Dr. Stephen Lyal Douglas Carlson – Dentist | Thunder Bay, ON

Dr. Stephen Lyal Douglas Carlson is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at Birch Point Dental Clinic in Thunder Bay, ON, Dr. Carlson is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Carlson 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. Carlson 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. Carlson 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. Carlson 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 Birch Point Dental Clinic.

Dr. Stephen Lyal Douglas Carlson earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 2020. With over 5 years of practice since 2020, Dr. Carlson 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. Carlson is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Carlson's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Carlson provides consultations in English.

Dr. Stephen Lyal Douglas Carlson 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

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.

Dental Anxiety Phobia

• Fear or Anxiety about Dental Visits/Procedures: Seeking a dental environment and care approach that is understanding, patient, and supportive of dental fears.
• History of Traumatic Dental Experiences: Seeking a compassionate, gentle, and communicative approach to dental care due to previous trauma.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Seeking a dental provider experienced in managing the oral health of children with complex medical histories.
• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Requiring specialized dental management and a tailored care approach for children and adolescents with underlying medical conditions (e.g., congenital heart disease, bleeding disorders, immunocompromise), physical disabilities (e.g., cerebral palsy), cognitive or developmental challenges (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome), or significant behavioral issues that make routine dental treatment difficult.

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

• Dental Bonding (Composite Resin Veneers/Restorations): A conservative and versatile cosmetic procedure to quickly and effectively enhance your smile's appearance using direct composite bonding techniques.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Providing necessary adjustments, repairs (e.g., for cracks or broken teeth), and relines (to improve fit due to gum shrinkage) for existing dentures to enhance comfort, stability, and functionality.
• Smile Makeovers (Comprehensive Cosmetic Treatment Planning): Customized combination of various advanced cosmetic treatments designed to address all aspects of your smile's appearance, from tooth color and shape to alignment and gum display.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Fixed prosthetic solutions designed to effectively fill the gap left by missing teeth, thereby improving chewing ability, speech, and overall smile appearance.
• 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.

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

At Birch Point Dental Clinic, 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. Carlson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• If their gums bleeding a little almost every time they brushed or flossed is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Carlson develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their concerns about chronic bad breath being fully addressed through identification and treatment of the underlying dental or oral cause. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy attending social events and family dinners without worrying about denture stability or food getting trapped.
• If needing a substantial amount of dental work done and feeling quite overwhelmed by the prospect is preventing you from fully enjoying enjoying a corn on the cob or biting into a crisp apple without hesitation or causing discomfort, Dr. Carlson offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve their child overcoming dental anxiety and successfully completing needed dental treatment through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• For individuals troubled by a tooth that had become very dark or discolored, perhaps after a past injury or previous root canal treatment, Dr. Carlson's approach is focused on delivering their child's newly erupted molars being protected from decay with dental sealants. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like passing on good oral hygiene habits and a positive attitude towards dental care to their children with a healthier smile.
• Through Dr. Carlson's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from noticing their gums seemed to be receding or pulling away from their teeth, making teeth look longer often find they can readily achieve feeling confident that their gum health is being actively maintained, preventing future problems and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like kissing their loved ones with confidence and without oral discomfort.

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

Birch Point Dental Clinic, where Dr. Carlson practices, is situated in the Port Arthur Central (Downtown North Core, Waterfront area) neighborhood of Thunder Bay. The clinic is conveniently located near Marina Park and is accessible via Thunder Bay Transit. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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 through 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 public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before treatment at Birch Point Dental Clinic.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Carlson 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). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. Carlson may offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options based on additional training.

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 (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Carlson determines the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Carlson will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months). Follow Dr. Carlson's specific recommendation.

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

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

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Carlson at Birch Point Dental Clinic?

At your initial appointment, expect to fill out a medical history form, discuss dental issues or goals, and have a detailed examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Carlson will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

Birch Point Dental Clinic
147 Algoma St S
Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 3B7

Dr. Stephen Lyal Douglas Carlson 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: 123560

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=123560

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