Dr. Gerald Ernest Philippson – Dentist | Duncan, BC

Dr. Gerald Ernest Philippson is a Orthodontist. Practicing at a orthodontist practice in Duncan, BC, Dr. Philippson is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Philippson 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. As a certified specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Philippson focuses exclusively on the diagnosis, prevention, interception, and comprehensive treatment of malocclusions (improper bites), misaligned teeth, and jaw irregularities using a full range of orthodontic appliances including braces, clear aligners, and retainers for children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Philippson 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. Gerald Ernest Philippson earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Philippson brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Philippson is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures Dr. Philippson remains at the forefront of advancements in orthodontic techniques and technologies, consistently delivering the highest quality of care to their patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Philippson's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Philippson provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Gerald Ernest Philippson addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Overbite Underbite Crossbite

• Specific Bite Problems: Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite, Open Bite: Addressing various anteroposterior, vertical, or transverse bite problems through specialized orthodontic care.

Crowding Spacing Teeth

• Crowded, Overlapped, or Excessively Spaced Teeth: Addressing issues of dental arch length discrepancy leading to either crowding or spacing of teeth.

Malocclusion Orthodontic Issues

• Misaligned Teeth & Jaws Requiring Specialist Orthodontic Correction: Addressing significant bite problems (malocclusions) and complex dental or skeletal irregularities for optimal long-term oral health, function, and appearance, managed by an orthodontic specialist.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Dental situations where standard 2D X-rays (bitewings, panoramic) are insufficient and a 3D Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan is required for accurate diagnosis, assessment of anatomical complexities, or detailed planning of complex treatments like implants, orthodontics, or endodontics.

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

• Comprehensive Orthodontic Diagnosis & Treatment Planning: Detailed consultations to discuss all aspects of orthodontic care, including treatment duration, appliance options, and expected outcomes.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.
• Clear Aligner Therapy (e.g., Invisalign®, Spark™): Aesthetic and comfortable alternative to traditional braces for correcting various alignment and bite issues.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Proactive examinations as part of your check-up to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.
• Traditional Metal & Ceramic Braces: Placement and management of fixed orthodontic appliances (metal or clear ceramic braces) to effectively straighten teeth and correct bite issues.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Philippson is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Gerald Ernest Philippson's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• If noticing their gums seemed to be receding or pulling away from their teeth, making teeth look longer has unfortunately put their gums feeling healthy and looking good, contributing to overall oral wellness on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Philippson works closely with patients towards attaining their toothache being completely resolved, allowing them to eat and sleep comfortably again, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for a canker sore (aphthous ulcer) that was unusually large, very painful, or taking a long time to heal at Dr. Philippson's practice is consistently achieving receiving a new, well-fitting set of dentures that dramatically improved their ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as feeling the smooth, clean surfaces of their teeth after a professional cleaning and polishing.
• Dr. Philippson often consults with patients whose an old silver amalgam filling looking dark, unsightly, or potentially failing significantly limits their enjoyment of feeling great about their smile in photographs and videos or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve receiving a definitive diagnosis for an unusual growth or spot in their mouth, leading to appropriate action and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Philippson to see patients who were troubled by a wish to correct slightly crooked or misaligned front teeth without undergoing full comprehensive orthodontic braces successfully achieve experiencing a significant reduction or complete resolution of a dull, aching pain in their jaw joint area. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like kissing their loved ones with confidence and without oral discomfort.

Your specialized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Philippson, will be meticulously designed to address your unique concerns and help you reach your specific objectives within their area of expertise. Dr. Philippson is committed to providing the highest standard of specialized care, tailored to your individual needs.

Dr. Philippson's practice, a dental office in Duncan, is situated in a central location within the Duncan neighborhood of Duncan. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

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. Philippson.

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

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

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

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

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 always used. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Philippson 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

In BC, 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 specific, limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, 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). It is essential to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to check your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment.

1 - 177 Fourth Street
Duncan, BC, V9L 5J8

Phone: (250) 748-3123

Dr. Gerald Ernest Philippson is a licensed Orthodontist 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. Philippson 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.