Dr. Yen Christina Ma – Dentist | Markham, ON

Dr. Yen Christina Ma is a Dentist. Practicing at Major MacKenzie Cathedral Markham Dental Clinic in Markham, ON, Dr. Ma is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Ma 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. Ma 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. Ma 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 Major MacKenzie Cathedral Markham Dental Clinic.

Dr. Yen Christina Ma earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 1992. With over 33 years of practice since 1992, Dr. Ma's experience is extensive. Dr. Ma is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures patients receive the most current and effective treatments.

Key aspects of Dr. Ma's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Ma provides consultations in English.

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

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.
• 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.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.

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

• Fluoride Treatments: Strengthening tooth surfaces with fluoride to make them more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Custom-crafted bridges providing a stable, functional, and natural-looking replacement for lost teeth, preventing shifting of remaining teeth.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Designing, fabricating, and fitting comfortable, functional, and natural-looking complete dentures (for patients missing all teeth in an arch) or partial dentures (for patients missing some teeth) to restore chewing ability, speech, and smile aesthetics. Options may include implant-supported dentures for enhanced stability.
• Dental Sealants: Protective sealants for children and adolescents to safeguard vulnerable back teeth from decay.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Essential maintenance services to extend the life and performance of your dentures, ensuring they continue to serve you well and comfortably.

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

At Major MacKenzie Cathedral Markham 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. Ma frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Understanding the frustration wondering if their child would likely need orthodontic treatment in the future based on their current dental development can cause, Dr. Ma tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve experiencing complete relief from pain when biting down on a previously problematic tooth, allowing for renewed participation in activities like laughing openly and heartily without worrying about the appearance of their teeth.
• If their smile not looking as bright, white, or vibrant as it used to, prompting interest in whitening is preventing you from fully enjoying their TMJ comfort allowing them to yawn, laugh, and speak without restriction or pain or causing discomfort, Dr. Ma offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve their toothache being completely resolved, allowing them to eat and sleep comfortably again through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• If needing a custom-fitted mouthguard for playing sports to properly protect their teeth and jaw from injury has unfortunately put showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Ma works closely with patients towards attaining receiving a definitive diagnosis for an unusual growth or spot in their mouth, leading to appropriate action, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.

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

Major MacKenzie Cathedral Markham Dental Clinic, where Dr. Ma practices, is situated in the Cachet, Angus Glen East neighborhood of Markham. The clinic is conveniently located near Milliken Mills Community Centre & Library and is accessible via York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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. Ma. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Ma identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. If unsure, check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Ma will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need visits every 3-4 months (e.g., managing active gum disease or high caries risk), while others might have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Ma's specific recommendation.

What should I do if I have a dental emergency outside of Major MacKenzie Cathedral Markham Dental Clinic's regular office hours?

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency (e.g., severe uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing due to facial swelling, significant facial trauma), please go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911 immediately. For urgent dental issues that are not life-threatening but require prompt attention outside of Major MacKenzie Cathedral Markham Dental Clinic’s hours (such as severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, a dental abscess with moderate swelling, or a broken tooth causing sharp pain), please contact the clinic. Our voicemail message may provide instructions for emergency contact with Dr. Ma or another on-call dentist, or direct you to an emergency dental service available in the Markham area.

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. Ma 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).

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). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Ma at Major MacKenzie Cathedral Markham Dental Clinic?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Ma and the team 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, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Ma will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

Typically, no referral is needed to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Contact Major MacKenzie Cathedral Markham Dental Clinic directly.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Ma is the primary dental care provider, offering 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 (if offered). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

Major MacKenzie Cathedral Markham Dental Clinic
17 Cathedral High St
Markham, ON, L6C 0N9

Dr. Yen Christina Ma 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: 12142

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=12142

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