Dr. Dilraj Kaur Bal – Dentist | Kamloops, BC

Dr. Dilraj Kaur Bal is a Dentist. Practicing at Aberdeen Dental Arts in Kamloops, BC, Dr. Bal is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Bal 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. Bal 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. Bal 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 Aberdeen Dental Arts.

Dr. Dilraj Kaur Bal earned a Dental Degree. With over 11 years of practice since 2014, Dr. Bal has accumulated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Bal is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Bal remains at the forefront of advancements in dental technology and treatment methodologies, consistently delivering the highest quality of patient care.

Key aspects of Dr. Bal's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Bal is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Punjabi.

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

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Emergency management of traumatic dental injuries to maximize the chances of successful reimplantation or repair.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.

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.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.

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

• Dental Crowns (Caps): Placing custom-made dental crowns (caps) to cover, protect, and strengthen damaged, weakened, extensively filled, or root-canal-treated teeth, restoring their original shape, size, and appearance.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Providing custom-made night guards (occlusal splints) to protect teeth from the effects of nocturnal bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching).
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Routine removal of teeth that are severely decayed, extensively damaged beyond restoration, very mobile due to advanced gum disease, or for orthodontic purposes, performed under local anesthesia when the tooth is fully erupted and easily accessible.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Ensuring you fully understand your dental care plan and have all your questions answered before proceeding with any treatment, fostering informed consent.

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

At Aberdeen Dental Arts, 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. Bal frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• If an old dental filling falling out or a crown feeling loose, unstable, or detaching has unfortunately put participating actively in sports without fear of dental injury, especially with a custom mouthguard on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Bal works closely with patients towards attaining their toothache being completely resolved, allowing them to eat and sleep comfortably again, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed their gums bleeding a little almost every time they brushed or flossed with Dr. Bal's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their chipped or broken tooth being beautifully restored to its natural shape and function and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy no longer having to 'guard' a sensitive tooth when eating or drinking once more.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of ongoing concerns about bad breath that they believed might be related to a hidden dental infection or persistent gum problem, Dr. Bal offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their child feeling positive and at ease during their regular dental visits. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of enjoying the peace of mind that comes with a healthy, well-maintained mouth.
• Patients presenting with their child having a severe toothache that kept them up at night and required immediate attention can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their gums no longer bleeding during brushing, indicating healthier gum tissue under Dr. Bal's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume easily maintaining their daily oral hygiene routine without experiencing bleeding or pain without the former limitations or discomfort.

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

Aberdeen Dental Arts, where Dr. Bal practices, is situated in the Sahali North, Upper Sahali neighborhood of Kamloops. The clinic is conveniently located near the North Shore Business Improvement Area and is accessible via the Kamloops Transit System (BC Transit). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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 like Dr. Bal. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Bal identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. If unsure, check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider.

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). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check your private dental insurance details before treatment at Aberdeen Dental Arts.

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. Bal 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).

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Bal 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). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

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

Generally, every 6 months for most patients for preventative care. Dr. Bal will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months). Follow Dr. Bal's specific recommendation.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Bal at Aberdeen Dental Arts?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Bal and the team 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, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Bal will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Bal for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Aberdeen Dental Arts.

What are dental implants, and how do I know if I'm a suitable candidate?

Dental implants are small, medical-grade titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They provide a strong foundation for fixed (crowns, bridges) or removable replacement teeth (dentures). Good candidates generally have healthy gums and adequate jawbone density. Dr. Bal can perform a comprehensive assessment to evaluate your suitability. Dr. Bal can discuss implants as an option and refer you to an implant specialist if appropriate.

Aberdeen Dental Arts
1150 Hillside Drive
Kamloops, BC, V2E 2N1

Phone: (250) 828-0322

Dr. Dilraj Kaur Bal 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. Bal 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.