Dr. Geoffrey B Van Blaricom – Dentist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Geoffrey B Van Blaricom is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at a dentist practice in Calgary, AB, Dr. Blaricom is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Blaricom 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. Blaricom 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. Blaricom also provides comprehensive general dental care with various certified levels of sedation (such as nitrous oxide/'laughing gas', oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on specific qualifications) to help anxious patients, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals undergoing extensive procedures feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable throughout their dental treatment. Dr. Blaricom 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. Geoffrey B Van Blaricom earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Blaricom brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Blaricom offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. Dr. Blaricom is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available, reflecting Dr. Blaricom's dedication to excellence in patient care and professional growth within the dental field.

Key aspects of Dr. Blaricom's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Blaricom provides consultations in English.

Dr. Geoffrey B Van Blaricom provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Seeking a dental provider experienced in managing the oral health of children with complex medical histories.
• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Requiring specialized dental management and a tailored care approach for children and adolescents with underlying medical conditions (e.g., congenital heart disease, bleeding disorders, immunocompromise), physical disabilities (e.g., cerebral palsy), cognitive or developmental challenges (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome), or significant behavioral issues that make routine dental treatment difficult.

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): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.

Gag Reflex Management

• Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Seeking strategies, desensitization techniques, or appropriate sedation options to manage a strong gag reflex during necessary dental care.

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

• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Comprehensive discussions to ensure you are fully informed and comfortable with your proposed dental treatment.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Fabrication of custom-fitted sports mouthguards to protect teeth and jaws from injury during athletic activities.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.
• Dental Bonding (Composite Resin Veneers/Restorations): A conservative and versatile cosmetic procedure to quickly and effectively enhance your smile's appearance using direct composite bonding techniques.

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

At Dr. Geoffrey B Van Blaricom'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. Blaricom frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The primary focus for patients seeking help for their child frequently complaining of a sore tooth or dental discomfort at Dr. Blaricom's practice is consistently achieving a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as confidently recommending their dentist, {preferred_name}, to friends and family based on their positive experiences.
• The journey from their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession to wellness often involves Dr. Blaricom's dedicated care. The milestone is their receding gums being stabilized or treated, protecting their tooth roots, which opens the door back to activities such as passing on good oral hygiene habits and a positive attitude towards dental care to their children.
• At Dr. Blaricom's clinic, addressing experiencing a persistently dry mouth (xerostomia) feeling, making it uncomfortable to speak or swallow means focusing on patient goals. Achieving their infected tooth being successfully saved from extraction through root canal treatment helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to confidently taking on speaking roles or performances without concern for their dental appearance or speech clarity.
• If looking for a new family dentist who could provide comprehensive care for all members of their family, from children to adults is preventing you from fully enjoying getting a full night's sleep without being woken up by a throbbing toothache or jaw pain or causing discomfort, Dr. Blaricom offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve their old, unsightly silver filling being replaced with a natural-looking tooth-coloured restoration through comprehensive and personalized dental care.

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

Dr. Blaricom'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 Peace Bridge and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

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

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Blaricom is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services including preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride, 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). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Blaricom and the team at the 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. Blaricom will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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, it is often recommended and sometimes required by the specialist or insurance plans to have a referral from a general dentist like Dr. Blaricom. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Blaricom identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance if unsure.

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. Blaricom 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).

I'm very anxious about dental visits. Does Dr. Blaricom offer any sedation options?

Yes, Dr. Blaricom understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, our clinic may offer various sedation options, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Blaricom during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

In AB, provincial health plans (like 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 through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

Generally, every 6 months for most patients for preventative care. Dr. Blaricom 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 if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals). Follow Dr. Blaricom's specific recommendation.

204, 320 - 10 Street N.W.
Calgary, AB, T2N 1V8

Phone: (403) 270-3600

Dr. Geoffrey B Van Blaricom 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. Blaricom 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.