Dr. Derek Charles Wilden – Dentist | 100 Mile House, BC

Dr. Derek Charles Wilden is a Dentist. Practicing at South Cariboo Dental Clinic in 100 Mile House, BC, Dr. Wilden is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Wilden 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. Wilden 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. Wilden 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 South Cariboo Dental Clinic.

Dr. Derek Charles Wilden earned a Dental Degree. With over 33 years of practice since 1992, Dr. Wilden has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Wilden is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment to professional development ensures that Dr. Wilden remains at the forefront of advancements in dental technology and treatment techniques, benefiting all patients under their care.

Key aspects of Dr. Wilden's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Wilden provides consultations in English.

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

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Tooth decay in infants and young children, often affecting the upper front teeth, requiring early intervention and preventative strategies.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.

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): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.

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

• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Gentle and efficient extraction of problematic teeth when deemed necessary to maintain overall oral health, resolve infection, or alleviate persistent pain.
• 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.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Essential maintenance services to extend the life and performance of your dentures, ensuring they continue to serve you well and comfortably.
• 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.

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

At South Cariboo Dental Clinic, 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. Wilden frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When a dental problem that was causing significant difficulty or pain when they tried to eat certain types of foods begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Wilden helps patients strive for their concerns about chronic bad breath being fully addressed through identification and treatment of the underlying dental or oral cause. This makes participating in activities such as kissing their loved ones with confidence and without oral discomfort a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Patients experiencing feeling like their teeth were gradually shifting position or their bite was changing noticeably over time often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Wilden's practice, a key objective is their dentures fitting much more comfortably and securely, improving their ability to eat and speak, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in no longer avoiding certain social situations because of how they feel about their teeth.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Wilden to see patients who were troubled by an old dental crown that needed to be replaced because it was visibly worn, chipped, poorly fitting, or had decay underneath successfully achieve the dark spot on their tooth being treated, preventing a larger cavity from forming. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like their child being able to participate in classroom activities without dental distractions.
• Managing their child having a pronounced fear of needles or injections at the dental office, requiring a very patient approach effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Wilden and the dental team. The clear aim is always finding a dental team that understands and effectively manages their dental nervousness, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying their TMJ comfort allowing them to yawn, laugh, and speak without restriction or pain and their daily routines without dental hindrance.

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

South Cariboo Dental Clinic, where Dr. Wilden practices, is situated in a central location within the 100 Mile House neighborhood of 100 Mile House. 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.

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 <strong>not</strong> 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 <em>might</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients, 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). It is crucial to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before beginning treatment at South Cariboo Dental Clinic.

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

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

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Wilden at South Cariboo Dental Clinic?

Your first visit with Dr. Wilden 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. Wilden 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.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Wilden 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 include cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). Dr. Wilden also provides education on oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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. Wilden 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. Wilden for a check-up and cleaning?

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Wilden will recommend a personalized schedule based on your (or your child's) individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months), while others might have slightly longer intervals. It is important to follow Dr. Wilden's specific recommendations.

South Cariboo Dental Clinic
190 Horse Lake Rd, Box 2399
100 Mile House, BC, V0K 2E0

Phone: (250) 395-4009

Dr. Derek Charles Wilden 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. Wilden 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.