Find Trusted Preventive Dental Care A Short Drive From Strathcona Near Hamilton
I am Dr. Susan Pan, and I care deeply about helping Hamilton-area patients feel comfortable with their dental care choices. If you live near Strathcona, Excel Dental at 49 East Avenue South is an easy, reliable option for routine exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and early cavity detection so you can protect your smile without a long trip.
Why preventive dental care matters
Preventive care catches small problems before they become painful and expensive. Regular checkups let me monitor gum health, spot early decay, and assess risk factors like dry mouth or wear from grinding. When issues are identified early, treatments are simpler and recovery is quicker.
Preventive appointments also give us a chance to create a personalized plan. I listen to your concerns, review your medical history, and tailor recall intervals and home-care advice to your needs rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.
Preventive services available at Excel Dental
At our office I provide routine oral exams, professional cleanings, digital x-rays for low-radiation imaging, fluoride varnish, and sealants for eligible patients. I also screen for signs of oral cancer and evaluate bite and jaw function.
We use up-to-date sterilization and infection-control protocols, and our digital tools help me explain findings so you can see what I see. If we find something that needs specialty care, I will help coordinate referrals to trusted local specialists.
What to expect during a preventive visit
Your visit begins with a brief health update and any concerns you want addressed. I perform a gentle oral exam and take x-rays only when necessary. A dental hygienist completes the cleaning, removing plaque and polishing teeth, and we finish with a review of findings and next steps.
I always show patients any areas of concern and explain treatment options in plain language. If you need treatment, we plan what should happen first, how urgent it is, and what to expect during recovery.
Preventive care for families and kids
I welcome patients of all ages and emphasize early visits for children so they become comfortable with dental care. For kids I recommend preventive sealants for molars when appropriate and fluoride varnish to strengthen enamel.
For families, we coordinate recall schedules so multiple members can be seen on the same day when possible, making care more convenient for busy households.
Managing dental anxiety and comfort measures
If you feel nervous about dental visits, tell me. I provide a calm, patient-centered approach and multiple comfort options, from a slower pace and breaks to topical numbing for injections. I take time to explain each step so there are no surprises.
For patients with stronger anxiety we discuss appropriate sedation or relaxation strategies and create a plan together to make visits manageable.
Insurance, billing, and access
I work with major provincial plans and many private insurers; my team can help you understand coverage and estimate out-of-pocket costs before treatment. We offer direct billing for many carriers to reduce paperwork on your end.
If cost is a barrier, I discuss phased treatment plans that prioritize the most important care first while spreading other services over time.
Tips for maintaining oral health between visits
Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and clean between teeth once a day with floss or interdental brushes. Limit frequent snacking on sugary foods and drink water regularly to help rinse away acids.
If you grind your teeth, wear a custom nightguard I provide to protect enamel. For dry mouth, sip water, chew sugar-free gum with xylitol, and review medications with your primary care provider if dryness is severe.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I come in for a cleaning and exam?
I generally recommend a cleaning and exam every six months, but some patients benefit from shorter or longer intervals depending on their gum health and risk factors.
Are x-rays safe and how often do I need them?
I use digital x-rays that use very low radiation. I take them only when clinically necessary, such as to check for hidden decay or evaluate bone levels.
Do you offer fluoride or sealants for adults?
Yes. Fluoride treatments can help adults with sensitivity or high decay risk. Sealants are most common for children but may be considered for adults in certain cases.
What if I have dental anxiety or fear?
Tell me about your concerns. In my practice we move at your pace, use numbing options, and can discuss sedation if needed to help you get the care you need comfortably.
Can preventive care reverse early decay?
Early enamel changes can often be remineralized with fluoride, improved home care, and dietary adjustments. I monitor these areas closely and recommend noninvasive measures when appropriate.
How do I know if my child needs sealants?
I assess your child’s chewing surfaces and cavity risk. If their molars have deep grooves that trap food, I often recommend sealants to prevent decay.
Will my insurance cover preventive visits?
Many plans cover routine exams and cleanings. My staff can help you check benefits and file claims so you understand what is covered.
What can I do about bleeding gums?
Bleeding gums often mean inflammation from plaque buildup. I suggest improved cleaning, a professional cleaning, and a follow-up so I can check for gum disease and create a care plan.
Are electric toothbrushes better than manual?
Both can be effective when used properly. I recommend whichever helps you clean consistently and comfortably; electric brushes can make it easier for some patients.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring a list of medications, your dental insurance information, and any recent dental records if you have them. If anxiety is a concern, let us know so we can prepare.
More information
For reliable guidance on dental benefits and general oral health in Ontario, the Ontario Dental Association (https://www.oda.ca) and the Ontario government’s dental care pages (https://www.ontario.ca/page/dental-care) offer patient-friendly overviews and links to public programs. The Canadian Dental Association (https://www.cda-adc.ca) provides evidence-based resources about prevention and oral health topics that I often recommend to patients looking for trustworthy background information.
If you have questions or want to book an appointment, please call 905-529-2164.
