Dr. David Brian Lawson – Dentist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. David Brian Lawson is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Lawson is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Lawson 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. Dr. Lawson provides a wide range of dental services for patients of all ages, including preventative care, routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, crowns, bridges, root canal treatments (non-specialist), and basic extractions, focused on maintaining overall oral health. Dr. Lawson 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. David Brian Lawson earned a Dental Degree. With over 50 years of practice since 1975, Dr. Lawson's extensive clinical experience has provided a deep understanding of patient needs and the evolution of dental techniques. Dr. Lawson is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most effective and advanced treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Lawson's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Lawson provides consultations in English.

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

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): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.

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

• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Conservative and durable restorations used to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage that is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a full coverage crown.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Educating patients on the importance of gum health and the steps they can take to maintain healthy periodontal tissues for life.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Utilizing advanced digital X-ray technology (e.g., bitewings, periapicals, panoramic X-rays) for safe and precise diagnosis of dental conditions.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.

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

At Dr. David Brian Lawson'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. Lawson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The journey from having chipped a tooth unexpectedly while eating something hard to wellness often involves Dr. Lawson's dedicated care. The milestone is their bite feeling more comfortable and balanced after necessary adjustments or restorations, which opens the door back to activities such as their smile reflecting their inner happiness and confidence.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed needing a completely new set of dentures because their old ones were very worn out, ill-fitting, and no longer functional with Dr. Lawson's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to receiving clear dental clearance before a major medical procedure, ensuring their overall health is prioritized and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy actively engaging in conversations without being preoccupied by a dental concern once more.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Lawson about experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease is to attain their breath feeling consistently fresh and clean due to improved oral health. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like their dentures feeling so secure they almost forget they are wearing them.
• At Dr. Lawson's clinic, addressing their gums bleeding a little almost every time they brushed or flossed means focusing on patient goals. Achieving their problematic wisdom tooth being removed, alleviating pain and preventing future issues helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to their child showing pride in their healthy smile and good brushing habits.

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

Dr. Lawson's practice, a dental office in Vancouver, is situated in the Kitsilano neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Stanley Park Entrance and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). 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 in private dental clinics for the general population. Some limited dental surgeries performed within a hospital setting <em>may</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or via government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., low-income families with children, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). It is crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to carefully review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-pays, deductibles, annual maximums) before beginning treatment.

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

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

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

For most individuals, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Lawson will personalize this schedule based on your specific oral health needs, risk factors (cavities, gum disease), and any existing conditions. Some patients might require more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months for active gum disease or high caries risk), while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Lawson's specific recommendations.

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

Your initial visit with Dr. Lawson will include a comprehensive dental examination. This involves reviewing 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. Lawson will discuss the findings, address your concerns, and develop a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed during this visit or scheduled for a subsequent appointment.

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

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

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Lawson is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages. Services typically include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and potentially cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also provide education on oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists for more complex needs.

603-1788 Broadway W
Vancouver, BC, V6J 1Y1

Phone: (604) 682-7174

Dr. David Brian Lawson is a licensed Dentist 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. Lawson 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.