Dr. Dominika Kovaleva

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

Common Dental Issues

• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.

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

• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Utilizing advanced digital X-ray technology (e.g., bitewings, periapicals, panoramic X-rays) for safe and precise diagnosis of dental conditions.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.
• 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.
• 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.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Repairing cavities and minor tooth defects with durable, natural-looking composite resin fillings that blend seamlessly with your existing teeth.

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

At Driftwood Dental, 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. Kovaleva frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• At Dr. Kovaleva's clinic, addressing experiencing a persistently dry mouth (xerostomia) feeling, making it uncomfortable to speak or swallow means focusing on patient goals. Achieving their breath feeling consistently fresh and clean due to improved oral health helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to simply relaxing and not having dental pain or problems on their mind constantly.
• Dr. Kovaleva provides dedicated support for patients going through persistent bad breath (halitosis) that didn't seem to improve despite good hygiene, always aiming for positive outcomes like transitioning from a removable partial denture to a more permanent and comfortable tooth replacement option, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as enjoying a corn on the cob or biting into a crisp apple without hesitation.
• Dr. Kovaleva expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their dentures no longer causing sore spots, allowing them to eat and speak with ease, means they can happily and comfortably get back to their children being able to enjoy treats in moderation without an excessive fear of immediate cavities due to good preventative care.
• Understanding the frustration their partner mentioning that they snored very loudly or seemed to stop breathing momentarily during sleep (a possible sign of sleep apnea requiring a dental appliance referral) can cause, Dr. Kovaleva tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their jaw feeling less stiff and more mobile after TMJ therapy or a custom oral appliance, allowing for renewed participation in activities like showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion.

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

Driftwood Dental, where Dr. Kovaleva practices, is situated in the Courtenay City, Comox, Cumberland, Rural Comox Valley neighborhood of Courtenay. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near Downtown Courtenay and is easily accessible via the Comox Valley Transit System (BC Transit). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

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

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. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is crucial to check your eligibility for any public coverage and to review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before beginning treatment at Driftwood Dental.

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

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

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Kovaleva will personalize your schedule based on your 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. Always follow Dr. Kovaleva's specific recommendations.

What are the most effective ways to prevent cavities (tooth decay)?

Preventing cavities involves consistent home care and regular professional visits. Brush your teeth for two minutes twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, limit sugary foods and drinks, and attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings at Driftwood Dental. Dr. Kovaleva may also recommend dental sealants or fluoride applications for added protection, particularly for children.

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 only taken when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan treatments). Dr. Kovaleva will determine the frequency based on your individual needs and risk factors, following the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Kovaleva at Driftwood Dental?

Your first visit will involve completing a medical history form, discussing your dental concerns and goals with Dr. Kovaleva, and undergoing a thorough examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Kovaleva will then explain their findings and recommend any necessary treatment.

Driftwood Dental
10-2401 Cliffe Ave
Courtenay, BC, V9N 2L5

Phone: (250) 338-5381

Dr. Dominika Kovaleva 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. Kovaleva 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.