Dr. Frank Paul Berger

Dr. Frank Paul Berger 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.
• 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.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.

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.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.

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): 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.

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

• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Nutritional advice tailored to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent dental diseases.
• Dental Sealants: Protective sealants for children and adolescents to safeguard vulnerable back teeth from decay.
• 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.
• 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.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.

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

At MidCoast Dental Clinic, 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. Berger frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For those affected by experiencing significant fear or deep-seated anxiety about upcoming dental visits, Dr. Berger provides solutions that lead to their smile looking its absolute best for an important upcoming wedding, graduation, or other special event. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to their TMJ comfort allowing them to yawn, laugh, and speak without restriction or pain.
• A key objective when treating needing a custom-fitted mouthguard for playing sports to properly protect their teeth and jaw from injury at Dr. Berger's welcoming dental clinic is achieving experiencing a significant reduction in jaw pain and morning headaches after treatment for teeth grinding (bruxism). This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like confidently recommending their dentist, {preferred_name}, to friends and family based on their positive experiences.
• Effectively addressing their child being overdue for their regular dental visit and preventative care with Dr. Berger's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of a noticeable reduction or cessation of gum bleeding when flossing, indicating improved gingival health, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in their child being able to participate in classroom activities without dental distractions and social interactions.
• When patients discuss wanting to explore options to replace a missing tooth with a permanent solution like a dental implant, Dr. Berger outlines a path to a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably their children being able to enjoy treats in moderation without an excessive fear of immediate cavities due to good preventative care.

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

MidCoast Dental Clinic, where Dr. Berger practices, is situated in a central location within the Sechelt neighborhood of Sechelt. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Berger 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. Berger's specific recommendation.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact MidCoast Dental Clinic directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Berger.

What payment options are available at MidCoast Dental Clinic for dental services?

For your convenience, MidCoast Dental Clinic accepts various payment methods, including cash, debit cards, Visa, MasterCard, and sometimes American Express. We also work with many private dental insurance plans. Please discuss specific payment arrangements and insurance details with our administrative team prior to your treatment. Payment for services is generally expected at the time treatment is rendered.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Berger at MidCoast Dental Clinic?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Berger and the team at MidCoast Dental Clinic will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Berger will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Berger 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 like whitening or bonding. Dr. Berger also provides education on oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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 by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers) or government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It's essential to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Berger will determine the frequency based on your individual needs and risk factors, adhering to guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

What are the most effective ways to prevent cavities (tooth decay)?

To prevent cavities, maintain excellent oral hygiene: brush thoroughly twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Eat a balanced diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks, especially between meals. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings with Dr. Berger are essential for early detection and prevention. Dr. Berger may also recommend dental sealants or fluoride treatments for added protection.

MidCoast Dental Clinic
5674 Teredo St, P.O. Box 1100
Sechelt, BC, V0N 3A0

Phone: (604) 885-9539

Dr. Frank Paul Berger 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. Berger 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.