Dr. Dallin R. Kay

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

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Seeking a dental provider experienced in managing the oral health of children with complex medical histories.
• 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 Pain Emergency

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Providing immediate care for teeth that have been knocked out (avulsed), dislodged, or fractured due to an accident or injury, aiming to save the tooth if possible.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.

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. Kay. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Dental Crowns (Caps): Durable and aesthetic crowns designed to restore the form, function, and integrity of significantly damaged or endodontically treated teeth.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.
• Professional Teeth Whitening (In-Office & Take-Home Kits): Offering safe and effective in-office (chairside) or custom-fitted take-home teeth whitening (bleaching) treatments to significantly brighten your smile and remove extrinsic and some intrinsic stains.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Nutritional advice tailored to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent dental diseases.
• Dermal Filler Treatments for Facial Rejuvenation & Contouring (If Certified): Providing safe and effective facial rejuvenation and contouring options with dermal fillers, focusing on subtle, natural-looking enhancements that complement your dental aesthetics.

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

At Dr. Dallin R. Kay'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. Kay frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Through Dr. Kay's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from their gums appearing red, swollen, or inflamed in certain areas of their mouth often find they can readily achieve clarity on their child's dental eruption sequence and any potential developmental concerns and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like being able to use their teeth for all normal functions without a second thought.
• Understanding the frustration a persistent toothache that just wouldn't quit for them can cause, Dr. Kay tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their receding gums being stabilized or treated, protecting their tooth roots, allowing for renewed participation in activities like enjoying a wide variety of their favorite foods, including crunchy apples or a juicy steak, without pain or difficulty.
• If their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession is preventing you from fully enjoying actively engaging in conversations without being preoccupied by a dental concern or causing discomfort, Dr. Kay offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve a noticeable reduction or cessation of gum bleeding when flossing, indicating improved gingival health through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Kay to see patients who were troubled by wondering if their child would likely need orthodontic treatment in the future based on their current dental development successfully achieve their jaw no longer clicking or popping painfully, and jaw movement feeling smoother. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like being able to eat in public restaurants without anxiety about their teeth or dentures.

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

Dr. Kay's practice, a dental office in Medicine Hat, is situated in the NE Crescent Heights, Ranchlands neighborhood of Medicine Hat. The clinic is conveniently located near Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede Grounds and is accessible via Medicine Hat Transit. Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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 taken only when diagnostically necessary, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Kay 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. Kay at the clinic?

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

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Kay 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. Kay for a check-up and cleaning?

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Kay will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions. For example, some patients 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. Kay's specific recommendation.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Kay 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. Dr. Kay may offer specialized services in areas like Comprehensive General Dentistry based on additional training.

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

In Alberta, provincial health plans like the 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). Always check the details of your private dental insurance and verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for before starting treatment.

100 4979 Southlands Dr SE
Medicine Hat, AB, T1B 0T8

Phone: (403) 905-0522

Dr. Dallin R. Kay 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. Kay 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.