Dr. David T. Thomas – Dentist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. David T. Thomas is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at a dentist practice in Edmonton, AB, Dr. Thomas is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Thomas is licensed by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in AB. Dr. Thomas 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. Thomas also provides comprehensive general dental care with various certified levels of sedation (such as nitrous oxide/'laughing gas', oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on specific qualifications) to help anxious patients, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals undergoing extensive procedures feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable throughout their dental treatment. Further, Dr. Thomas offers facial esthetic treatments using therapeutic neuromodulators (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin® for bruxism, TMJ pain, or cosmetic enhancement of the upper face such as frown lines and crow's feet) and/or dermal fillers to complement dental aesthetics, address facial harmony, and rejuvenate facial appearance, based on their specific certified training levels. For patient convenience, direct billing to many major dental insurance plans may be available at the clinic.

Dr. David T. Thomas earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Thomas brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Thomas offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Facial Esthetic Services (Neuromodulators & Dermal Fillers) and General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. Dr. Thomas is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Thomas's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Thomas provides consultations in English.

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

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Seeking a pediatric dental specialist or a general dentist with significant experience and resources in providing safe, effective, and compassionate dental care for children with unique and complex needs, potentially including the use of advanced behavior guidance techniques or sedation/anesthesia.
• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Specialized considerations for dental treatment in pediatric patients with underlying illnesses.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.

Tmj Disorders Bruxism

• Jaw Pain, Clicking, Popping, or Locking (TMJ Symptoms): Addressing issues related to jaw joint function, muscle strain, and associated orofacial pain.
• Limited Jaw Opening (Trismus) or Difficulty Chewing Comfortably: Addressing problems with jaw mobility and the ability to perform essential functions like eating and speaking comfortably.

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

• 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): Low-radiation digital radiographs to detect cavities between teeth, assess bone levels, view tooth roots, and identify other hidden dental issues.
• Occlusal Splints / Night Guards / Bite Guards for Bruxism & TMJ Disorders: Personalized occlusal guards designed to reduce jaw pain, headaches, and prevent further dental damage that can be caused by habitual clenching or grinding of teeth.
• Dental Sealants: Application of a thin, protective coating to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to seal out food particles and bacteria, preventing cavities in deep grooves and pits.
• Oral Conscious Sedation (Anxiolysis): Prescribing specific oral sedative medication (e.g., a benzodiazepine) to be taken shortly before dental appointments to induce a state of conscious relaxation and significantly reduce anxiety for patients undergoing more extensive, lengthy, or potentially stressful procedures.

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

At Dr. David T. Thomas'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. Thomas frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients presenting with an interest in straightening their teeth but a strong preference for avoiding traditional metal braces, exploring clear aligner options can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of a previously 'high' or uncomfortable dental filling being perfectly adjusted, restoring a comfortable and even bite under Dr. Thomas's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume enjoying the sensation of a clean, healthy mouth after every meal and hygiene routine without the former limitations or discomfort.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for a desire to explore more permanent or stable options for replacing all of their missing teeth effectively at Dr. Thomas's practice is consistently achieving their smile looking its absolute best for an important upcoming wedding, graduation, or other special event. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as no longer needing to take frequent pain medication for dental issues.
• When needing a substantial amount of dental work done and feeling quite overwhelmed by the prospect starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to biting into sandwiches or other challenging foods with complete confidence, Dr. Thomas and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by clarity on their child's dental eruption sequence and any potential developmental concerns and a return to comfort and confidence.
• Overcoming or effectively managing wondering if their child would likely need orthodontic treatment in the future based on their current dental development is a common journey for patients under Dr. Thomas's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling their teeth feeling more stable and their bite more aligned after corrective treatment, so that daily routines and pleasures like feeling comfortable and pain-free throughout their day, no longer bothered by a nagging dental problem become straightforward again.

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

Dr. Thomas's practice, a dental office in Edmonton, is situated in the S Central: University of Alberta, Garneau, Windsor Park neighborhood of Edmonton. The clinic is conveniently located near Mayfield Toyota Ice Palace and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact our clinic directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Thomas.

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

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

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

Your first visit with Dr. Thomas will typically involve a comprehensive dental examination. This includes a review of 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. Thomas will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if any care is needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

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

In AB, provincial health plans (like 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, social assistance recipients). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment.

I'm very anxious about dental visits. Does Dr. Thomas offer any sedation options?

Yes, Dr. Thomas understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, our clinic offers various sedation options, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral conscious sedation. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Thomas during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

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 between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Thomas 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. Thomas for a check-up and cleaning?

Generally, every 6 months for most patients for preventative care. Dr. Thomas 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). Follow Dr. Thomas's specific recommendation.

#330, 11044 - 82 Avenue NW
Edmonton, AB, T6G 0T2

Dr. David T. Thomas 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. Thomas 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.