Dr. Darrell A. Gotaas

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Darrell A. Gotaas 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): Complex dental cases that significantly benefit from the superior diagnostic information and precise measurements provided by CBCT scans for optimal treatment outcomes.

Jaw Facial Trauma Pathology

• Jaw Cysts, Tumors, or Other Oral Pathological Lesions Requiring Surgical Diagnosis & Management by OMS: Diagnosis and surgical treatment of a wide spectrum of benign or malignant cysts, tumors (odontogenic or non-odontogenic), and other pathological conditions affecting the jawbones (maxilla, mandible) and oral soft tissues, typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. This includes incisional or excisional biopsy for histopathological diagnosis and definitive surgical removal or management of the lesion.
• Facial Injuries, Lacerations, or Jaw Fractures Requiring Surgical Repair by OMS: Seeking expert emergency and reconstructive care for complex facial trauma resulting from accidents, assaults, or sports injuries.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

• Symptomatic or Problematic Impacted Wisdom Teeth (Third Molars): Addressing common and often painful issues associated with wisdom teeth that necessitate surgical intervention for resolution.

Oral Cysts Tumors Diagnosis

• Presence of Cysts or Tumors in the Jawbones or Oral Soft Tissues: Identification of abnormal growths, swellings, or radiolucencies/opacities on X-rays or CBCT scans that are suspected to be cysts (e.g., dentigerous cyst, radicular cyst, keratocyst) or tumors (benign or malignant) of the oral and maxillofacial region, requiring biopsy and specialist management.

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

• Surgical Removal of Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Specialized surgical techniques for the safe and efficient removal of difficult or deeply impacted wisdom teeth.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.
• Dental Implant Surgical Placement & Bone Grafting: Expertise in the surgical aspects of implant dentistry, including site preparation and precise implant insertion.
• Office-Based Anesthesia & Sedation for Oral Surgery (All Levels): Providing a full spectrum of sedation and anesthesia options (local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, oral sedation, IV conscious sedation, deep sedation, general anesthesia) in an office or hospital setting to ensure patient comfort and safety during oral surgery procedures.
• Advanced Surgical Diagnostic Imaging (CBCT, CT for OMS): State-of-the-art imaging to guide complex surgical procedures and enhance treatment outcomes.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Gotaas. 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. Darrell A. Gotaas adhere to scope of practice for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

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

• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of their partner mentioning that they snored very loudly or seemed to stop breathing momentarily during sleep (a possible sign of sleep apnea requiring a dental appliance referral), Dr. Gotaas offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach successfully replacing their missing tooth with a strong, natural-looking dental implant. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of their child understanding the importance of regular dental check-ups for a lifetime of health.
• Understanding the frustration wanting to learn the best and most effective way to clean around their existing dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances can cause, Dr. Gotaas tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their lost filling or crown being promptly and durably replaced, protecting the tooth, allowing for renewed participation in activities like travelling and trying new cuisines without fear of unexpected dental emergencies.
• When an impacted tooth (often a wisdom tooth) that their previous dentist had mentioned might require monitoring or future attention begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Gotaas helps patients strive for their previously loose tooth feeling stable and secure after treatment. This makes participating in activities such as feeling comfortable with close-up interactions and conversations a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Through Dr. Gotaas'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 their child's dental emergency being handled swiftly and compassionately, minimizing distress and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like feeling that their dental health fully supports their active and engaged lifestyle.

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

Dr. Gotaas's practice, a dental office in Edmonton, is situated in the SW: McKernan, Belgravia, Parkallen neighborhood of Edmonton. The clinic is conveniently located near Fringe Festival Area and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

For most adults and children, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Gotaas will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, those managing active gum disease or at high risk for cavities might need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months), while patients with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Gotaas's specific recommendations.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Gotaas 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 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. 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 through government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). It is crucial to check your eligibility for any potential public coverage and review your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before treatment.

What should I do if I have a dental emergency outside of our clinic's regular office hours?

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency (e.g., severe uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing due to facial swelling, significant facial trauma), go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911 immediately. For urgent dental issues that are not life-threatening but require prompt attention outside of our clinic’s hours (such as severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, a dental abscess with moderate swelling, or a broken tooth causing sharp pain), please call our main office number at (780) 437-6777. Our voicemail message may provide instructions for emergency contact with Dr. Gotaas or another on-call dentist, or direct you to an emergency dental service available in the Edmonton area.

What is the typical recovery like after wisdom tooth removal or other oral surgery by Dr. Gotaas?

Recovery varies depending on the complexity of the surgery. Dr. Gotaas will provide detailed post-operative instructions regarding pain management, swelling control, diet, oral hygiene, and activity restrictions. Some initial discomfort and swelling are common for a few days to a week, but most patients resume normal activities relatively quickly. Following all post-operative advice is crucial for optimal healing.

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. 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. Gotaas 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. Gotaas at the clinic?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Gotaas and the team will get to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, discuss dental issues or goals, and undergo a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Gotaas will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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, a referral from a general dentist like Dr. Gotaas is often recommended or required by the specialist or insurance plans. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Gotaas identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance if unsure.

100, 5555 Calgary Trail South
Edmonton, AB, T6H 5P9

Phone: (780) 437-6777

Dr. Darrell A. Gotaas is a licensed Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon 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. Gotaas 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.