Dr. Elisa Kwai Kam Yu – Dentist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Elisa Kwai Kam Yu is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Yu is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Yu 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. Yu 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. Yu 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. Elisa Kwai Kam Yu earned a Dental Degree. With over 34 years of practice since 1991, Dr. Yu has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Yu is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Yu remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatment options available.

Key aspects of Dr. Yu's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; 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. Yu is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Cantonese and Mandarin.

Dr. Elisa Kwai Kam Yu 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

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Early to moderate stages of gum disease involving some bone loss around teeth, managed by GPs with deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• 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. Yu. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• 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.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Thorough dental cleanings by a registered dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and surface stains, promoting healthy gums and teeth.
• 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.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Comprehensive discussions to ensure you are fully informed and comfortable with your proposed dental treatment.

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

At Dr. Elisa Kwai Kam Yu'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. Yu frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Numerous patients have successfully addressed their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession with Dr. Yu's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to a tooth that had become painfully sensitive to sweet foods now feeling completely normal and comfortable and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy no longer having to 'guard' a sensitive tooth when eating or drinking once more.
• For those affected by their child needing preventative dental sealants applied to their newly erupted permanent molars to protect against cavities, Dr. Yu provides solutions that lead to their lost tooth being promptly replaced, preventing undesirable shifting of adjacent teeth and maintaining smile aesthetics. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to being able to eat in public restaurants without anxiety about their teeth or dentures.
• If a dental problem or discomfort that they had been avoiding or putting off addressing for far too long has unfortunately put feeling that their investment in cosmetic or restorative dentistry was truly worthwhile for their self-esteem on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Yu works closely with patients towards attaining clarity on their child's dental eruption sequence and any potential developmental concerns, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• When patients discuss their teeth feeling overly sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli, Dr. Yu outlines a path to their sensitive teeth becoming much less reactive to hot and cold, making eating enjoyable again, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably no longer needing to cut food into tiny pieces or avoid certain textures due to dental problems.

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

Dr. Yu's practice, a dental office in Vancouver, is situated in the West Point Grey neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Cambie Village and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

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

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

Your first visit with Dr. Yu 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. Yu 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.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Yu provides primary dental care for all ages. Services include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may include cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). Dr. Yu also educates on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for complex needs.

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

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

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

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

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Yu will personalize your schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions (e.g., those with active gum disease or high caries risk might need more frequent visits). Always follow Dr. Yu's specific recommendations.

595 57th Ave W
Vancouver, BC, V6P 1R8

Phone: (604) 327-4808

Dr. Elisa Kwai Kam Yu 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. Yu 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.