About
Dr. Ying Vivian Lu is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at Yonge Sheppard Dentistry in North York, ON, Dr. Lu is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Lu 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. Lu 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. Lu 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. Lu utilizes advanced dental imaging technologies, such as Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), for superior diagnostic capabilities and precise treatment planning for complex cases including dental implants, orthodontics, endodontics, impacted teeth, or assessment of oral pathology. Dr. Lu 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 Yonge Sheppard Dentistry.
Dr. Ying Vivian Lu earned a Dental Degree from University Of Toronto, graduating in 2012. With over 13 years of practice since 2012, Dr. Lu 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 and General Dentistry Utilizing Advanced Dental Imaging (CBCT/CT Scans). This dentist holds specific qualifications or certifications, including: Minimal Oral. Dr. Lu is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Lu remains at the forefront of advancements in dental technology and treatment techniques, consistently delivering the highest quality care to their patients.
Key aspects of Dr. Lu's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Lu provides consultations in English.
Dr. Ying Vivian Lu provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:
Gum Disease Initial
- Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.
- 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.
Common Dental Issues
- Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.
- Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.
- Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.
- Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.
Gag Reflex Management
- Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Seeking strategies, desensitization techniques, or appropriate sedation options to manage a strong gag reflex during necessary dental care.
This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Lu. 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.
- 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.
- Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Ensuring you fully understand your dental care plan and have all your questions answered before proceeding with any treatment, fostering informed consent.
- Oral Conscious Sedation (Anxiolysis): Prescribing specific oral sedative medication (e.g., a benzodiazepine) to be taken shortly before dental appointments to induce a state of conscious relaxation and significantly reduce anxiety for patients undergoing more extensive, lengthy, or potentially stressful procedures.
- Intravenous (IV) Sedation (Moderate or 'Twilight' Sedation - If Certified): A highly effective and predictable sedation technique for achieving profound relaxation and anxiety control during various dental treatments, ensuring patient comfort and cooperation.
Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Lu. 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. Ying Vivian Lu adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in ON and standards of The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO).
At Yonge Sheppard Dentistry, 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. Lu frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:
- Dr. Lu expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of their dentures frequently rubbing, causing persistent sore spots, or making it difficult to eat comfortably. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their smile looking its absolute best for an important upcoming wedding, graduation, or other special event, means they can happily and comfortably get back to biting into sandwiches or other challenging foods with complete confidence.
- For individuals troubled by an impacted tooth (often a wisdom tooth) that their previous dentist had mentioned might require monitoring or future attention, Dr. Lu's approach is focused on delivering a noticeable improvement or elimination of persistent bad taste in their mouth. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like resuming hobbies that require concentration, now free from dental pain with a healthier smile.
- Patients experiencing noticing a concerning dark spot on one of their teeth, possibly a cavity often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Lu's practice, a key objective is the inflammation around their dental implant being successfully treated, ensuring its longevity, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in participating actively in sports without fear of dental injury, especially with a custom mouthguard.
- Managing their child needing preventative dental sealants applied to their newly erupted permanent molars to protect against cavities effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Lu and the dental team. The clear aim is always achieving their desired level of teeth whiteness safely and effectively under professional supervision, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying being able to focus on their passions and pursuits without the constant background noise of dental issues and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
Your personalized dental treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Lu, will be carefully designed to help you reach your specific functional, aesthetic, and overall oral wellness objectives. Dr. Lu is committed to empowering patients with the information and high-quality care needed to achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile for life.
Yonge Sheppard Dentistry, where Dr. Lu practices, is situated in a central location within the North York neighborhood of North York. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.
- I'm very anxious about dental visits. Does Dr. Lu offer any sedation options?
- Yes, Dr. Lu understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, Yonge Sheppard Dentistry may offer various sedation options. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Lu during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.
- What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Lu at Yonge Sheppard Dentistry?
- Your first visit with Dr. Lu 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. Lu will discuss their 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.
- 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). Always verify your eligibility for public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.
- What services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Lu typically provide?
- A General Dentist like Dr. Lu 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. Lu 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 which use minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary. Dr. Lu 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).
- Do I need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Lu?
- No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Lu for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Yonge Sheppard Dentistry.
- How often should I (or my child) visit Dr. Lu for a check-up and cleaning?
- Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Lu will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions. Follow Dr. Lu's specific recommendation.
Yonge Sheppard Dentistry
4789 Yonge St #203
North York, ON, M2N 0G3
Phone: (416) 224-9377
Dr. Ying Vivian Lu 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: 92224
Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=92224
Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining overall health. Dr. Lu 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.