Dr. Edward Mah – Dentist | Burnaby, BC

Dr. Edward Mah is a Orthodontist. Practicing at a orthodontist practice in Burnaby, BC, Dr. Mah is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Mah 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. As a certified specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Mah focuses exclusively on the diagnosis, prevention, interception, and comprehensive treatment of malocclusions (improper bites), misaligned teeth, and jaw irregularities using a full range of orthodontic appliances including braces, clear aligners, and retainers for children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Mah 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. Edward Mah earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Mah brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Mah is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Mah's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Mah is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Cantonese.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Edward Mah addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Crowding Spacing Teeth

• Crowded, Overlapped, or Excessively Spaced Teeth: Addressing issues of dental arch length discrepancy leading to either crowding or spacing of teeth.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Dental situations where standard 2D X-rays (bitewings, panoramic) are insufficient and a 3D Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan is required for accurate diagnosis, assessment of anatomical complexities, or detailed planning of complex treatments like implants, orthodontics, or endodontics.

Malocclusion Orthodontic Issues

• Misaligned Teeth & Jaws Requiring Specialist Orthodontic Correction: Addressing significant bite problems (malocclusions) and complex dental or skeletal irregularities for optimal long-term oral health, function, and appearance, managed by an orthodontic specialist.

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

• Comprehensive Orthodontic Diagnosis & Treatment Planning: Developing individualized orthodontic treatment plans to correct malocclusions and achieve optimal dental and facial aesthetics.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• Orthodontic Retainers (Fixed & Removable): Essential follow-up care to ensure the stability of orthodontic results long-term.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Educating patients on the importance of gum health and the steps they can take to maintain healthy periodontal tissues for life.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Mah is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Edward Mah's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• When a piece of an old, large amalgam (silver) filling breaking off, leaving a tooth vulnerable starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to enjoying a wide variety of their favorite foods, including crunchy apples or a juicy steak, without pain or difficulty, Dr. Mah and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their infected tooth being successfully saved from extraction through root canal treatment and a return to comfort and confidence.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed a desire for a more permanent, comfortable, and functional solution than their current removable partial denture with Dr. Mah's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to gaining clarity about their child's future orthodontic needs and the optimal timing for any potential treatment and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy feeling the smooth, clean surfaces of their teeth after a professional cleaning and polishing once more.
• Effectively addressing a noticeable gap between their front teeth that they had always wished to close with Dr. Mah's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of having a comfortable, stable, and functional full-mouth tooth replacement solution, like implant-supported dentures, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in biting into sandwiches or other challenging foods with complete confidence and social interactions.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Mah with concerns about recognizing the need for a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) because it had been a significant time since their last professional hygiene visit. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve being able to enjoy a wider variety of foods without pain or difficulty chewing, making a positive and lasting return to their child understanding the importance of regular dental check-ups for a lifetime of health not just possible, but highly feasible.

Your specialized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Mah, will be meticulously designed to address your unique concerns and help you reach your specific objectives within their area of expertise. Dr. Mah is committed to providing the highest standard of specialized care, tailored to your individual needs.

Dr. Mah's practice, a dental office in Burnaby, is situated in the Capitol Hill, Burnaby Heights neighborhood of Burnaby. The clinic is conveniently located near Burnaby Village Museum and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium Lines, Bus). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

How long does orthodontic treatment (e.g., braces, Invisalign®) usually take with Dr. Mah?

The duration of orthodontic treatment varies significantly depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the patient's age, the type of appliance used (braces, Invisalign®, etc.), and the patient's cooperation and adherence to the treatment plan. While average treatment times can range from 12 to 36 months, Dr. Mah will provide a personalized estimate after a thorough orthodontic assessment and examination.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Mah and the team will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your oral health. This will involve completing a medical history form, discussing your dental concerns and goals, and undergoing a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to aid in diagnosis. Dr. Mah will then explain their findings and discuss any recommended treatment options. This is an excellent opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

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

No, a referral is typically not needed to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. You are welcome to contact the clinic directly to book your visit with Dr. Mah.

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

The recommended frequency of check-up and cleaning appointments varies depending on individual needs and risk factors. While six-monthly visits are generally recommended for preventative care, Dr. Mah will personalize a schedule based on your specific oral health, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may require more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months) while others might have longer intervals. It's crucial to follow Dr. Mah's specific recommendations.

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

For life-threatening emergencies (severe bleeding, difficulty breathing due to swelling, significant facial trauma), go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911 immediately. For urgent, non-life-threatening dental issues (severe toothache, knocked-out tooth, dental abscess, broken tooth causing pain), call the main office number at (604) 678-8880. Our voicemail may provide instructions for emergency contact or direct you to an emergency dental service in Burnaby.

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

Modern digital dental X-rays are very safe, using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when necessary for diagnosis (new patients, checking for decay, assessing bone health, planning complex treatments). Dr. Mah will determine the frequency based on your individual needs and risk factors, following ALARA principles (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see a dental specialist (e.g., Orthodontist, Periodontist)?

While some specialists accept patients directly, a referral from your general dentist is often recommended or required by the specialist or your insurance plan. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Mah identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral. Check with the specialist's office or your insurance if unsure.

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

In BC, the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically does not cover most routine or major dental procedures in private clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in hospitals may be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance, or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., low-income families, seniors). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

4619 Hastings St
Burnaby, BC, V5C 2K6

Phone: (604) 678-8880

Dr. Edward Mah is a licensed Orthodontist 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. Mah 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.