About
Dr. Brent J. Peterson is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at a dentist practice in Lethbridge, AB, Dr. Peterson is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Peterson is licensed by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in AB. Dr. Peterson 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. Peterson also provides comprehensive general dental care with various certified levels of sedation (such as nitrous oxide/'laughing gas', oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on specific qualifications) to help anxious patients, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals undergoing extensive procedures feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable throughout their dental treatment. Dr. Peterson further offers facial esthetic treatments using therapeutic neuromodulators (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin® for bruxism, TMJ pain, or cosmetic enhancement of the upper face such as frown lines and crow's feet) and/or dermal fillers to complement dental aesthetics, address facial harmony, and rejuvenate facial appearance, based on their specific certified training levels. For patient convenience, direct billing to many major dental insurance plans may be available at the clinic.
Dr. Brent J. Peterson earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Peterson brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Peterson offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Facial Esthetic Services (Neuromodulators & Dermal Fillers) and General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. Dr. Peterson is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Peterson remains at the forefront of advancements in dental technology and treatment techniques, enabling them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable care possible.
Key aspects of Dr. Peterson's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Peterson provides consultations in English.
Dr. Brent J. Peterson provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:
Common Dental Issues
- Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.
- Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
- Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.
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): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.
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): Early to moderate stages of gum disease involving some bone loss around teeth, managed by GPs with deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance.
Gag Reflex Management
- Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Seeking strategies, desensitization techniques, or appropriate sedation options to manage a strong gag reflex during necessary dental care.
This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Peterson. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.
- Non-Surgical TMJ/TMD Therapies & Conservative Management: Providing evidence-based, non-surgical treatments aimed at alleviating TMJ symptoms, reducing muscle tension, improving jaw function, and restoring comfort.
- Dental Sealants: Application of a thin, protective coating to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to seal out food particles and bacteria, preventing cavities in deep grooves and pits.
- Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.
- Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Removable prosthetic solutions, including conventional and implant-retained options, to effectively replace missing teeth, thereby improving oral function, facial support, and overall appearance.
- Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Peterson. 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. Brent J. Peterson adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).
At Dr. Brent J. Peterson'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. Peterson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:
- Dr. Peterson expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of a wish to improve the aesthetics of their smile for an upcoming special life event, such as a wedding or graduation. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by achieving straighter teeth and an improved bite with discreet clear aligner therapy, means they can happily and comfortably get back to replacing missing teeth and feeling whole again, with a complete and functional smile.
- Overcoming or effectively managing experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease is a common journey for patients under Dr. Peterson's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling a tooth that had become painfully sensitive to sweet foods now feeling completely normal and comfortable, so that daily routines and pleasures like being able to focus on their passions and pursuits without the constant background noise of dental issues become straightforward again.
- Patients frequently come to Dr. Peterson with concerns about one of their teeth starting to feel a bit loose or wobbly. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve feeling significantly more relaxed and calm during dental visits due to effective anxiety management strategies or sedation, making a positive and lasting return to delivering important presentations or public speeches with clarity and self-assurance not just possible, but highly feasible.
- For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of an old dental filling falling out or a crown feeling loose, unstable, or detaching, Dr. Peterson offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their lost filling or crown being promptly and durably replaced, protecting the tooth. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of smiling confidently in photos and social situations without any self-consciousness.
Your personalized dental treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Peterson, will be carefully designed to help you reach your specific functional, aesthetic, and overall oral wellness objectives. Dr. Peterson is committed to empowering patients with the information and high-quality care needed to achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile for life.
Dr. Peterson's practice, a dental office in Lethbridge, is situated in the Downtown Lethbridge, South Lethbridge East neighborhood of Lethbridge. The clinic is conveniently located near the University of Lethbridge and is accessible via Lethbridge Transit. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.
- What services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Peterson typically provide?
- A General Dentist like Dr. Peterson 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, and dental sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges, and dentures), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may also offer cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening or bonding. Dr. Peterson also educates patients on proper oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists when more complex care is needed.
- Do I need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Peterson?
- No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Peterson for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with the clinic.
- Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- In Alberta, provincial health plans like the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) 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 provided by employers), or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, or social assistance recipients). It's crucial to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment.
- I'm very anxious about dental visits. Does Dr. Peterson offer any sedation options?
- Yes, Dr. Peterson understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, the clinic offers various sedation options, which may include nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Peterson during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.
- How often should I (or my child) visit Dr. Peterson for a check-up and cleaning?
- For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Peterson will recommend a personalized schedule based on your 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) while others might have slightly longer intervals. It's essential to follow Dr. Peterson's specific recommendations.
- What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Peterson at the clinic?
- Your first visit with Dr. Peterson 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. Peterson will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed during this visit or scheduled for a subsequent appointment.
- 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 (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Peterson 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).
821 3 Ave S
Lethbridge, AB, T1J 0H8
Dr. Brent J. Peterson is a licensed Dentist in AB, regulated by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) under the Health Professions Act (Alberta).
Registration can typically be verified through the website of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).
Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining overall health. Dr. Peterson 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.