Dr. Garret E. Cunningham – Dentist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Garret E. Cunningham is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Calgary, AB, Dr. Cunningham is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Cunningham 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. Cunningham 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. Cunningham 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. Garret E. Cunningham earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Cunningham brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Cunningham is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Cunningham remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technology, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatment options available. This dedication to professional growth reflects Dr. Cunningham's unwavering commitment to providing exceptional dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Cunningham's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Cunningham provides consultations in English.

Dr. Garret E. Cunningham 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): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.
• 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.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Cunningham. 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: Addressing common issues with loose, uncomfortable, or damaged dentures to restore proper fit and patient satisfaction.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Comprehensive advice on preventing gum inflammation and infection for lifelong oral health and overall well-being.
• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): More involved tooth extractions that are beyond simple forceps removal, potentially including careful elevation of soft tissues for better visibility and access (for less complex surgical cases appropriate for a GP setting).
• 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. Cunningham. 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. Garret E. Cunningham adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

At Dr. Garret E. Cunningham'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. Cunningham frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Effectively addressing a persistent toothache that just wouldn't quit for them with Dr. Cunningham's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of their smile looking noticeably brighter and whiter after professional whitening treatment, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in enjoying romantic moments without self-consciousness about their breath or smile and social interactions.
• When a tooth that had become very dark or discolored, perhaps after a past injury or previous root canal treatment starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to being able to focus on their passions and pursuits without the constant background noise of dental issues, Dr. Cunningham and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their gums no longer bleeding during brushing, indicating healthier gum tissue and a return to comfort and confidence.
• Dr. Cunningham often consults with patients whose needing a substantial amount of dental work done and feeling quite overwhelmed by the prospect significantly limits their enjoyment of delivering important presentations or public speeches with clarity and self-assurance or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve a previously 'high' or uncomfortable dental filling being perfectly adjusted, restoring a comfortable and even bite and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• For patients where experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease is a primary concern, Dr. Cunningham focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in having a comfortable, stable, and functional full-mouth tooth replacement solution, like implant-supported dentures. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully confidently taking on speaking roles or performances without concern for their dental appearance or speech clarity.

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

Dr. Cunningham's practice, a dental office in Calgary, is situated in the NW: Hillhurst, Westmount, Sunnyside (Kensington) neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near SAIT and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Cunningham 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 cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding, if offered). Dr. Cunningham 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 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 for the general population. 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 might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting 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 between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Cunningham 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).

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact our clinic directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Cunningham.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Cunningham and the team will get to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, discuss any dental issues or goals, and undergo a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Cunningham will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Cunningham will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months). Following Dr. Cunningham's specific recommendation is crucial.

What payment options are available at the clinic for dental services?

Payment is typically due at the time services are provided. The clinic accepts cash, debit, Visa, and MasterCard. They also handle claims for most private dental insurance plans. For details on payment plans for larger treatments, please speak with the administrative staff.

430-1167 Kensington Crescent NW
Calgary, AB, T2N 1X7

Phone: (403) 270-9577

Dr. Garret E. Cunningham 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. Cunningham 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.