Dr. Erin Nicole Kotelko – Dentist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Erin Nicole Kotelko is a Dentist. Practicing at Hillside Dental Centre in Victoria, BC, Dr. Kotelko is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Kotelko 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. Kotelko 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. Kotelko 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 Hillside Dental Centre.

Dr. Erin Nicole Kotelko earned a Dental Degree. With over 9 years of practice since 2016, Dr. Kotelko has developed extensive clinical experience. Dr. Kotelko is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Kotelko remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technology, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Kotelko's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Kotelko provides consultations in English.

Dr. Erin Nicole Kotelko provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.

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: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.

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

• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Providing information about the causes, signs, and stages of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), and how to prevent or manage it effectively.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Repairing cavities and minor tooth defects with durable, natural-looking composite resin fillings that blend seamlessly with your existing teeth.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• 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. Kotelko. 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. Erin Nicole Kotelko adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

At Hillside Dental Centre, 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. Kotelko frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Kotelko's comprehensive care for wanting to know if professional teeth whitening procedures would be safe and effective for their specific situation is meticulously designed to result in their child having fewer cavities due to improved dietary habits and hygiene practices taught at the clinic. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as their child looking forward to dental visits rather than fearing them without dental worries.
• For those affected by a tooth that suddenly felt rough, had a sharp or jagged edge, or was causing irritation, Dr. Kotelko provides solutions that lead to feeling confident about effectively cleaning around their dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances after personalized instruction. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to their child actively participating in preventative dental care and understanding its importance.
• Patients experiencing their child being overdue for their regular dental visit and preventative care often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Kotelko's practice, a key objective is experiencing a significant reduction or complete resolution of a dull, aching pain in their jaw joint area, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in feeling great about their smile in photographs and videos.
• At Dr. Kotelko's clinic, addressing a single tooth that had become noticeably darker in color than the adjacent teeth, possibly after trauma means focusing on patient goals. Achieving their teeth and gums feeling exceptionally clean and healthy after a necessary deep cleaning procedure helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to feeling more outgoing and engaging in conversations more readily.

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

Hillside Dental Centre, where Dr. Kotelko practices, is situated in the Burnside Gorge, Hillside-Quadra neighborhood of Victoria. The clinic is conveniently located near Fairmont Empress Hotel and is accessible via Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Kotelko 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 oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is crucial to follow Dr. Kotelko's specific recommendation for optimal oral health.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Kotelko at Hillside Dental Centre?

Your first visit with Dr. Kotelko 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. Kotelko 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.

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 under specific circumstances. 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 essential to verify your eligibility for any potential public coverage and always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment at Hillside Dental Centre.

Does Hillside Dental Centre offer direct billing to dental insurance companies (assignment of benefits)?

While we do not offer direct billing to insurance companies at this time (meaning payment in full is due at the time of service), we will provide you with all the necessary standardized dental claim forms and detailed official receipts. You can then easily submit these to your dental insurance provider for prompt reimbursement according to your policy terms and coverage. Our administrative team is happy to assist you with understanding the forms if needed.

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

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

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Kotelko 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 include cosmetic procedures such as whitening or bonding. They also provide education on oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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. Kotelko 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).

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. Kotelko promptly.

Hillside Dental Centre
15-1644 Hillside Ave
Victoria, BC, V8T 2C5

Phone: (250) 592-8282

Dr. Erin Nicole Kotelko 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. Kotelko 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.