Dr. Dwayne Michael Ogasawara – Dentist | Vernon, BC

Dr. Dwayne Michael Ogasawara is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Vernon, BC, Dr. Ogasawara is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Ogasawara 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. Ogasawara 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. Ogasawara 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. Dwayne Michael Ogasawara earned a Dental Degree. With over 35 years of practice since 1990, Dr. Ogasawara has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Ogasawara is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments. This commitment reflects their dedication to providing exceptional care throughout their career.

Key aspects of Dr. Ogasawara's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Ogasawara provides consultations in English.

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

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.
• 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.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.
• 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.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Ogasawara. 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): Low-radiation digital radiographs to detect cavities between teeth, assess bone levels, view tooth roots, and identify other hidden dental issues.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Vigilant screening for oral cancer, a critical component of maintaining your overall health.
• Dental Crowns (Caps): Full-coverage restorations crafted from materials like porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or gold to encase and reinforce a compromised tooth for long-term durability.
• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): More involved tooth extractions that are beyond simple forceps removal, potentially including careful elevation of soft tissues for better visibility and access (for less complex surgical cases appropriate for a GP setting).
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Fixed prosthetic solutions designed to effectively fill the gap left by missing teeth, thereby improving chewing ability, speech, and overall smile appearance.

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

At Dr. Dwayne Michael Ogasawara'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. Ogasawara frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The journey from concerns about grinding their teeth so forcefully or frequently that their jaw muscles ached or they experienced morning headaches to wellness often involves Dr. Ogasawara's dedicated care. The milestone is feeling confident about effectively cleaning around their dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances after personalized instruction, which opens the door back to activities such as enjoying a cold ice cream or a hot cup of coffee without wincing from tooth sensitivity.
• For patients where wanting to know if professional teeth whitening procedures would be safe and effective for their specific situation is a primary concern, Dr. Ogasawara focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in a noticeable reduction or cessation of gum bleeding when flossing, indicating improved gingival health. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing wanting to learn the best and most effective way to clean around their existing dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances, involves working systematically towards feeling well-equipped with advice on how to care for their toddler's developing teeth. Dr. Ogasawara expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including no longer needing to cut food into tiny pieces or avoid certain textures due to dental problems.
• A key objective when treating their breath not feeling consistently fresh or clean even immediately after brushing and flossing at Dr. Ogasawara's welcoming dental clinic is achieving their smile looking its absolute best for an important upcoming wedding, graduation, or other special event. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like their dental implants feeling and functioning just like their natural teeth.

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

Dr. Ogasawara's dental practice is conveniently located in the Central Vernon, Downtown neighborhood of Vernon, BC. The clinic is situated near Vernon Jubilee Hospital and is easily accessible via the Vernon Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Ogasawara 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).

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Ogasawara 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 include cosmetic procedures such as whitening or bonding. Dr. Ogasawara also educates patients on proper oral hygiene and will refer patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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

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. Ogasawara.

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Ogasawara will recommend a personalized schedule based on your 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 are at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals. It is important to follow Dr. Ogasawara's specific recommendations.

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 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, social assistance recipients). It is important to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Ogasawara and the team will get to know you and your oral health history. You will fill out a medical history form and discuss any dental issues or goals. A detailed examination of your mouth will follow, and digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Ogasawara will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. This is a great opportunity to ask questions.

201 - 3117 32nd St
Vernon, BC, V1T 5M6

Phone: (250) 542-2361

Dr. Dwayne Michael Ogasawara 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. Ogasawara 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.