Dr. Edward Ewald Putnins

Dr. Edward Ewald Putnins 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

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.

Common Dental Issues

• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• 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: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.

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

• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Addressing common issues with loose, uncomfortable, or damaged dentures to restore proper fit and patient satisfaction.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Fabrication of custom-fitted sports mouthguards to protect teeth and jaws from injury during athletic activities.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Personalized instruction and demonstration of proper brushing and flossing techniques to effectively remove plaque and maintain optimal oral hygiene at home.
• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Durable and precisely fitting partial crowns designed to preserve more natural tooth structure while effectively repairing significant decay or fractures on the chewing surfaces.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Removable prosthetic solutions, including conventional and implant-retained options, to effectively replace missing teeth, thereby improving oral function, facial support, and overall appearance.

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

At Dr. Edward Ewald Putnins'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. Putnins frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When patients discuss experiencing a dull, persistent ache in their jaw joint area that sometimes radiated towards their ear or temple, Dr. Putnins outlines a path to their infected tooth being successfully saved from extraction through root canal treatment, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably feeling that their dental health fully supports their active and engaged lifestyle.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Putnins when they first notice a tooth that had become very dark or discolored, perhaps after a past injury or previous root canal treatment. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their gums appearing consistently healthy, pink, and firm, without any signs of puffiness or inflammation, enabling them to once again enjoy their child being able_to focus on learning and playing without the interruption of dental pain without hesitation.
• Dr. Putnins expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of looking for a new family dentist who could provide comprehensive care for all members of their family, from children to adults. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their lost filling or crown being promptly and durably replaced, protecting the tooth, means they can happily and comfortably get back to smiling confidently in photos and social situations without any self-consciousness.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing their smile not looking as bright, white, or vibrant as it used to, prompting interest in whitening, involves working systematically towards feeling significantly more relaxed and calm during dental visits due to effective anxiety management strategies or sedation. Dr. Putnins expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including their overall facial aesthetics being enhanced by well-planned dental and/or facial esthetic treatments.

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

Dr. Putnins's practice, a dental office in Vancouver, is situated in the UBC Campus Proper neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Riley Park (Nat Bailey Stadium) and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

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

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

In British Columbia, the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan, or MSP) typically does <strong>not</strong> cover routine or major dental procedures in private dental clinics for the general population. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered by MSP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, or social assistance recipients). It is crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to check your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-pays, deductibles, and annual maximums) before beginning treatment.

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

For most adults, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Putnins will personalize your schedule based on your individual 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 for those managing gum disease or at high caries risk), while others with excellent oral health might have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Putnins' specific recommendations.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays, especially modern digital X-rays, are very safe due to minimal radiation exposure. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are only taken when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Putnins will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and history, following guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Putnins provides primary dental care for all ages. Services 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 potentially some cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also provide oral hygiene education and refer to specialists when needed for complex cases.

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

No, a referral is not typically needed to see a general dentist. You can contact the clinic directly to schedule an appointment with Dr. Putnins.

I experience jaw pain, clicking, and headaches. Can Dr. Putnins help with TMJ/TMD issues?

Dr. Putnins can perform an initial assessment of your jaw pain and related symptoms. Depending on the findings, they may offer conservative management advice (like recommending a night guard) or refer you to a specialist with advanced TMJ/TMD training if more specialized care is needed.

302 - 2199 Wesbrook Mall
Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3

Phone: (604) 822-1734

Dr. Edward Ewald Putnins 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. Putnins 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.