Dr. Aidan Jze Ming Coe-Chow

Dr. Aidan Jze Ming Coe-Chow provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.
• 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

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Addressing broken or cracked teeth to restore their form, function, and prevent infection.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.

Dental Pain Emergency

• 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.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.

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

• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): Removal of some erupted or partially erupted teeth, including some erupted wisdom teeth, that may require minor surgical techniques such as sectioning the tooth or minimal bone removal for access, depending on the dentist's training, experience, and case complexity.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Thorough dental cleanings by a registered dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and surface stains, promoting healthy gums and teeth.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Providing necessary adjustments, repairs (e.g., for cracks or broken teeth), and relines (to improve fit due to gum shrinkage) for existing dentures to enhance comfort, stability, and functionality.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Fostering informed decision-making through comprehensive patient education about their dental health status and available treatment pathways.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Coe-Chow. 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. Aidan Jze Ming Coe-Chow adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

At Kootenay Family Dental, 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. Coe-Chow frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients experiencing a dental problem or discomfort that they had been avoiding or putting off addressing for far too long often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Coe-Chow's practice, a key objective is their child receiving necessary specialized dental care thanks to a timely referral, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in their smile reflecting their inner happiness and confidence.
• Patients presenting with wanting to explore options to replace a missing tooth with a permanent solution like a dental implant can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of feeling confident that their gum health is being actively maintained, preventing future problems under Dr. Coe-Chow's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume their child showing pride in their healthy smile and good brushing habits without the former limitations or discomfort.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of a persistent and unexplained bad taste in their mouth, even after brushing, Dr. Coe-Chow offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their old, uncomfortable dental bridge being replaced with a well-fitting and aesthetic new one. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of feeling comfortable with close-up interactions and conversations.
• The journey from noticing their gums seemed to be receding or pulling away from their teeth, making teeth look longer to wellness often involves Dr. Coe-Chow's dedicated care. The milestone is gaining a clear understanding of their child's orthodontic needs and the available treatment options, which opens the door back to activities such as being able to eat in public restaurants without anxiety about their teeth or dentures.

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

Kootenay Family Dental, where Dr. Coe-Chow practices, is situated in a central location within the Castlegar neighborhood of Castlegar. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Coe-Chow 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. Coe-Chow's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

What is Kootenay Family Dental'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. Coe-Chow. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient in need of care. Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without any notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee of $75. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us manage our schedule efficiently.

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 always used. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Coe-Chow will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Coe-Chow 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, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may also offer cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. They also educate patients on oral hygiene and refer 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 eligibility for any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before starting treatment.

Does Kootenay Family Dental offer direct billing to dental insurance companies (assignment of benefits)?

Yes, for your convenience, Kootenay Family Dental offers direct billing (also known as assignment of benefits) to most major dental insurance companies. This means we can submit your claim electronically directly to your insurer at the time of your appointment. You would then typically be responsible for paying any co-payment, deductible, or the portion of the fee not covered by your specific plan at the time of service. Please bring all your current insurance information (policy number, group number, ID number) to your appointment so we can assist you.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Kootenay Family Dental directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Coe-Chow.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Coe-Chow at Kootenay Family Dental?

Your first visit with Dr. Coe-Chow 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. Coe-Chow will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

Kootenay Family Dental
663 Columbia Avenue
Castlegar, BC, V1N 1H1

Phone: (250) 365-3339

Dr. Aidan Jze Ming Coe-Chow 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. Coe-Chow 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.