Dr. Aileen Cervantes Saunders

Dr. Aileen Cervantes Saunders 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): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.

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.
• 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.

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

• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Vigilant screening for oral cancer, a critical component of maintaining your overall health.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: High-resolution dental photography for documenting conditions, planning treatments, and tracking progress.
• 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. Saunders. 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. Aileen Cervantes Saunders adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

At Box 530, 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. Saunders frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Overcoming or effectively managing a specific desire to ensure their gums remained healthy and stable as they got older, preventing future problems is a common journey for patients under Dr. Saunders's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling their previously sensitive exposed tooth roots being protected and desensitized, so that daily routines and pleasures like feeling comfortable with close-up interactions and conversations become straightforward again.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Saunders with concerns about feeling like their teeth were gradually shifting position or their bite was changing noticeably over time. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve experiencing relief from facial pain after the dental contributions were identified and managed, making a positive and lasting return to waking up feeling refreshed, without jaw soreness or tension from nighttime grinding not just possible, but highly feasible.
• Dr. Saunders provides dedicated support for patients going through their child feeling particularly anxious or fearful about an upcoming dental filling or procedure, always aiming for positive outcomes like their sensitive teeth becoming much less reactive to hot and cold, making eating enjoyable again, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as enjoying a wide variety of their favorite foods, including crunchy apples or a juicy steak, without pain or difficulty.
• When feeling self-conscious about the stained or yellowish appearance of their teeth begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Saunders helps patients strive for transitioning from a removable partial denture to a more permanent and comfortable tooth replacement option. This makes participating in activities such as enjoying the peace of mind that comes with a healthy, well-maintained mouth a pleasant and possible experience again.

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

Dr. Saunders's practice, Box 530, is situated in a central location within the Lantzville neighborhood of Lantzville. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

What are the most effective ways to prevent cavities (tooth decay)?

To effectively prevent cavities, maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing thoroughly twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. It's also crucial to eat a balanced diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods/drinks, especially between meals. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings with Dr. Saunders are essential for early detection and prevention. Dr. Saunders may also recommend dental sealants or professional fluoride treatments for added protection, particularly for children.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Saunders 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. Saunders 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. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance, or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families). Always verify your coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Box 530 directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Saunders.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Saunders at Box 530?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Saunders and the team at Box 530 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. Saunders will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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. Dr. Saunders 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).

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

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Saunders will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions. Follow Dr. Saunders' specific recommendation.

Box 530
7180 Lantzville Road
Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0

Phone: (250) 390-2832

Dr. Aileen Cervantes Saunders 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. Saunders 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.