Dr. Blaire Edward Duke – Dentist | Parksville, BC

Dr. Blaire Edward Duke is a Dentist. Practicing at Box 365 in Parksville, BC, Dr. Duke is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Duke 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. Duke 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. Duke 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 Box 365.

Dr. Blaire Edward Duke earned a Dental Degree. With over 37 years of practice since 1988, Dr. Duke has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Duke is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most current and effective treatments, reflecting Dr. Duke's ongoing pursuit of excellence in the field of dentistry.

Key aspects of Dr. Duke's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Duke provides consultations in English.

Dr. Blaire Edward Duke 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

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.

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

• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Fostering informed decision-making through comprehensive patient education about their dental health status and available treatment pathways.
• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): Extraction of teeth that are not straightforward to remove due to their position, root morphology, or condition, performed within the scope of general dental practice and comfort level.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Fixed prosthetic solutions designed to effectively fill the gap left by missing teeth, thereby improving chewing ability, speech, and overall smile appearance.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.

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

At Box 365, 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. Duke frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When their gums appearing red, swollen, or inflamed in certain areas of their mouth starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to feeling confident that their oral health is positively contributing to their systemic health, Dr. Duke and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by gaining a clear understanding of their child's orthodontic needs and the available treatment options and a return to comfort and confidence.
• When their current partial or full denture feeling very unstable, loose, or ill-fitting, making it difficult to eat or speak with confidence begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Duke helps patients strive for their jaw no longer clicking or popping painfully, and jaw movement feeling smoother. This makes participating in activities such as kissing their loved ones with confidence and without oral discomfort a pleasant and possible experience again.
• For those affected by a piece of an old, large amalgam (silver) filling breaking off, leaving a tooth vulnerable, Dr. Duke provides solutions that lead to their toothache being completely resolved, allowing them to eat and sleep comfortably again. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to resuming hobbies that require concentration, now free from dental pain.
• For patients where concerns about grinding their teeth so forcefully or frequently that their jaw muscles ached or they experienced morning headaches is a primary concern, Dr. Duke focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in feeling confident in their ability to maintain excellent oral hygiene at home with improved techniques. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully feeling great about their smile in photographs and videos.

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

Dr. Duke's practice, Box 365, is situated in a central location within the Parksville neighborhood of Parksville. 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.

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 (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Duke 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).

Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see a dental specialist (e.g., Orthodontist, Periodontist)?

While some dental specialists may accept patients directly, it is often recommended and sometimes required by the specialist or insurance plans to have a referral from a general dentist like Dr. Duke. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Duke identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance if unsure.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Duke at Box 365?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Duke and the team at Box 365 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. Duke will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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. Duke are essential for early detection and prevention. Dr. Duke may also recommend dental sealants or professional fluoride treatments for added protection, particularly for children.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Duke 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 if offered). They also educate 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC) 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). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Duke for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Box 365.

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

Generally, every 6 months for most patients for preventative care. Dr. Duke will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months). Follow Dr. Duke's specific recommendation.

Box 365
131 Hirst Ave
Parksville, BC, V9P 2G5

Phone: (250) 248-5131

Dr. Blaire Edward Duke 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. Duke 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.