Dr. Brianne Donagh Henderson – Dentist | Nanaimo, BC

Dr. Brianne Donagh Henderson is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Nanaimo, BC, Dr. Henderson is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Henderson 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. Henderson 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. Henderson 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. Brianne Donagh Henderson earned a Dental Degree. With over 6 years of practice since 2019, Dr. Henderson has gained valuable clinical experience. Dr. Henderson is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Henderson 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. Henderson's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Henderson provides consultations in English.

Dr. Brianne Donagh Henderson 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

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.
• 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.

Common Dental Issues

• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.

Gum Disease Initial

• 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.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.

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

• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Personalized instruction and demonstration of proper brushing and flossing techniques to effectively remove plaque and maintain optimal oral hygiene at home.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Fabrication of custom-fitted sports mouthguards to protect teeth and jaws from injury during athletic activities.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.
• 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. Henderson. 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. Brianne Donagh Henderson adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

At Dr. Brianne Donagh Henderson'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. Henderson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients presenting with their child having a severe toothache that kept them up at night and required immediate attention can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment under Dr. Henderson's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume their ability to savor the flavors of food being enhanced due to a healthy mouth without the former limitations or discomfort.
• Effectively addressing a tooth that suddenly felt rough, had a sharp or jagged edge, or was causing irritation with Dr. Henderson's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of feeling confident in their ability to maintain excellent oral hygiene at home with improved techniques, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in easily flossing and brushing without encountering pain or bleeding from their gums and social interactions.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Henderson when they first notice their breath not feeling consistently fresh or clean even immediately after brushing and flossing. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their infected tooth being successfully saved from extraction through root canal treatment, enabling them to once again enjoy no longer needing to take frequent pain medication for dental issues without hesitation.
• Understanding the frustration a wish to improve the aesthetics of their smile for an upcoming special life event, such as a wedding or graduation can cause, Dr. Henderson tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve finding a welcoming and skilled dental practice capable of caring for their entire family's needs, allowing for renewed participation in activities like replacing missing teeth and feeling whole again, with a complete and functional smile.

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

Dr. Henderson's practice, a dental office in Nanaimo, is situated in the South Nanaimo, University District neighborhood of Nanaimo. The clinic is conveniently located near Vancouver Island University (VIU) and is accessible via Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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 for the general population. 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, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, or social assistance recipients). It's essential to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before beginning treatment.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Henderson is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages. They offer a wide range of services, including preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may offer cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). General Dentists also educate patients on proper oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists when more complex care is needed.

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 and drinks, especially between meals. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings with Dr. Henderson are essential for early detection and prevention. Dr. Henderson may also recommend dental sealants or professional fluoride treatments for added protection, particularly for children.

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 to further minimize exposure. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Henderson 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 should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Henderson at the clinic?

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

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Henderson will recommend a personalized schedule based on your 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. Henderson's specific recommendations.

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

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

521 Deering Street
Nanaimo, BC, V9R 6Y2

Phone: (250) 754-1949

Dr. Brianne Donagh Henderson 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. Henderson 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.