Dr. Christopher Leslie Long – Dentist | West Vancouver, BC

Dr. Christopher Leslie Long is a Periodontist. Practicing at a periodontist practice in West Vancouver, BC, Dr. Long is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Long 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. As a certified specialist in Periodontics, Dr. Long focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) diseases, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Services include non-surgical and surgical periodontal therapies, gum grafting, bone grafting, and the surgical placement and maintenance of dental implants, as well as management of peri-implant diseases. Dr. Long 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. Christopher Leslie Long earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery. Dr. Long brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Long is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Long remains at the forefront of advancements in periodontal care, consistently employing the most effective and innovative techniques to benefit patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Long's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Long provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery, Dr. Christopher Leslie Long addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Receding Gums Bone Loss

• Significant Gum Recession or Localized Jawbone Loss Requiring Augmentation: Noticeable and progressive gum recession exposing sensitive tooth roots, or insufficient jawbone volume in areas of missing teeth (often due to previous extractions or gum disease), requiring surgical grafting procedures (soft tissue grafts for gums, bone grafts for jawbone) by a periodontist or oral surgeon to restore tissue, improve aesthetics, facilitate implant placement, or prevent further deterioration.

Severe Gingivitis

• Severe or Persistent Gingivitis Unresponsive to Routine Care: Addressing persistent gingival issues that may need more intensive non-surgical or diagnostic interventions.

Dental Implant Complications

• Complications with Existing Dental Implants (e.g., Peri-implantitis, Loosening, Fracture): Seeking expert diagnosis and management for failing or problematic dental implants to preserve their longevity or address complications effectively.

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

• Comprehensive Periodontal Examination & Diagnosis: Thorough examination of the supporting structures of the teeth to identify and manage gum-related problems.
• Surgical Periodontal Treatments (e.g., Pocket Reduction, Regenerative Procedures): Specialized periodontal surgeries aimed at controlling infection, reducing pocket depths, and regenerating periodontal support.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.
• Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy (Scaling & Root Planing): Meticulous cleaning of root surfaces to treat active gum disease and halt its progression.
• Management of Peri-Implant Diseases (Peri-Implant Mucositis & Peri-Implantitis): Diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory conditions affecting dental implants, including peri-implant mucositis (gum inflammation around implants) and peri-implantitis (gum inflammation with bone loss around implants).

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery, Dr. Long is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Christopher Leslie Long's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Understanding the frustration a specific desire to ensure their gums remained healthy and stable as they got older, preventing future problems can cause, Dr. Long tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their child's toothache being resolved, and the tooth saved with appropriate treatment, allowing for renewed participation in activities like their gums feeling healthy and looking good, contributing to overall oral wellness.
• The journey from their current partial or full denture feeling very unstable, loose, or ill-fitting, making it difficult to eat or speak with confidence to wellness often involves Dr. Long's dedicated care. The milestone is their teeth feeling more stable and their bite more aligned after corrective treatment, which opens the door back to activities such as kissing their loved ones with confidence and without oral discomfort.
• With Dr. Long's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing wanting to understand what was causing their teeth to appear worn down, shorter, or a bit translucent is focused on achieving their child's dental emergency being handled swiftly and compassionately, minimizing distress. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to their child being able_to focus on learning and playing without the interruption of dental pain without dental concerns.
• Through Dr. Long's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from their dentures frequently rubbing, causing persistent sore spots, or making it difficult to eat comfortably often find they can readily achieve their old, uncomfortable dental bridge being replaced with a well-fitting and aesthetic new one and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like their TMJ comfort allowing them to yawn, laugh, and speak without restriction or pain.

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

Dr. Long's practice is a dental office in West Vancouver, situated in the Caulfeild, Eagle Harbour neighbourhood. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near the Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal and is easily accessible via TransLink's Blue Bus service (operated by West Vancouver). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

In British Columbia, provincial health plans such as the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically do <strong>not</strong> cover routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting <em>may</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance (often provided by employers), or government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to check your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, annual maximums) before treatment.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, particularly modern digital X-rays that use minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are only taken when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Long determines the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, following guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Long will personalize your schedule based on your individual 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 may have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Long's specific recommendations.

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

Typically, no referral is needed to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. You can contact the clinic directly to arrange your visit with Dr. Long.

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

Your first visit will include a comprehensive dental examination: review of your medical and dental history; a thorough check of your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues (including oral cancer screening); and any necessary X-rays. Dr. Long will discuss findings, address concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning may also be performed or scheduled.

308 - 575 16th St
West Vancouver, BC, V7V 4Y1

Phone: (604) 922-4711

Dr. Christopher Leslie Long is a licensed Periodontist 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. Long 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.