Dr. Christopher Tsong Chan – Dentist | Maple Ridge, BC

Dr. Christopher Tsong Chan is a Orthodontist. Practicing at a orthodontist practice in Maple Ridge, BC, Dr. Chan is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Chan 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 Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Chan focuses exclusively on the diagnosis, prevention, interception, and comprehensive treatment of malocclusions (improper bites), misaligned teeth, and jaw irregularities using a full range of orthodontic appliances including braces, clear aligners, and retainers for children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Chan 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 Tsong Chan earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Chan brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Chan is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment to professional development ensures Dr. Chan remains at the forefront of orthodontic advancements, benefiting their patients with the latest techniques and technologies.

Key aspects of Dr. Chan's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Chan is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Cantonese and French.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Christopher Tsong Chan addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Requiring advanced three-dimensional imaging to precisely visualize teeth, bone structures, nerve pathways, sinuses, and TMJ in intricate detail.

Crowding Spacing Teeth

• Crowded, Overlapped, or Excessively Spaced Teeth: Seeking orthodontic treatment to align crowded teeth for improved hygiene and appearance, or to close unsightly spaces for a more uniform smile.

Overbite Underbite Crossbite

• Specific Bite Problems: Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite, Open Bite: Addressing various anteroposterior, vertical, or transverse bite problems through specialized orthodontic care.

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

• Comprehensive Orthodontic Diagnosis & Treatment Planning: Detailed consultations to discuss all aspects of orthodontic care, including treatment duration, appliance options, and expected outcomes.
• Clear Aligner Therapy (e.g., Invisalign®, Spark™): Aesthetic and comfortable alternative to traditional braces for correcting various alignment and bite issues.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Ensuring you fully understand your dental care plan and have all your questions answered before proceeding with any treatment, fostering informed consent.
• Traditional Metal & Ceramic Braces: Classic and aesthetic brace options for comprehensive orthodontic correction in children, teens, and adults.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.

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

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

• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of a tooth that suddenly felt rough, had a sharp or jagged edge, or was causing irritation, Dr. Chan offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their teeth feeling more stable and their bite more aligned after corrective treatment. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of being able to use their teeth for all normal functions without a second thought.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed waking up frequently with a sore jaw, facial muscle tenderness, or tension headaches, possibly from teeth grinding with Dr. Chan's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their problematic wisdom tooth being removed, alleviating pain and preventing future issues and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy feeling good about their overall appearance and the positive first impression their smile makes once more.
• Through Dr. Chan's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from their child having a severe toothache that kept them up at night and required immediate attention often find they can readily achieve their bite feeling more comfortable and balanced after necessary adjustments or restorations and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like their child actively participating in preventative dental care and understanding its importance.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for a wisdom tooth starting to cause significant pain, pressure, or signs of infection at Dr. Chan's practice is consistently achieving their lost tooth being promptly replaced, preventing undesirable shifting of adjacent teeth and maintaining smile aesthetics. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as confidently eating sticky or chewy foods without fear of dislodging restorations or dentures.

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

Dr. Chan's practice is a dental office conveniently located in the Central Maple Ridge, Haney neighborhood of Maple Ridge. The clinic is situated near Maple Ridge City Hall and is easily accessible via TransLink (Bus, West Coast Express). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

How long does orthodontic treatment (e.g., braces, Invisalign®) usually take with Dr. Chan?

The duration of orthodontic treatment varies significantly depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the patient's age, the type of appliance used (braces or Invisalign®), and the patient's cooperation in following the treatment plan. While average treatment times can range from 12 to 36 months, Dr. Chan will provide a personalized estimate after a thorough orthodontic assessment and discussion of your specific needs.

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

For most patients, check-up and cleaning appointments are generally recommended every six months as part of preventative care. However, Dr. Chan will personalize your appointment schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may require more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months) if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between appointments. It is crucial to follow Dr. Chan's specific recommendations for your optimal oral health.

What are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?

Early signs of gum disease (gingivitis) often include red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums (especially when brushing or flossing), and sometimes persistent bad breath. If gum disease progresses to periodontitis, you might notice receding gums (teeth appearing longer), pus between teeth and gums, loose teeth, or changes in your bite. If you observe any of these symptoms, it's important to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Chan promptly.

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 always used to minimize any potential exposure. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or to plan complex treatments. Dr. Chan will determine the appropriate frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, always adhering to the principle of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Chan and the team will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. You will be asked to fill out a medical history form, and you will have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have. This will be followed by a detailed examination of your mouth, and digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this initial assessment, Dr. Chan will explain their findings and discuss any recommended treatments. This is a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Chan 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 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. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered under specific circumstances. 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, social assistance recipients). It's essential 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.

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

102-22337 Lougheed Hwy
Maple Ridge, BC, V2X 2T3

Phone: (604) 467-6607

Dr. Christopher Tsong Chan is a licensed Orthodontist 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. Chan 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.