Dr. Eric W. Lai – Dentist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Eric W. Lai is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Edmonton, AB, Dr. Lai is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Lai is licensed by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in AB. Dr. Lai 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. Lai 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. Eric W. Lai earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Lai brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Lai is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Lai remains at the forefront of advancements in dental technology and techniques, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available. Dr. Lai's dedication to professional development reflects their commitment to providing exceptional care and achieving optimal patient outcomes.

Key aspects of Dr. Lai's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Lai provides consultations in English.

Dr. Eric W. Lai 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

• 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.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Emergency management of traumatic dental injuries to maximize the chances of successful reimplantation or repair.

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.

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

• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Essential maintenance services to extend the life and performance of your dentures, ensuring they continue to serve you well and comfortably.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• Fluoride Treatments: Professional fluoride therapy to help protect your teeth against decay and enhance remineralization.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Lai. 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. Eric W. Lai adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

At Dr. Eric W. Lai'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. Lai frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Lai expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of feeling like their teeth were gradually shifting position or their bite was changing noticeably over time. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by receiving a new, well-fitting set of dentures that dramatically improved their ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence, means they can happily and comfortably get back to their child being able to eat nutritious crunchy fruits and vegetables without discomfort.
• Patients presenting with a wisdom tooth starting to cause significant pain, pressure, or signs of infection can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of the gap between their front teeth being attractively closed, boosting their confidence under Dr. Lai's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume confidently eating sticky or chewy foods without fear of dislodging restorations or dentures without the former limitations or discomfort.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing needing a custom-fitted mouthguard for playing sports to properly protect their teeth and jaw from injury, involves working systematically towards their teeth feeling more stable and their bite more aligned after corrective treatment. Dr. Lai expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including participating actively in sports without fear of dental injury, especially with a custom mouthguard.
• A key objective when treating a desire for a more permanent, comfortable, and functional solution than their current removable partial denture at Dr. Lai's welcoming dental clinic is achieving feeling confident about effectively cleaning around their dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances after personalized instruction. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like enjoying a wide variety of their favorite foods, including crunchy apples or a juicy steak, without pain or difficulty.

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

Dr. Lai's practice, a dental office in Edmonton, is situated in the SW: Windermere South, Keswick neighborhood of Edmonton. The clinic is conveniently located near Downtown Core and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Lai is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services. These 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 may also offer cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. Dr. Lai also educates patients on proper oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists when more complex care is needed.

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 minimize any potential exposure. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for cavities between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Lai 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).

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 specific, 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, social assistance recipients). It is crucial to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Lai 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. Lai for a check-up and cleaning?

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Lai 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 more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months), while others might have slightly longer intervals. It's essential to follow Dr. Lai's specific recommendations.

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

At your first appointment, Dr. Lai and the team will get to know you and your oral health. You'll fill out a medical history form, discuss any dental issues or goals, and undergo a thorough examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Lai will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a good opportunity to ask questions.

6042 Currents Drive
Edmonton, AB, T6W 0L7

Phone: (780) 758-8388

Dr. Eric W. Lai 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. Lai 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.