Dr. Donald C. Yu – Dentist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Donald C. Yu is a Endodontist. Practicing at a endodontist practice in Edmonton, AB, Dr. Yu is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Yu 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. As a certified specialist in Endodontics, Dr. Yu is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries of the dental pulp (nerve) and periradicular tissues (tissues surrounding the root of a tooth). Primary services include complex root canal therapy, retreatment of previous root canals, endodontic surgery (apicoectomy), and management of traumatic dental injuries. Dr. Yu 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 the clinic.

Dr. Donald C. Yu earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Endodontics. Dr. Yu brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Yu is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Yu remains at the forefront of advancements in endodontic techniques and technologies, consistently delivering the best possible care to their patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Yu's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; 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. Yu provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Endodontics, Dr. Donald C. Yu addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.

Tooth Trauma Endo

• Traumatic Injury to Teeth Involving Pulp Exposure or Root Damage: Dental injuries sustained from accidents (e.g., falls, sports impacts, collisions) resulting in complicated crown fractures (exposing the pulp), root fractures, significant tooth displacement (luxations), or complete avulsion (knocked-out tooth) that require specialist endodontic assessment and complex treatment to manage pulpal and periradicular consequences.

Pulpal Root Canal Issues

• Severe Tooth Pain, Dental Abscess, or Suspected Need for Root Canal Therapy: Addressing conditions affecting the inner vital tissues of the tooth that typically necessitate endodontic intervention to eliminate infection and preserve the tooth.

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

• Complex Root Canal Therapy & Retreatment (Specialist Level): Performing intricate root canal treatments on teeth with challenging anatomy (e.g., curved canals, calcified canals, multiple canals), managing procedural complications, or retreating previously failed root canals, often utilizing advanced techniques like microscopy.
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging: Access to or provision of 3D CBCT scans for detailed imaging of teeth, jawbone, sinuses, and TMJ, essential for complex treatment planning.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Comprehensive dental imaging services, including panoramic and intraoral X-rays, to aid in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
• Diagnosis of Complex Orofacial Pain of Endodontic Origin: Advanced assessment techniques to accurately identify teeth requiring endodontic intervention for pain relief.
• Management of Traumatic Dental Injuries to Pulp & Roots: Specialized care for teeth that have suffered injury, aiming to preserve vitality and function.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Endodontics, Dr. Yu is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Donald C. Yu's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Yu understands that dealing with needing a custom-fitted mouthguard for playing sports to properly protect their teeth and jaw from injury can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving their concerns about chronic bad breath being fully addressed through identification and treatment of the underlying dental or oral cause, helping patients comfortably get back to feeling good about their overall appearance and the positive first impression their smile makes and feeling their best.
• Many people seek Dr. Yu's professional help and expertise when dealing with their jaw making clicking, popping, or grating sounds when they opened their mouth wide or chewed. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently their child feeling positive and at ease during their regular dental visits, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to getting a full night's sleep without being woken up by a throbbing toothache or jaw pain.
• Dr. Yu provides dedicated support for patients going through an old dental bridge that felt loose, uncomfortable, or was showing signs of wear and tear, always aiming for positive outcomes like feeling well-equipped with advice on how to care for their toddler's developing teeth, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as experiencing the simple joy of a pain-free mouth every day.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Yu to see patients who were troubled by a desire for professional advice on how to effectively stop their child's cavities from getting worse or prevent new ones from forming successfully achieve receiving clear dental clearance before a major medical procedure, ensuring their overall health is prioritized. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like maintaining a professional appearance that boosts their career prospects.

Your specialized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Yu, will be meticulously designed to address your unique concerns and help you reach your specific objectives within their area of expertise. Dr. Yu is committed to providing the highest standard of specialized care, tailored to your individual needs.

Dr. Yu's practice is a dental office conveniently located in the SW: Lendrum Place, Malmo Plains, Lansdowne neighborhood of Edmonton. The clinic is situated near the Shopping & Nightlife District and is easily accessible via the Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including the LRT and bus routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Yu and the team at the clinic 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 you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Yu will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

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 to further minimize exposure. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Yu 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. Yu for a check-up and cleaning?

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Yu 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 is important to follow Dr. Yu's specific recommendations.

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

In Alberta, provincial health plans like AHCIP typically do NOT cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics. 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.

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

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. Yu.

#940 3803 Cakgary Trail NW, Southpark Centre
Edmonton, AB, T6J 5M8

Phone: (780) 438-2699

Dr. Donald C. Yu is a licensed Endodontist 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. Yu 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.