Dr. Brett R. Holt

Dr. Brett R. Holt provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Dental Anxiety Phobia

• Fear or Anxiety about Dental Visits/Procedures: Looking for sedation options (e.g., nitrous oxide, oral sedation, IV sedation) or other strategies to manage anxiety during dental care.
• History of Traumatic Dental Experiences: Seeking a compassionate, gentle, and communicative approach to dental care due to previous trauma.

Extensive Dental Treatment Needs

• Requiring Multiple or Lengthy Dental Procedures: Patients with extensive restorative, surgical, or cosmetic needs who may benefit from sedation for a more manageable and positive dental experience.

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.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Requiring specialized dental management and a tailored care approach for children and adolescents with underlying medical conditions (e.g., congenital heart disease, bleeding disorders, immunocompromise), physical disabilities (e.g., cerebral palsy), cognitive or developmental challenges (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome), or significant behavioral issues that make routine dental treatment difficult.
• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Children with significant systemic health conditions (e.g., organ transplants, cancer, uncontrolled diabetes) who require careful dental management and coordination with their medical specialists to prevent oral complications and ensure dental treatments are performed safely.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Holt. 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.
• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Conservative and durable restorations used to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage that is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a full coverage crown.
• 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.
• Oral Conscious Sedation (Anxiolysis): Utilizing carefully selected oral medications to help patients achieve a comfortable, calm, and stress-free dental experience, facilitating necessary treatment for apprehensive individuals.
• Dental Sealants: A simple and effective preventative measure to reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Holt. 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. Brett R. Holt adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

At Dr. Brett R. Holt'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. Holt frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The primary focus for patients seeking help for wanting to learn the best and most effective way to clean around their existing dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances at Dr. Holt's practice is consistently achieving their jaw feeling less stiff and more mobile after TMJ therapy or a custom oral appliance. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as their smile being ready for any impromptu photo opportunity or social media post.
• Dr. Holt understands that dealing with a persistent white patch (leukoplakia) or red patch (erythroplakia) in their mouth or on their tongue that wouldn't go away and needed urgent assessment can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving gaining clarity about their child's future orthodontic needs and the optimal timing for any potential treatment, helping patients comfortably get back to playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort and feeling their best.
• Understanding the frustration concerns about potential hereditary dental problems or conditions present in their family history can cause, Dr. Holt tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve finding a dental team that understands and effectively manages their dental nervousness, allowing for renewed participation in activities like their child actively participating in preventative dental care and understanding its importance.
• If wondering if their child would likely need orthodontic treatment in the future based on their current dental development has unfortunately put showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Holt works closely with patients towards attaining feeling refreshed and clean after a thorough professional dental cleaning and check-up, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.

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

Dr. Holt's practice, a dental office in Cardston, is situated in a central location within the Cardston neighborhood of Cardston. 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 cosmetic dentistry options might Dr. Holt offer to improve the appearance of my smile?

Dr. Holt focuses on comprehensive general dentistry for overall oral health. While many restorative procedures also have excellent aesthetic outcomes, if you have specific advanced cosmetic concerns, they can discuss basic aesthetic improvements available or provide a referral to a dentist specializing in cosmetic procedures or a prosthodontist if more advanced treatment is desired.

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

Yes, Dr. Holt understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, our clinic may offer various sedation options. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Holt during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

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

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. Holt.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Holt 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.

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

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

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

Generally, every 6 months is recommended for most patients for preventative care. However, Dr. Holt 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 if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals). It is important to follow Dr. Holt's specific recommendation.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

In AB, provincial health plans (like 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 through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and check your private dental insurance details before 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 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. Holt 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).

572 3 St W
Cardston, AB, T0K 0K0

Phone: (403) 553-3359

Dr. Brett R. Holt 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. Holt 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.