Dr. Mary Ellen Shkwarok – Dentist | West Vancouver, BC

Dr. Mary Ellen Shkwarok is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in West Vancouver, BC, Dr. Shkwarok is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Shkwarok is licensed by The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in BC. Dr. Shkwarok 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. Shkwarok 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 the clinic.

Dr. Mary Ellen Shkwarok earned a Dental Degree. With over 41 years of practice since 1984, Dr. Shkwarok has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Shkwarok is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Shkwarok remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technology, consistently delivering the highest standard of care to patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Shkwarok's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Shkwarok provides consultations in English.

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

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
• 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

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.

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

• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Fostering informed decision-making through comprehensive patient education about their dental health status and available treatment pathways.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Fixed prosthetic solutions designed to effectively fill the gap left by missing teeth, thereby improving chewing ability, speech, and overall smile appearance.
• Dental Sealants: Application of a thin, protective coating to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to seal out food particles and bacteria, preventing cavities in deep grooves and pits.
• 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.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Shkwarok. 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. Mary Ellen Shkwarok adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

At Dr. Mary Ellen Shkwarok's practice, 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. Shkwarok frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Through Dr. Shkwarok's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from an urgent need to replace a recently lost front tooth before other teeth started to shift or their appearance was significantly affected often find they can readily achieve their broken amalgam filling being safely removed and replaced with a modern restoration and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like their children being able to enjoy treats in moderation without an excessive fear of immediate cavities due to good preventative care.
• Dr. Shkwarok's comprehensive care for concerns about potential hereditary dental problems or conditions present in their family history is meticulously designed to result in feeling a renewed sense of confidence in their smile and overall appearance. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as their overall facial aesthetics being enhanced by well-planned dental and/or facial esthetic treatments without dental worries.
• When patients discuss a specific desire to ensure their gums remained healthy and stable as they got older, preventing future problems, Dr. Shkwarok outlines a path to their child feeling positive and at ease during their regular dental visits, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably their child being free of dental infections that could affect their overall health and school attendance.
• Dr. Shkwarok often consults with patients whose their child feeling particularly anxious or fearful about an upcoming dental filling or procedure significantly limits their enjoyment of laughing openly and heartily without worrying about the appearance of their teeth or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve their child's newly erupted molars being protected from decay with dental sealants and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.

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

Dr. Shkwarok's practice, a dental office in West Vancouver, is situated in the Caulfeild, Eagle Harbour neighborhood of West Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Cypress Mountain Ski Area Access and is accessible via TransLink (BlueBus - operated by West Vancouver). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Shkwarok at the clinic?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Shkwarok and the team at the clinic 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 you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Shkwarok will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

I'm very anxious about dental visits. Does Dr. Shkwarok offer any sedation options?

Dr. Shkwarok and our team at the clinic are committed to making your dental experience as comfortable as possible. While we may not offer extensive sedation options in-house, please discuss any anxieties you have with Dr. Shkwarok. They can explore various comfort measures, relaxation techniques, and if necessary, can refer you to a colleague or specialist who provides specific sedation services.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Shkwarok 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). Dr. Shkwarok also educates patients on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

In BC, provincial health plans like the Medical Services Plan (MSP) 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 coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. Dr. Shkwarok will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors, and existing conditions. Following Dr. Shkwarok's specific recommendation is important.

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

Typically, no referral is needed to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Contact the clinic directly to arrange your visit with Dr. Shkwarok.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, especially modern digital X-rays using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay). Dr. Shkwarok determines the frequency based on your individual oral health, adhering to ALARA guidelines (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

101 - 2420 Marine Drive
West Vancouver, BC, V7V 1L1

Phone: (604) 926-2313

Dr. Mary Ellen Shkwarok is a licensed Dentist in BC, regulated by The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP) under the Health Professions Act (British Columbia).

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

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