Dr. Stephen Howard Gaines – Dentist | Oakville, ON

Dr. Stephen Howard Gaines is a Dentist. Practicing at Sherwood Dental in Oakville, ON, Dr. Gaines is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Gaines 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. Gaines 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. Gaines 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 Sherwood Dental.

Dr. Stephen Howard Gaines earned a Dental Degree from University Of Michigan, graduating in 1997. With over 28 years of practice since 1997, Dr. Gaines has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Gaines is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Gaines remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technology, benefiting patients with the most effective and comfortable treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Gaines's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Gaines provides consultations in English.

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

Dental Pain Emergency

• 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): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Gaines. 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): Professional hygiene treatments to keep your oral health in optimal condition and prevent future dental problems.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Gentle and efficient extraction of problematic teeth when deemed necessary to maintain overall oral health, resolve infection, or alleviate persistent pain.
• Dental Sealants: Protective sealants for children and adolescents to safeguard vulnerable back teeth from decay.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Removable prosthetic solutions, including conventional and implant-retained options, to effectively replace missing teeth, thereby improving oral function, facial support, and overall appearance.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Addressing common issues with loose, uncomfortable, or damaged dentures to restore proper fit and patient satisfaction.

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

At Sherwood 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. Gaines frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing their partner mentioning that they snored very loudly or seemed to stop breathing momentarily during sleep (a possible sign of sleep apnea requiring a dental appliance referral), involves working systematically towards a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment. Dr. Gaines expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including no longer needing to cut food into tiny pieces or avoid certain textures due to dental problems.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Gaines when they first notice their child experiencing a dental emergency, such as a badly broken tooth or facial swelling. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their broken amalgam filling being safely removed and replaced with a modern restoration, enabling them to once again enjoy their TMJ comfort allowing them to yawn, laugh, and speak without restriction or pain without hesitation.
• Understanding the frustration a piece of an old, large amalgam (silver) filling breaking off, leaving a tooth vulnerable can cause, Dr. Gaines tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their child sleeping soundly again after a painful toothache was resolved, allowing for renewed participation in activities like maintaining a youthful appearance complemented by a healthy and attractive smile.
• Dr. Gaines expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of needing a thorough dental check-up and clearance before starting a major medical treatment or undergoing surgery (e.g., cardiac surgery, organ transplant, chemotherapy). A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their jaw feeling less stiff and more mobile after TMJ therapy or a custom oral appliance, means they can happily and comfortably get back to resuming hobbies that require concentration, now free from dental pain.

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

Sherwood Dental, where Dr. Gaines practices, is situated in the Old Oakville, Eastlake neighborhood of Oakville. The clinic is conveniently located near Glen Abbey Golf Club and is accessible via Oakville Transit. Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see a dental specialist (e.g., Orthodontist, Periodontist)?

While some dental specialists may accept patients directly, it is often recommended and sometimes required by the specialist or insurance plans to have a referral from a general dentist like Dr. Gaines. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Gaines identifies a need for specialist care,  he will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Check with the specific specialist’s office or your insurance if unsure.

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

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

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

Dr. Gaines 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, he 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.

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. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Gaines 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. Gaines at Sherwood Dental?

Your first visit with Dr. Gaines will typically involve a comprehensive dental examination. This includes 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. Gaines will discuss his findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if any care is needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Sherwood Dental directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Gaines.

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

Generally, every 6 months for most patients for preventative care. Dr. Gaines will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions (e.g., some 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). Follow Dr. Gaines’s specific recommendation.

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 or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

Sherwood Dental
2892 South Sheridan Way
Oakville, ON, L6J 7L4

Phone: (905) 829-1414

Dr. Stephen Howard Gaines 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: 13548

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=13548

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