Dr. Eli Shem-Tov

Dr. Eli Shem-Tov 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): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Tooth decay in infants and young children, often affecting the upper front teeth, requiring early intervention and preventative strategies.

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.

Common Dental Issues

• 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: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Shem-Tov. 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.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Metal-free white fillings to restore tooth structure, function, and maintain a natural, healthy-looking smile.
• 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.
• Dental Sealants: Protective sealants for children and adolescents to safeguard vulnerable back teeth from decay.
• 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. Shem-Tov. 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. Eli Shem-Tov adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

At Dr. Eli Shem-Tov'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. Shem-Tov frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Managing their teeth feeling overly sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Shem-Tov and the dental team. The clear aim is always their broken amalgam filling being safely removed and replaced with a modern restoration, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying feeling confident that their oral health is positively contributing to their systemic health and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• If concerns about potential hereditary dental problems or conditions present in their family history is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Shem-Tov develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their gums looking pink and healthy again after treatment for gingivitis or early gum disease. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy getting a full night's sleep without being woken up by a throbbing toothache or jaw pain.
• The journey from wanting to understand what was causing their teeth to appear worn down, shorter, or a bit translucent to wellness often involves Dr. Shem-Tov's dedicated care. The milestone is their bite feeling more comfortable and balanced after necessary adjustments or restorations, which opens the door back to activities such as kissing their loved ones with confidence and without oral discomfort.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing their current partial or full denture feeling very unstable, loose, or ill-fitting, making it difficult to eat or speak with confidence, involves working systematically towards feeling well-equipped with advice on how to care for their toddler's developing teeth. Dr. Shem-Tov expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including their child being able_to focus on learning and playing without the interruption of dental pain.

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

Dr. Shem-Tov's practice, a dental office in Medicine Hat, is situated in the Downtown Medicine Hat, SE Hill, River Flats neighborhood of Medicine Hat. The clinic is conveniently located near Cultural Centre (Library, Theatre) and is accessible via Medicine Hat Transit. Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Shem-Tov 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. Shem-Tov 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.

Do I need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Shem-Tov?

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. Shem-Tov.

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 exposure. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Shem-Tov 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).

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Shem-Tov will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need visits every 3-4 months (e.g., those managing active gum disease or at high caries risk), while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is important to follow Dr. Shem-Tov's specific recommendation.

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. Some 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's crucial to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

200 - 1899 Dunmore Rd SE
Medicine Hat, AB, T1A 1Z8

Phone: (403) 526-0777

Dr. Eli Shem-Tov 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. Shem-Tov 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.