Dr. Christine H. Bell – Dentist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Christine H. Bell is a Pediatric Dentist. Practicing at a pediatric dentist practice in Calgary, AB, Dr. Bell is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Bell 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. As a certified specialist in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Bell provides comprehensive and specialized preventative and therapeutic oral health care exclusively for infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special health care needs. This includes behavior guidance, sedation, and treatment of early childhood caries and developmental dental issues. Dr. Bell 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. Christine H. Bell earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Bell brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Additionally, this specialist holds certifications/authorizations for: Modality 1.0 Nitrous Oxide Sedation; Modality 2.0 Nitrous Oxide Sedation. Dr. Bell is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Bell's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Bell provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Christine H. Bell addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Childhood Dental Conditions

• Comprehensive Dental Needs of Infants, Children, and Adolescents: Seeking a pediatric dental specialist for comprehensive preventative (cleanings, fluoride, sealants), restorative (fillings, crowns for primary teeth), and emergency dental care for young patients.

Dental Development Issues

• Anomalies or Delays in Tooth Development or Eruption Sequence: Concerns about significantly delayed eruption of primary or permanent teeth, congenitally missing teeth (hypodontia), supernumerary (extra) teeth, or teeth that are abnormally shaped, sized (microdontia/macrodontia), or positioned.

Early Childhood Caries

• Aggressive Tooth Decay (Cavities) in Infants & Toddlers (ECC): Managing extensive cavities in baby teeth, often requiring comprehensive restorative treatment (fillings, crowns, pulp therapy) and intensive preventative strategies (dietary counseling, fluoride, hygiene modification) to prevent further decay, pain, infection, and ensure proper development and function of both primary and permanent dentitions.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• 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.
• 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.

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

• Comprehensive Oral Health Care for Infants, Children & Adolescents: Tailored dental services to meet the unique needs of growing smiles, from first tooth to teenage years.
• Dental Care for Children with Special Health Care Needs: A dedicated and patient approach to ensure all children, regardless of ability, receive optimal dental care in a supportive setting.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Providing information about the causes, signs, and stages of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), and how to prevent or manage it effectively.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Bell is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Christine H. Bell's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• For individuals troubled by needing a completely new set of dentures because their old ones were very worn out, ill-fitting, and no longer functional, Dr. Bell's approach is focused on delivering feeling a renewed sense of confidence in their smile and overall appearance. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like showing off a brighter, more youthful smile after cosmetic treatments with a healthier smile.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Bell when they first notice a desire to explore more permanent or stable options for replacing all of their missing teeth effectively. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their child overcoming dental anxiety and successfully completing needed dental treatment, enabling them to once again enjoy their smile being ready for any impromptu photo opportunity or social media post without hesitation.
• Patients presenting with a tooth that had become very dark or discolored, perhaps after a past injury or previous root canal treatment can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of having a custom-fitted sports mouthguard to protect their smile during athletic activities under Dr. Bell's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume no longer having to worry about a loose crown or bridge when they are out without the former limitations or discomfort.
• If a tooth getting accidentally knocked out or avulsed during a sports game or accident is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Bell develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their recurrent canker sores becoming less frequent or less severe with management strategies. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy maintaining fresh breath, which improves their social and professional interactions.

Your specialized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Bell, will be meticulously designed to address your unique concerns and help you reach your specific objectives within their area of expertise. Dr. Bell is committed to providing the highest standard of specialized care, tailored to your individual needs.

Dr. Bell's practice is a dental office in Calgary, situated in the NW: Tuscany, Scenic Acres neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near the University of Calgary and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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. Bell. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Bell identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. If unsure, check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider.

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 always check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Bell 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. Bell 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.

How does Dr. Bell as a Pediatric Dentist manage children with dental anxiety or special healthcare needs?

Dr. Bell's specialized training includes behavior guidance techniques (tell-show-do, positive reinforcement, distraction), creating a child-friendly environment, and experience with patients with various needs. Options like nitrous oxide may be available, or Dr. Bell can coordinate referral for deeper sedation/GA if needed. The approach is always patient and gentle.

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

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

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

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Bell 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, while others might have slightly longer intervals). Follow Dr. Bell'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 using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Bell will determine the frequency based on your individual needs, adhering to guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

14 Sage Hill Passage NW, Children's Dental Health Centre
Calgary, AB, T3R 0S4

Phone: (403) 930-0270

Dr. Christine H. Bell is a licensed Pediatric 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. Bell 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.