Dr. Anna Theresa Thompson

Dr. Anna Theresa Thompson 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: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.
• 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: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Addressing broken or cracked teeth to restore their form, function, and prevent infection.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.

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.

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

• Dental Sealants: A simple and effective preventative measure to reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Educating patients on the importance of gum health and the steps they can take to maintain healthy periodontal tissues for life.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.
• 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.

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

At Mountain View 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. Thompson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Numerous patients have successfully addressed waking up frequently with a sore jaw, facial muscle tenderness, or tension headaches, possibly from teeth grinding with Dr. Thompson's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy feeling that their investment in cosmetic or restorative dentistry was truly worthwhile for their self-esteem once more.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for their gums appearing red, swollen, or inflamed in certain areas of their mouth at Dr. Thompson's practice is consistently achieving their lost filling or crown being promptly and durably replaced, protecting the tooth. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as feeling comfortable and pain-free throughout their day, no longer bothered by a nagging dental problem.
• A key objective when treating a canker sore (aphthous ulcer) that was unusually large, very painful, or taking a long time to heal at Dr. Thompson's welcoming dental clinic is achieving 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 directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like no longer needing to cut food into tiny pieces or avoid certain textures due to dental problems.
• Overcoming or effectively managing a new or changing bump, swelling, or unusual growth on their gums or oral tissues that they were worried about is a common journey for patients under Dr. Thompson's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling receiving clear dental clearance before a major medical procedure, ensuring their overall health is prioritized, so that daily routines and pleasures like speaking clearly and confidently in professional meetings or social gatherings become straightforward again.

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

Mountain View Family Dental, where Dr. Thompson 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.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Thompson at Mountain View Family Dental?

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

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

Dr. Thompson and our team at Mountain View Family Dental 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. Thompson. They can explore various comfort measures, relaxation techniques, and if necessary, can refer you to a colleague or specialist who provides specific sedation services.

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Thompson will recommend a personalized schedule based on your (or your child's) individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., 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 between appointments. It is important to follow Dr. Thompson's specific recommendation.

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. Thompson 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. Thompson typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Thompson 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 include cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. Dr. Thompson also provides education on oral hygiene and will refer 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. 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). It is essential to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment at Mountain View Family Dental.

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

No, a referral is typically not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. You are welcome to contact Mountain View Family Dental directly to arrange your visit with Dr. Thompson.

Mountain View Family Dental
2024 Columbia Avenue
Castlegar, BC, V1N 2W7

Phone: (250) 365-5252

Dr. Anna Theresa Thompson 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. Thompson 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.