About

Dr. Ernest Lai attained his BSc. in biochemistry from McMaster University, and then completed his dental training at the Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. To follow his commitment to patient care, he studied an additional 12 months in a post-graduate dental residency, Advanced Education in General Dentistry, at the Case School of Dental Medicine. During his AEGD training, he attained experience in patient management and patient care, implantology, and with managing more complex and challenging treatments. He is certified and experienced in a wide range of treatments, including Invisalign and Laser Dentistry. He understands that dentistry can be sometimes stressful, frightening and confusing to patients. As such, he takes the time to listen and discuss issues in such a way to promote a more relaxing and comfortable experience. He genuinely cares about his patients, and his gentle and caring nature is expressed in how he practices. Dr. Lai continues to invest in patient care by taking courses to serve his patients better. He enjoys incorporating new technologies and techniques to be able to provide more customized care and services to his patients.

Education & Certifications
education Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine
education Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine
certification Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario Sep 01, 2009
Verified Patient Reviews
Based on 67 reviews across 2 sources
5.0 /5
Staff 5.0
Omar A. Checkmark Verified Patient

Great Dental Clinic, staff are very friendly and professional. The dentist is very experienced and professional. Highly recommended.

Reviewed on February 19th, 2024

Hayden S. Checkmark Verified Patient

Dr. Lai is very knowledgeable and the cleaning is very thorough

Reviewed on November 3rd, 2023

Monalyn Q. Checkmark Verified Patient

Their receptionist was great from my initial inquiry to getting all the correct forms and documents ready prior to my visit. Their state-of-the-art equipment made the screening/x-ray process very quick and easy. Dr. Lai was very professional and offered more than oral/dental care advice. My dental hygienist was great and she really made sure that my cleaning was thoroughly done - all while watching a Netflix show!

Reviewed on September 6th, 2023

Mariecar A. Checkmark Verified Patient

He explains the things you need to know and suggest the best treatment.

Reviewed on September 5th, 2023

Yinhao H. Checkmark Verified Patient

Very nice dentist and great clinic

Reviewed on August 30th, 2023

SINAN C. Checkmark Verified Patient

very friendly dentist and super professional. Dr. Lai would patiently explain if there are any concerns I have and give me his recommendation.

Reviewed on August 30th, 2023

Li L. Checkmark Verified Patient

- professional insights. Dr. Ernest provided many useful suggestions and explained the result of my teeth examination really well. - nice environment. you can watch movie while doing dental scaling - great services. scaling was done gently.

Reviewed on July 15th, 2023

Tony M. Checkmark Verified Patient

I recently visited Dr. Ernest Lai for a teeth cleaning appointment, and I couldn't be happier with the experience. Staffs expertise and gentle approach made the entire process comfortable and painless. The office staff was friendly and efficient, creating a welcoming environment.

Reviewed on July 10th, 2023

Jonathan B. Checkmark Verified Patient

Incredible dentist and dental hygienist. Highly recommend. Super good care.

Reviewed on April 6th, 2023

JIALE H. Checkmark Verified Patient

From the get go Debra has been great accommodating appointment and all the way to sorting out insurance claims, April was very helpful with x-Ray, Dr. Lai was very attentive and very informative and last but not least Vadia was also very nice and always making sure I was comfortable. All and all a very pleasant experience at Rio Dental.

Reviewed on March 31st, 2023

KINSLEY J. Checkmark Verified Patient

A highly experienced practician whose work suggests many years of experience. We had a very pleasant and accommodating experience from beginning to end. At no point did we experience any unnecessary discomfort. We were informed of upcoming problematic issues as well as the remedy to move forward with. Well done.

Reviewed on March 1st, 2023

Dale C. Checkmark Verified Patient

Greatest dentist ever! Very kind and gentle He Turned on calming scenery and music on the tv .. made you feel very relaxed. Pulled my tooth without me even realizing it!

Reviewed on February 25th, 2023

Lauren B. Checkmark Verified Patient

Very helpful and nice. We’re very understanding and knowledgeable. I would definitely recommend.

Reviewed on November 25th, 2022

Lauren B. Checkmark Verified Patient

Very good experience. Dr Lai and his staff were very nice and friendly. They were very helpful and explain everything in a way that made sense. I would definitely recommend.

Reviewed on August 26th, 2022

Wyatt C. Checkmark Verified Patient

Reception was expecting us. Quick check in for new patient. Dentist was gentle and credible. Assistant was helpful and informative. Comfortable visit despite covid protocols.

Reviewed on September 11th, 2021

Margaret N. Checkmark Verified Patient

The staff were very friendly and Dr. Lai and his associates explain what they're doing every step of the way. The office is clean and equipped with latest technology, including monitors with programs for patients to watch during their appointment.

Reviewed on May 23rd, 2021

Helen T. Checkmark Verified Patient

I found Dr. Lai to be very personable. I felt very comfortable & he took the time to describe in detail every procedure to be taken. This was my first visit & I was very pleased & would certainly recommend him.

Reviewed on June 10th, 2020

Richard A. Checkmark Verified Patient

Dr Ernest Lai & his team were fantastic, in terms of welcoming me as a new patient, latest equipment and providing clear explanations and next steps.

Reviewed on March 24th, 2020

Lisa W. Checkmark Verified Patient

Awesome staff and very helpful and accommodating.

Reviewed on March 5th, 2020

Stephen H. Checkmark Verified Patient

Dr. Lai was very friendly and thorough with the examination, he was very patient and explained anything that I didn't understand. I genuinely feel like he cares about my oral health and made me feel very comfortable the whole time.

Reviewed on February 17th, 2020

Bhavesh P. Checkmark Verified Patient

Great knowledge of his craft. Gave good options.

Reviewed on December 29th, 2019

David S. Checkmark Verified Patient

Knowledgeable professional. Pleasant experience.

Reviewed on December 15th, 2019

Katherine C. Checkmark Verified Patient

Dr. Lai and his staff are friendly and professional. The facility is nice, clean and comfortable. Definitely recommend Rio Dental.

Reviewed on December 7th, 2019

Pritpal S. Checkmark Verified Patient

Hygienists was a bit rough for my liking.

Reviewed on December 1st, 2019

Frank Z. Checkmark Verified Patient

Overall great experience with Ernest. He found issues my previous dentist had missed and explained to me in detail what the ramifications and treatment plan would involve.

Reviewed on November 15th, 2019

Anna S. Checkmark Verified Patient

Great doctor, very satisfied

Reviewed on November 5th, 2019

Edwin C. Checkmark Verified Patient

Dentist and staff were friendly and professional. The exam was thorough and Dr. Lai spent the time to explain things in detail.

Reviewed on October 1st, 2019

Michael T. Checkmark Verified Patient

The experience was pleasant and well structured. I was able to have my procedure done promptly and in accordance with my schedule. This flexibility is highly valuable.

Reviewed on October 1st, 2019

Okeeno B. Checkmark Verified Patient

Amazing. They were very patient even though I was late and I will be returning

Reviewed on August 31st, 2019

Laurence G. Checkmark Verified Patient

Very informative and helpful. Walked through all my x rays and explained them and what treatments were needed and why.

Reviewed on August 23rd, 2019

Frequently asked questions
Where is Dr. Ernest Lai's office located?

Dr. Ernest Lai's office is in Thornhill, ON.

What services does Dr. Ernest Lai offer?

Dr. Ernest Lai offers Braces and Retainers, Bridges and Dentures, Fillings and more. Learn more about Dr. Ernest Lai's services on Opencare or book your appointment today.