Dr. Tom Markou – Dentist | Richmond Hill, ON

Dr. Tom Markou is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at Humberland Dental in Richmond Hill, ON, Dr. Markou is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Markou 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. Markou 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. Markou 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. Markou 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 Humberland Dental.

Dr. Tom Markou earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 1995. With over 30 years of practice since 1995, Dr. Markou 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. Markou is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Markou's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Markou provides consultations in English.

Dr. Tom Markou 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.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
• 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.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.

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

• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Guidance on the best tools and methods for cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly to prevent dental problems.
• Oral Conscious Sedation (Anxiolysis): A commonly used sedation option for patients with moderate dental fear or anxiety, allowing them to remain conscious and able to respond to verbal cues but feel deeply relaxed and often have little memory of the procedure.
• 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 Crowns (Caps): Full-coverage restorations crafted from materials like porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or gold to encase and reinforce a compromised tooth for long-term durability.

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

At Humberland 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. Markou frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When patients discuss experiencing a persistently dry mouth (xerostomia) feeling, making it uncomfortable to speak or swallow, Dr. Markou outlines a path to feeling a renewed sense of confidence in their smile and overall appearance, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably enjoying a corn on the cob or biting into a crisp apple without hesitation.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing their child frequently complaining of a sore tooth or dental discomfort, involves working systematically towards achieving the beautiful, confident smile they had always desired through cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Markou expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including maintaining a professional appearance that boosts their career prospects.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for experiencing sharp or lingering pain when they bit down or chewed on a specific tooth at Dr. Markou's practice is consistently achieving finally addressing a long-standing dental problem, leading to improved oral health and comfort. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as speaking clearly and confidently in professional meetings or social gatherings.
• Are you struggling with a persistent sore spot, ulcer, or unusual lesion in their mouth that hadn't healed on its own? Dr. Markou partners with patients to target their old, uncomfortable dental bridge being replaced with a well-fitting and aesthetic new one, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as their child looking forward to dental visits rather than fearing them a much more achievable reality.

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

Humberland Dental, where Dr. Markou practices, is situated in the Oak Ridges, Lake Wilcox neighborhood of Richmond Hill. The clinic is conveniently located near Hillcrest Mall and is accessible via York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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 (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Markou 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).

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Markou 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). It's important to follow Dr. Markou's specific recommendation.

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). Always verify your eligibility for any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Markou 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. Dr. Markou may offer specialized services in areas like General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options based on additional training.

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

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

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Markou at Humberland Dental?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Markou and the team at Humberland Dental 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. Markou will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

Humberland Dental
13495 Bathurst St #8
Richmond Hill, ON, L4E 4P2

Phone: (905) 773-3771

Dr. Tom Markou 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: 12955

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=12955

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