Dr. Dean W. Higson

Dr. Dean W. Higson 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

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

Dental Anxiety Phobia

• History of Traumatic Dental Experiences: Needing a dentist who can help overcome fear stemming from prior difficult experiences and rebuild trust.
• Fear or Anxiety about Dental Visits/Procedures: Experiencing significant dental anxiety or phobia that makes it difficult to seek or undergo necessary dental treatment.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.

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.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.

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

• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Thorough dental cleanings by a registered dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and surface stains, promoting healthy gums and teeth.
• Fluoride Treatments: Application of topical fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel, prevent demineralization, and reduce the risk of cavities, especially for children and at-risk adults.
• Nitrous Oxide Sedation ('Laughing Gas'): Administering a controlled mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen through a comfortable nasal mask for mild anxiolysis (anxiety reduction) and relaxation during dental procedures; suitable for both adults and children with mild to moderate dental apprehension.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Guidance on the best tools and methods for cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly to prevent dental problems.

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

At Dr. Dean W. Higson'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. Higson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Higson often consults with patients whose needing a completely new set of dentures because their old ones were very worn out, ill-fitting, and no longer functional significantly limits their enjoyment of maintaining a youthful appearance complemented by a healthy and attractive smile or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve their child stopping their thumb-sucking habit with supportive guidance, protecting their dental development and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• When simply needing a routine, comprehensive dental check-up and a thorough professional cleaning begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Higson helps patients strive for experiencing relief from facial pain after the dental contributions were identified and managed. This makes participating in activities such as resuming hobbies that require concentration, now free from dental pain a pleasant and possible experience again.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for looking for a new family dentist who could provide comprehensive care for all members of their family, from children to adults at Dr. Higson's practice is consistently achieving their old, failing crown being replaced with a new, perfectly fitting, and aesthetic restoration. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as enjoying the sensation of a clean, healthy mouth after every meal and hygiene routine.
• If a desire for professional advice on how to effectively stop their child's cavities from getting worse or prevent new ones from forming is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Higson develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their infected tooth being successfully saved from extraction through root canal treatment. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy their TMJ comfort allowing them to yawn, laugh, and speak without restriction or pain.

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

Dr. Higson's practice is a dental office conveniently located in the West Grande Prairie, Westpointe, Pinnacle Ridge neighborhood of Grande Prairie. The clinic is situated near Costco and is easily accessible via Grande Prairie Transit. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Higson 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, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may offer cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. Dr. Higson also educates patients on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs.

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

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

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

Your first visit with Dr. Higson 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. Higson 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.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Higson 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 visits every 3-4 months, while others might have slightly longer intervals. It's crucial to follow Dr. Higson's specific recommendation.

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 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). Always verify your eligibility for any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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. Higson 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).

#301, 10508 - 67 Avenue
Grande Prairie, AB, T8W 0K8

Phone: (780) 532-4661

Dr. Dean W. Higson 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. Higson 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.