Dr. Ella Yoojung Choi – Dentist | Surrey, BC

Dr. Ella Yoojung Choi is a Pediatric Dentist. Practicing at a pediatric dentist practice in Surrey, BC, Dr. Choi is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Choi 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 Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Choi provides comprehensive and specialized preventative and therapeutic oral health care exclusively for infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special health care needs. This includes behavior guidance, sedation, and treatment of early childhood caries and developmental dental issues. Dr. Choi 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. Ella Yoojung Choi earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Choi brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Choi is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Ella Yoojung Choi addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Childhood Dental Conditions

• Comprehensive Dental Needs of Infants, Children, and Adolescents: Addressing a wide range of dental issues common in childhood, such as early childhood caries, dental developmental anomalies, dental trauma, or orthodontic interception needs, in a child-friendly environment.

Dental Trauma Children

• Traumatic Injuries to Primary or Young Permanent Teeth in Children: Specialized pediatric management of traumatic dental injuries, including splinting, pulp therapy, and aesthetic repairs, tailored to the child's age and dental development.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Seeking a pediatric dental specialist or a general dentist with significant experience and resources in providing safe, effective, and compassionate dental care for children with unique and complex needs, potentially including the use of advanced behavior guidance techniques or sedation/anesthesia.
• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Specialized considerations for dental treatment in pediatric patients with underlying illnesses.

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

• Comprehensive Oral Health Care for Infants, Children & Adolescents: Expert management of all aspects of children's oral health, focusing on prevention, early intervention, and positive dental experiences.
• Dental Care for Children with Special Health Care Needs: Experienced in addressing the specific oral health challenges and behavioral considerations of children with special needs.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Guidance on the best tools and methods for cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly to prevent dental problems.
• Behavior Guidance & Management for Pediatric Patients: Expertise in managing the behavior of young or anxious children to ensure safe and effective dental treatment.
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging: Advanced 3D dental imaging for precise diagnostics in implant placement, orthodontics, endodontics, or oral surgery cases.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Choi is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Ella Yoojung Choi's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• When concerns about how their bite felt when they chewed, or if their teeth were meeting correctly begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Choi helps patients strive for their dentures no longer causing sore spots, allowing them to eat and speak with ease. This makes participating in activities such as knowing their teeth are well-protected from decay and damage a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Through Dr. Choi's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from experiencing a persistently dry mouth (xerostomia) feeling, making it uncomfortable to speak or swallow often find they can readily achieve their gums no longer bleeding during brushing, indicating healthier gum tissue and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like their ability to taste and appreciate food fully, unmarred by dental pain or infection.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of having chipped a tooth unexpectedly while eating something hard, Dr. Choi offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach an impacted tooth being successfully managed or removed, preventing future pain, infection, or damage to other teeth. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of their ability to savor the flavors of food being enhanced due to a healthy mouth.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Choi when they first notice a tooth getting accidentally knocked out or avulsed during a sports game or accident. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve having a comfortable, stable, and functional full-mouth tooth replacement solution, like implant-supported dentures, enabling them to once again enjoy confidently recommending their dentist, {preferred_name}, to friends and family based on their positive experiences without hesitation.

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

Dr. Choi's practice is a well-regarded dental office in Surrey, situated in a convenient Surrey neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Scott Road SkyTrain Station and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Choi 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 at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals. It is crucial to follow Dr. Choi's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

How does Dr. Choi as a Pediatric Dentist manage children with dental anxiety or special healthcare needs?

Dr. Choi's specialized training includes behavior guidance techniques such as "tell-show-do", positive reinforcement, and distraction methods. The clinic creates a child-friendly environment to ease anxiety. Dr. Choi has experience managing patients with various special needs. Depending on the individual's needs and the clinic's capabilities, options like nitrous oxide may be considered. If more extensive sedation or general anesthesia is required, Dr. Choi will coordinate care with appropriate specialists. A patient and gentle approach is always prioritized.

What are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?

Early signs of gum disease (gingivitis) often include red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums (especially when brushing or flossing), and sometimes persistent bad breath. If it progresses to periodontitis, you might notice receding gums (teeth appearing longer), pus between teeth and gums, loose teeth, or changes in your bite. If you observe any of these symptoms, it's important to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Choi promptly.

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

In British Columbia, provincial health plans like the Medical Services Plan (MSP) 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, 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, social assistance recipients). It's crucial to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before treatment.

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

While some dental specialists may accept patients directly, a referral from a general dentist like Dr. Choi is often recommended, and sometimes required by the specialist or your insurance plan. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Choi identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Always check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider if you are unsure.

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

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

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

Your first visit with Dr. Choi 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. Choi will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

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. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Choi 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).

104 - 2630 Croydon Dr
Surrey, BC, V3Z 6T3

Phone: (778) 874-0545

Dr. Ella Yoojung Choi is a licensed Pediatric 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. Choi 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.