Dr. Donna May – Dentist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Donna May is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Edmonton, AB, Dr. May is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. May 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. May 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. May 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. Donna May earned a Dental Degree. Dr. May brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. May is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures Dr. May remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technology, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available. Dr. May's professional development is a continuous journey, reflecting their dedication to delivering exceptional care.

Key aspects of Dr. May's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. May strives to create a relaxed and comfortable environment where patients feel understood and respected. Dr. May provides consultations in English.

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

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• 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.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.

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): 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.
• 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.

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): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. May. 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.
• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Conservative and durable restorations used to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage that is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a full coverage crown.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Custom-crafted bridges providing a stable, functional, and natural-looking replacement for lost teeth, preventing shifting of remaining teeth.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• 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. May. 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. Donna May adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

At Dr. Donna May'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. May frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients experiencing wondering if their child's teeth were erupting in the correct sequence and alignment for their age often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. May's practice, a key objective is an impacted tooth being successfully managed or removed, preventing future pain, infection, or damage to other teeth, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in feeling good about their overall appearance and the positive first impression their smile makes.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed an old dental filling falling out or a crown feeling loose, unstable, or detaching with Dr. May's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their partner reporting less snoring or cessation of breathing pauses during sleep after starting treatment with a dental sleep apnea appliance (facilitated by their dentist) and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy their child actively participating in preventative dental care and understanding its importance once more.
• Managing a persistent toothache that just wouldn't quit for them effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. May and the dental team. The clear aim is always their slightly crooked front teeth being straightened effectively with a conservative cosmetic option, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying no longer having to 'guard' a sensitive tooth when eating or drinking and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of their jaw making clicking, popping, or grating sounds when they opened their mouth wide or chewed, Dr. May offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach receiving a definitive diagnosis for an unusual growth or spot in their mouth, leading to appropriate action. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of laughing openly and heartily without worrying about the appearance of their teeth.

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

Dr. May's practice, a dental office in Edmonton, is situated in the SW: Ellerslie, Allard, Rutherford neighborhood of Edmonton. The clinic is conveniently located near Garneau/University Area and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. May 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, inlays, onlays), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease (gingivitis and mild periodontitis), and may also offer cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or bonding. Dr. May also provides valuable education on oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists when more complex care is needed.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. May 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. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months) if managing active gum disease or at high risk for cavities, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between appointments. It is essential to follow Dr. May's specific recommendations for your optimal oral health.

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

Your first visit with Dr. May will typically involve a comprehensive dental examination. This includes a review of your medical and dental history, a thorough check of your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues (including an oral cancer screening), and any necessary X-rays. Dr. May will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed during this visit or scheduled for a subsequent appointment.

What should I do if I have a dental emergency outside of our clinic's regular office hours?

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency (e.g., severe uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing due to facial swelling, significant facial trauma), please go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911 immediately. For urgent dental issues that are not life-threatening but require prompt attention outside of our clinic’s hours (such as severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, a dental abscess with moderate swelling, or a broken tooth causing sharp pain), please call our main office number at (780) 244-6292. Our voicemail message may provide instructions for emergency contact with Dr. May or another on-call dentist, or direct you to an emergency dental service available in the Edmonton area.

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 to minimize any potential 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. May 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).

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

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

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

In Alberta, provincial health plans like the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) 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 provided by employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is crucial to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment.

What cosmetic dentistry options might Dr. May offer to improve the appearance of my smile?

Dr. May focuses on comprehensive general dentistry for overall oral health. While many restorative procedures also have excellent aesthetic outcomes, if you have specific advanced cosmetic concerns, they can discuss basic aesthetic improvements available or provide a referral to a dentist specializing in cosmetic procedures or a prosthodontist if more advanced treatment is desired.

109, 1803 - 91 Street
Edmonton, AB, T6X 0W8

Phone: (780) 244-6292

Dr. Donna May 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. May 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.