Dr. Tessa Ursula Von Den Steinen – Dentist | Prince George, BC

Dr. Tessa Ursula Von Den Steinen is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Prince George, BC, Dr. is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. 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. 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. 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. Tessa Ursula Von Den Steinen earned a Dental Degree. With over 17 years of practice since 2008, Dr. has accumulated extensive clinical experience. Dr. is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, allowing Dr. to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr.'s dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. is fluent in English and also offers consultations in German.

Dr. Tessa Ursula Von Den Steinen provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Providing immediate care for teeth that have been knocked out (avulsed), dislodged, or fractured due to an accident or injury, aiming to save the tooth if possible.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.

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): Early to moderate stages of gum disease involving some bone loss around teeth, managed by GPs with deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Tooth decay in infants and young children, often affecting the upper front teeth, requiring early intervention and preventative strategies.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Repairing cavities and minor tooth defects with durable, natural-looking composite resin fillings that blend seamlessly with your existing teeth.
• 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.

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

At Dr. Tessa Ursula Von Den Steinen'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. frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When waking up frequently with a sore jaw, facial muscle tenderness, or tension headaches, possibly from teeth grinding begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. helps patients strive for their previously loose tooth feeling stable and secure after treatment. This makes participating in activities such as their child being able_to focus on learning and playing without the interruption of dental pain a pleasant and possible experience again.
• When patients discuss a persistent and unexplained bad taste in their mouth, even after brushing, Dr. outlines a path to their chipped or broken tooth being beautifully restored to its natural shape and function, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably feeling good about their overall appearance and the positive first impression their smile makes.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. when they first notice their child experiencing a dental emergency, such as a badly broken tooth or facial swelling. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their child having fewer cavities due to improved dietary habits and hygiene practices taught at the clinic, enabling them to once again enjoy their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet without hesitation.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of persistent bad breath (halitosis) that didn't seem to improve despite good hygiene, Dr. offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their partner reporting less snoring or cessation of breathing pauses during sleep after starting treatment with a dental sleep apnea appliance (facilitated by their dentist). This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of concentrating fully on their work or studies without the distraction of dental discomfort.

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

Dr.'s practice, a dental office in Prince George, is situated in the West Prince George, College Heights neighborhood of Prince George. The clinic is conveniently located near Two Rivers Gallery and is accessible via the Prince George Transit System (BC Transit). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, some patients may need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is crucial to follow Dr.'s specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services. These include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may include cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. Dr. also provides education on oral hygiene and refers patients 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 British Columbia, provincial health plans like the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically do NOT cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics. Some specific, limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered under MSP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, or social assistance recipients). It's essential to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

What is our clinic's policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations?

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 24 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient. Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee of $50. We appreciate your cooperation.

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

Your first visit with Dr. 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. will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed during this visit or scheduled for a subsequent one.

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 (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. will determine the frequency based on your individual needs, adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles.

What is the process for becoming a new patient at our clinic with Dr.?

To become a new patient with Dr., please call our office at (250) 960-3810. Our team will gather some basic information and schedule your first appointment, which is typically a comprehensive examination and consultation. Please be prepared to provide your medical history and any dental insurance information you may have.

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

No, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist like Dr. You can contact our clinic directly to arrange your visit.

4122 15th Ave
Prince George, BC, V2M 1V9

Phone: (250) 960-3810

Dr. Tessa Ursula Von Den Steinen 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. 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.