in the correct sequence and alignment for their age has unfortunately put easily maintaining their daily oral hygiene routine without experiencing bleeding or pain on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Melnik works closely with patients towards attaining their slightly crooked front teeth being straightened effectively with a conservative cosmetic option, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• Through Dr. Melnik's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession often find they can readily achieve feeling a renewed sense of confidence in their smile and overall appearance and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like sleeping peacefully without the interruption of dental pain or discomfort from oral appliances.

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

Dr. Melnik's practice, which is N/A, is situated in the Port Arthur Central (Downtown North Core, Waterfront area) neighborhood of Thunder Bay. The clinic is conveniently located near Thunder Bay International Airport (YQT) and is accessible via Thunder Bay Transit. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

What cosmetic dentistry options might Dr. Melnik offer to improve the appearance of my smile?

Dr. Melnik focuses on comprehensive general dentistry for overall oral health. While many restorative procedures also have excellent aesthetic outcomes, if you have specific advanced cosmetic concerns, they can discuss basic aesthetic improvements available or provide a referral to a dentist specializing in cosmetic procedures or a prosthodontist if more advanced treatment is desired.

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

Yes, Dr. Melnik understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, N/A may offer various sedation options. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Melnik during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Melnik is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services including: 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 if offered). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Melnik 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. Melnik 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 ON, 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 through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Melnik will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions. Follow Dr. Melnik's specific recommendation.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Melnik 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 using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary. Dr. Melnik 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
1170 Oliver Rd
Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 7A4

Phone: (807) 623-1707

Dr. Stephanie Nicole Melnik 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: 501490

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=501490

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