Looking for a Dentist? We can help!

The Ontario Dental Association has a tool to help you find a dentist in your area

TORONTO, Nov. 13, 2012 /CNW/ - In its dedication to promoting optimal oral health care to everyone in the province, the Ontario Dental Association (ODA) has an online tool that helps you find a dentist in less time than it takes to brush your teeth.

Find-A-Dentist is one of the most popular features on the ODA's public website, youroralhealth.ca. The tool includes contact information for ODA members across the province. While joining the Association is not mandatory for dentists in Ontario, the ODA has a strong membership base with more than 90 percent of licensed dentists in the province.

The search engine also uses Google Maps to help you locate both general practitioner and specialist dentists. Whether you are searching by name, postal code or dental specialty, locating a dentist can be just a few keystrokes away.

"The ODA's Find-A-Dentist page is one of the most highly viewed items on our website," says Dr. Arthur Worth, President of the ODA. "This tells us that the public understands the importance of the dental exam and this tool is proving to be a significant resource for them."

There are many ways to prevent oral diseases - regular brushing and flossing, eating right and not smoking. But a regular dental exam can identify and diagnose problems before they become more serious. So if you are looking for a dentist, or haven't been to one for some time, it is best not to wait until a toothache or another emergency hits.

"Dental diseases, such as tooth decay and oral cancer, often do not show symptoms until the disease has progressed, so patients are not aware that a problem exists until they have pain or swelling," says Dr. Worth. "Dental disease is not reversible, so catching it early is critical to prevent ongoing problems or negative health impacts."

Only a dentist can examine, diagnose and treat gum disease, oral cancer and tooth decay. Dentists can also detect signs of other non-oral diseases such as diabetes that may require follow-up by a physician.  And as the leader of their oral health-care team, a dentist can offer cleanings, examinations and treatments, all in one appointment.

"The dental exam is the foundation of good oral health," says Dr. Worth. "When you don't know what you're looking for, dental disease can be easy to miss - your dentist sees things you can't."

To access Find-A-Dentist and learn more about the dental exam, visit www.youroralhealth.ca.

SOURCE: Ontario Dental Association

Media contacts:

Courtney Sorger
ODA Public Affairs and Communications
416-355-2275
[email protected]

Bonnie Dean
ODA Public Affairs and Communications
416-922-3900, ext. 3314
[email protected]