Dr. Dong Ho Kim – Dentist | Fort St. John, BC

Dr. Dong Ho Kim is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Fort St. John, BC, Dr. Kim is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Kim 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. Kim 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. Kim 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. Dong Ho Kim earned a Dental Degree. With over 3 years of practice since 2022, Dr. Kim has gained valuable clinical experience. Dr. Kim is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Kim remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, consistently providing patients with the most effective and comfortable treatments available.

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

Dr. Dong Ho Kim 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

• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Addressing broken or cracked teeth to restore their form, function, and prevent infection.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.
• 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.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• 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.

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

• Fluoride Treatments: Application of topical fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel, prevent demineralization, and reduce the risk of cavities, especially for children and at-risk adults.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Customized full and partial dentures, carefully crafted to help patients regain confidence in their smile, ability to eat a varied diet, and speak clearly.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Standard tooth removal procedures for non-impacted teeth that do not require complex surgical intervention.
• 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.
• 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. Kim. 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. Dong Ho Kim adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

At Dr. Dong Ho Kim'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. Kim frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Kim provides dedicated support for patients going through looking for a new family dentist who could provide comprehensive care for all members of their family, from children to adults, always aiming for positive outcomes like a noticeable reduction or cessation of gum bleeding when flossing, indicating improved gingival health, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as feeling that their dental health fully supports their active and engaged lifestyle.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Kim when they first notice a tooth getting accidentally knocked out or avulsed during a sports game or accident. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their new partial or full denture feeling exceptionally stable, comfortable, and looking completely natural, enabling them to once again enjoy their smile reflecting their inner happiness and confidence without hesitation.
• When patients discuss a persistent sore spot, ulcer, or unusual lesion in their mouth that hadn't healed on its own, Dr. Kim outlines a path to gaining clarity about their child's future orthodontic needs and the optimal timing for any potential treatment, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably maintaining a professional appearance that boosts their career prospects.
• For individuals troubled by a desire to discuss options for a comprehensive 'smile makeover' to address multiple aesthetic concerns, Dr. Kim's approach is focused on delivering feeling well-equipped with advice on how to care for their toddler's developing teeth. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like laughing openly and heartily without worrying about the appearance of their teeth with a healthier smile.

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

Dr. Kim's practice, a dental office in Fort St. John, is situated in a central location within the Fort St. John neighborhood of Fort St. John. 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.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Kim 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. Kim will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Kim 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. For example, some patients may need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. Following Dr. Kim's specific recommendation is crucial for optimal oral health.

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

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

What is the process for becoming a new patient at our clinic with Dr. Kim?

We welcome new patients! To become a new patient with Dr. Kim, please call our office at (250) 787-1918. Our team will gather some basic information and schedule your first appointment, which is typically a comprehensive examination and consultation. Please be prepared to provide your medical history and any dental insurance information you may have. We look forward to meeting you!

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 taken only when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Kim 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).

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

In BC, provincial health plans like the Medical Services Plan (MSP) 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 provided by employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). Always check your private dental insurance details and verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for before treatment.

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

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. Kim.

9629 100 Ave
Fort St. John, BC, V1J 1Y2

Phone: (250) 787-1918

Dr. Dong Ho Kim 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. Kim 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.