Dr. David Frank Hou – Dentist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. David Frank Hou is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Hou is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Hou 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. Hou 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. Hou 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 Frank Hou earned a Dental Degree. With over 19 years of practice since 2006, Dr. Hou has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Hou is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Hou remains at the forefront of advancements in dental technology and techniques, consistently delivering the highest standard of care to their patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Hou's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Hou is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Mandarin.

Dr. David Frank Hou 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

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.

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.
• 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: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.

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

• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Customized full and partial dentures, carefully crafted to help patients regain confidence in their smile, ability to eat a varied diet, and speak clearly.
• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): Removal of some erupted or partially erupted teeth, including some erupted wisdom teeth, that may require minor surgical techniques such as sectioning the tooth or minimal bone removal for access, depending on the dentist's training, experience, and case complexity.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Low-radiation digital radiographs to detect cavities between teeth, assess bone levels, view tooth roots, and identify other hidden dental issues.
• Dental Sealants: Protective sealants for children and adolescents to safeguard vulnerable back teeth from decay.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.

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

At Dr. David Frank Hou'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. Hou frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When patients discuss a specific tooth that had become very sensitive to sweet foods or drinks, which was a new symptom for them, Dr. Hou outlines a path to experiencing a significant reduction in jaw pain and morning headaches after treatment for teeth grinding (bruxism), aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably feeling good about their overall appearance and the positive first impression their smile makes.
• If a persistent sore spot, ulcer, or unusual lesion in their mouth that hadn't healed on its own has unfortunately put their child showing pride in their healthy smile and good brushing habits on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Hou works closely with patients towards attaining understanding the cause of their tooth wear and having a plan to prevent further damage, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• For those affected by needing a thorough dental check-up and clearance before starting a major medical treatment or undergoing surgery (e.g., cardiac surgery, organ transplant, chemotherapy), Dr. Hou provides solutions that lead to gaining clarity about their child's future orthodontic needs and the optimal timing for any potential treatment. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to enjoying the full taste of food without a metallic taste from old fillings or bad breath.
• Many people seek Dr. Hou's professional help and expertise when dealing with wondering if their child's teeth were erupting in the correct sequence and alignment for their age. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently experiencing a significant reduction or complete resolution of a dull, aching pain in their jaw joint area, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to confidently eating sticky or chewy foods without fear of dislodging restorations or dentures.

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

Dr. Hou's practice, a dental office in Vancouver, is situated in the South Cambie neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Downtown Financial District 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.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Hou is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services. These include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, and sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges, and dentures), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may also offer cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. Dr. Hou also educates patients on proper oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists when more complex care is needed.

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

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

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Hou for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with 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 only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Hou 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. Hou at the clinic?

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

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. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, 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). Always verify your eligibility for any public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

4210 Dunbar St
Vancouver, BC, V6S 2E9

Phone: (604) 733-1616

Dr. David Frank Hou 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. Hou 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.