Dr. David Patricio Alfaro

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Prosthodontics, Dr. David Patricio Alfaro addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Missing Teeth Full Arch Replacement

• Complete Edentulism (All Teeth Missing) or Failing Full Dentition Requiring Full-Arch Replacement: Specialist care in providing predictable and highly functional full-arch tooth replacement solutions.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.

Advanced Cosmetic Dental Needs

• Desire for Highly Aesthetic or Complex Cosmetic Smile Makeover (Specialist Prosthodontic Level): High aesthetic expectations for cosmetic dental outcomes that necessitate specialist-level diagnostic acumen (smile analysis, facial aesthetics), meticulous planning, and precise execution of restorative procedures.

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

• Full Mouth Reconstruction & Rehabilitation: A multidisciplinary approach (often coordinating with other specialists) to rehabilitate oral function, comfort, and appearance in patients with extensive dental problems.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Dedicated time to review diagnostic findings, explain recommended procedures, and collaboratively create a dental care strategy that meets your needs and goals.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Comprehensive advice on preventing gum inflammation and infection for lifelong oral health and overall well-being.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• 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. Alfaro. 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 Patricio Alfaro adhere to scope of practice for Prosthodontists in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Prosthodontics, Dr. Alfaro is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Nelson Avenue Dental, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• The primary focus for patients seeking help for a single tooth that had become noticeably darker in color than the adjacent teeth, possibly after trauma at Dr. Alfaro's practice is consistently achieving the dark spot on their tooth being treated, preventing a larger cavity from forming. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as their child being able_to focus on learning and playing without the interruption of dental pain.
• Many people seek Dr. Alfaro's professional help and expertise when dealing with their teeth feeling overly sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently their lost tooth being promptly replaced, preventing undesirable shifting of adjacent teeth and maintaining smile aesthetics, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to feeling great about their smile in photographs and videos.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing a dental problem that was causing significant difficulty or pain when they tried to eat certain types of foods, involves working systematically towards a noticeable reduction or cessation of gum bleeding when flossing, indicating improved gingival health. Dr. Alfaro expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including delivering important presentations or public speeches with clarity and self-assurance.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of a need for a professional dental opinion on a growth, unusual spot, or texture change in their mouth that they discovered, Dr. Alfaro offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach finding a welcoming and skilled dental practice capable of caring for their entire family's needs. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort.

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

Dr. Alfaro's practice, Nelson Avenue Dental, is situated in a central location within the Nelson neighborhood of Nelson. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Alfaro 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).

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

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

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Alfaro at Nelson Avenue Dental?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Alfaro and the team at Nelson Avenue Dental 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. Alfaro will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

My dentures are loose and uncomfortable. Can a Prosthodontist like Dr. Alfaro help improve their fit and function?

Yes, a Prosthodontist like Dr. Alfaro specializes in creating and fitting dentures. Dr. Alfaro can assess existing dentures for relines or adjustments, or design new, better-fitting conventional dentures or explore options like implant-supported dentures for significantly improved stability and comfort.

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. Alfaro 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.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Alfaro for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Nelson Avenue Dental.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

In BC, provincial health plans (like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC) 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, social assistance recipients). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

Nelson Avenue Dental
623 Nelson Ave
Nelson, BC, V1L 2N4

Phone: (250) 354-4244

Dr. David Patricio Alfaro is a licensed Prosthodontist 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. Alfaro 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.