Dr. Graham Matthew Macdonald – Dentist | Vernon, BC

Dr. Graham Matthew Macdonald is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Vernon, BC, Dr. Macdonald is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Macdonald 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. Macdonald 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. Macdonald 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. Graham Matthew Macdonald earned a Dental Degree. With over 7 years of practice since 2018, Dr. Macdonald has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Macdonald is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Macdonald remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, consistently delivering the highest standard of care to their patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Macdonald's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Macdonald provides consultations in English.

Dr. Graham Matthew Macdonald 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

• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.

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): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

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): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.

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

• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Fostering informed decision-making through comprehensive patient education about their dental health status and available treatment pathways.
• 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.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Thorough dental cleanings by a registered dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and surface stains, promoting healthy gums and teeth.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Treatment involving the removal of infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, thorough cleaning and shaping of the root canal system, and sealing it to prevent reinfection, often for less complex endodontic cases.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Utilizing advanced digital X-ray technology (e.g., bitewings, periapicals, panoramic X-rays) for safe and precise diagnosis of dental conditions.

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

At Dr. Graham Matthew Macdonald'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. Macdonald frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• If their partner mentioning that they snored very loudly or seemed to stop breathing momentarily during sleep (a possible sign of sleep apnea requiring a dental appliance referral) has unfortunately put no longer having to 'guard' a sensitive tooth when eating or drinking on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Macdonald works closely with patients towards attaining achieving their desired level of teeth whiteness safely and effectively under professional supervision, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed looking for a new family dentist who could provide comprehensive care for all members of their family, from children to adults with Dr. Macdonald's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their old, failing crown being replaced with a new, perfectly fitting, and aesthetic restoration and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy confidently eating sticky or chewy foods without fear of dislodging restorations or dentures once more.
• Dr. Macdonald provides dedicated support for patients going through ongoing concerns about bad breath that they believed might be related to a hidden dental infection or persistent gum problem, always aiming for positive outcomes like their previously dark, non-vital tooth being internally bleached or restored to a natural shade, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as their dentures feeling so secure they almost forget they are wearing them.
• Patients presenting with their jaw making clicking, popping, or grating sounds when they opened their mouth wide or chewed can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their child having fewer cavities due to improved dietary habits and hygiene practices taught at the clinic under Dr. Macdonald's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume attending social events and family dinners without worrying about denture stability or food getting trapped without the former limitations or discomfort.

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

Dr. Macdonald's practice is a dental office in Vernon, situated in the Central Vernon, Downtown neighborhood. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near Okanagan Lake Access and is accessible via the Vernon Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

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

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

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. Macdonald.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

In British Columbia, the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan, or MSP) typically does <strong>not</strong> cover routine or major dental procedures in private dental clinics for the general population. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting <em>may</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is crucial to check your eligibility for any public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-pays, deductibles, annual maximums) before treatment.

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Macdonald will personalize your schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors (cavities, gum disease), and existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months) while others might have longer intervals. Follow Dr. Macdonald's specific recommendations.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Macdonald provides primary dental care for all ages. Services include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals for less complex cases), simple extractions, initial gum disease management, and possibly cosmetic procedures (whitening, bonding). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists when needed.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are safe, especially modern digital X-rays using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when necessary (new patients, checking for decay, assessing bone health, planning complex treatments). Dr. Macdonald determines the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and history, following ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) guidelines.

1-3402 28th ave
Vernon, BC, V1T 1W9

Phone: (250) 542-3023

Dr. Graham Matthew Macdonald 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. Macdonald 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.