Dr. Derek T. Fika – Dentist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Derek T. Fika is a Dentist (Facial Esthetic Injectables). Practicing at a dentist practice in Edmonton, AB, Dr. Fika is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Fika 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. Fika 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. Fika also 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. Fika 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. Dr. Fika serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.

Dr. Derek T. Fika earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Fika brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Fika offers a broad range of dental services and has particular interests and developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Facial Esthetic Services (Neuromodulators & Dermal Fillers) and General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. Dr. Fika is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Fika remains at the forefront of advancements in dentistry and can offer patients the most effective and innovative treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Fika's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Fika provides consultations in English.

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

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.
• 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.

Gag Reflex Management

• Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Seeking strategies, desensitization techniques, or appropriate sedation options to manage a strong gag reflex during necessary dental care.

Extensive Dental Treatment Needs

• Requiring Multiple or Lengthy Dental Procedures: Needing several dental treatments, complex procedures, or a particularly long single procedure, for which sedation might be beneficial for patient comfort, cooperation, and treatment efficiency.

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

• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Performing root canal therapy on infected or irreversibly inflamed tooth pulp (nerve), typically for anterior (front) teeth and premolars in uncomplicated cases, to save the natural tooth from extraction and relieve pain or infection.
• 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.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Guidance on the best tools and methods for cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly to prevent dental problems.
• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): Extraction of teeth that are not straightforward to remove due to their position, root morphology, or condition, performed within the scope of general dental practice and comfort level.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Standard tooth removal procedures for non-impacted teeth that do not require complex surgical intervention.

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

At Dr. Derek T. Fika'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. Fika frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Fika provides dedicated support for patients going through their breath not feeling consistently fresh or clean even immediately after brushing and flossing, always aiming for positive outcomes like the rough or sharp edge on their tooth being smoothed out, eliminating irritation, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as their child focusing better at school, free from the distraction of dental issues.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Fika about one of their teeth starting to feel a bit loose or wobbly is to attain receiving clear dental clearance before a major medical procedure, ensuring their overall health is prioritized. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like enjoying the full taste of food without a metallic taste from old fillings or bad breath.
• When an old dental bridge that felt loose, uncomfortable, or was showing signs of wear and tear begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Fika 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.
• When patients discuss a specific tooth that had become very sensitive to sweet foods or drinks, which was a new symptom for them, Dr. Fika outlines a path to their previously loose tooth feeling stable and secure after treatment, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort.

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

Dr. Fika's practice, a dental office in Edmonton, is situated in the N Central: Eastwood, Elmwood Park, Alberta Avenue neighborhood of Edmonton. The clinic is conveniently located near Old Strathcona Historic Area and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

For most adults and children, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Fika will personalize your schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, those managing active gum disease or at high risk for cavities may need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months), while patients with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Fika's specific recommendations.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Fika is your primary dental care provider, offering a wide range of services for all ages. This includes 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. Fika also provides education on oral hygiene and will refer you to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. Fika may offer specialized services in areas like Comprehensive General Dentistry based on additional training.

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

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. Fika.

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 only taken when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, checking for decay, assessing bone health, or planning complex treatments). Dr. Fika will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

Your first visit will involve completing a medical history form and discussing your dental concerns and goals with Dr. Fika. A thorough examination of your mouth will follow, including digital X-rays if needed. Dr. Fika will then explain their assessment and recommend any necessary treatments. This is a great opportunity to ask questions.

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

In Alberta, the provincial health plan (AHCIP) typically does NOT cover most routine or major dental procedures in private clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care is paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance (often employer-sponsored), or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). Check your eligibility for public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, annual maximums) before treatment.

12943 - 97 Street N.W.
Edmonton, AB, T5E 4C2

Phone: (780) 475-6684

Dr. Derek T. Fika 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. Fika 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.