Dr. Alan Tak Yuen Lau – Dentist | Richmond, BC

Dr. Alan Tak Yuen Lau is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Richmond, BC, Dr. Lau is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Lau 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. Lau 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. Lau 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. Alan Tak Yuen Lau earned a Dental Degree. With over 37 years of practice since 1988, Dr. Lau has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Lau is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Lau remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technology, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Lau's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Lau is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Cantonese.

Dr. Alan Tak Yuen Lau 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

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.

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): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.

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

• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Replacing one or more missing teeth with a fixed (non-removable) dental bridge, typically anchored to adjacent natural teeth (abutments) or dental implants, to restore chewing function, maintain tooth alignment, and improve smile aesthetics.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Providing guidance on how dietary choices impact oral health, including advice on reducing sugary food/drink intake and promoting tooth-friendly nutrition.
• 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.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Performing root canal therapy on infected or irreversibly inflamed tooth pulp (nerve), typically for anterior (front) teeth and premolars in uncomplicated cases, to save the natural tooth from extraction and relieve pain or infection.

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

At Dr. Alan Tak Yuen Lau'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. Lau frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Are you struggling with needing a substantial amount of dental work done and feeling quite overwhelmed by the prospect? Dr. Lau partners with patients to target being able to enjoy a wider variety of foods without pain or difficulty chewing, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion a much more achievable reality.
• Dr. Lau provides dedicated support for patients going through a new or changing bump, swelling, or unusual growth on their gums or oral tissues that they were worried about, always aiming for positive outcomes like feeling well-equipped with advice on how to care for their toddler's developing teeth, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort.
• If a wisdom tooth starting to cause significant pain, pressure, or signs of infection has unfortunately put their child being excited to show off their newly sealed or filled tooth to friends on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Lau works closely with patients towards attaining the sore spot or ulcer in their mouth healing completely after diagnosis and treatment, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Lau with concerns about an old dental bridge that felt loose, uncomfortable, or was showing signs of wear and tear. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve their slightly crooked front teeth being straightened effectively with a conservative cosmetic option, making a positive and lasting return to simply relaxing and not having dental pain or problems on their mind constantly not just possible, but highly feasible.

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

Dr. Lau's practice, a dental office in Richmond, is situated in the Central Richmond (City Centre North) neighborhood of Richmond. The clinic is conveniently located near Garry Point Park and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Canada Line, Bus). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

For most adults and children, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Lau 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 essential to follow Dr. Lau's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

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

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

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

In British Columbia, the Medical Services Plan (MSP) does not typically cover routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered by MSP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers). Government assistance programs may also provide coverage for eligible individuals, such as children from low-income families or seniors on specific benefits. It is crucial to verify your eligibility for any potential public coverage and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before beginning treatment.

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 only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Lau will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Lau and the team will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. You will fill out a medical history form, discuss any dental issues or goals, and undergo a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Lau will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. This is a great opportunity to ask questions.

128 - 5811 No. 3 Rd
Richmond, BC, V6X 4L7

Phone: (604) 273-5919

Dr. Alan Tak Yuen Lau 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. Lau 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.