Dr. Douglas L. Chow – Dentist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Douglas L. Chow is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Edmonton, AB, Dr. Chow is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Chow 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. Chow 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. Chow 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. Douglas L. Chow earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Chow brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Chow is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment to professional development ensures that Dr. Chow remains at the forefront of advancements in dentistry, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and modern treatment options available. This dedication to lifelong learning reflects Dr. Chow's commitment to providing the highest standard of care.

Key aspects of Dr. Chow's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; 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. Chow provides consultations in English.

Dr. Douglas L. Chow 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): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

Common Dental Issues

• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.

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.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.

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

• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Performing root canal therapy on infected or irreversibly inflamed tooth pulp (nerve), typically for anterior (front) teeth and premolars in uncomplicated cases, to save the natural tooth from extraction and relieve pain or infection.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Custom-crafted bridges providing a stable, functional, and natural-looking replacement for lost teeth, preventing shifting of remaining teeth.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Dedicated time to review diagnostic findings, explain recommended procedures, and collaboratively create a dental care strategy that meets your needs and goals.
• 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).

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Chow. 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. Douglas L. Chow adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

At Dr. Douglas L. Chow'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. Chow frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When patients discuss needing practical advice and guidance on how to properly care for their toddler's newly erupted first teeth, Dr. Chow outlines a path to being able to enjoy a wider variety of foods without pain or difficulty chewing, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably their child being able to eat nutritious crunchy fruits and vegetables without discomfort.
• Patients experiencing their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Chow's practice, a key objective is their gums no longer bleeding during brushing, indicating healthier gum tissue, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in feeling refreshed and confident with consistently fresh breath throughout the day.
• For patients where a specific tooth being noticeably sensitive to pressure or discomfort when they chewed or bit down on food is a primary concern, Dr. Chow focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in gaining clarity about their child's future orthodontic needs and the optimal timing for any potential treatment. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully feeling great about their smile in photographs and videos.
• Are you struggling with an interest in straightening their teeth but a strong preference for avoiding traditional metal braces, exploring clear aligner options? Dr. Chow partners with patients to target their child's toothache being resolved, and the tooth saved with appropriate treatment, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as being able to focus on their passions and pursuits without the constant background noise of dental issues a much more achievable reality.

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

Dr. Chow's practice is a dental office conveniently located in the SW: Lendrum Place, Malmo Plains, Lansdowne neighborhood of Edmonton. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near High Level Bridge Access and is easily accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Chow 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 between visits. It is important to follow Dr. Chow's specific recommendation for your optimal oral health.

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

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

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

Your first visit with Dr. Chow 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. Chow will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if any care is needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

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 by AHCIP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often provided through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). It is important 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 at the clinic.

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 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. Chow 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).

2369 - 111 Street NW
Edmonton, AB, T6J 5E5

Phone: (780) 485-8131

Dr. Douglas L. Chow 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. Chow 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.