Dr. Gurpal Buttar – Dentist | Penticton, BC

Dr. Gurpal Buttar is a Periodontist. Practicing at a periodontist practice in Penticton, BC, Dr. Buttar is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Buttar 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 Periodontics, Dr. Buttar focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) diseases, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Services include non-surgical and surgical periodontal therapies, gum grafting, bone grafting, and the surgical placement and maintenance of dental implants, as well as management of peri-implant diseases. Dr. Buttar 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. Gurpal Buttar earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery. Dr. Buttar brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Buttar is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most current and effective treatments available, reflecting Dr. Buttar's dedication to excellence in the field of Periodontics.

Key aspects of Dr. Buttar's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Buttar provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery, Dr. Gurpal Buttar addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.

Dental Implant Complications

• Complications with Existing Dental Implants (e.g., Peri-implantitis, Loosening, Fracture): Seeking expert diagnosis and management for failing or problematic dental implants to preserve their longevity or address complications effectively.

Receding Gums Bone Loss

• Significant Gum Recession or Localized Jawbone Loss Requiring Augmentation: Seeking specialist surgical treatment to restore lost gum or bone tissue for improved periodontal health, functional support for teeth/implants, and enhanced smile appearance.

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

• Comprehensive Periodontal Examination & Diagnosis: Thorough examination of the supporting structures of the teeth to identify and manage gum-related problems.
• Gum Grafting Surgery (Connective Tissue Grafts, Free Gingival Grafts): Specialized techniques to augment thin or receding gum tissue, enhancing periodontal health and smile appearance.
• Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy (Scaling & Root Planing): Deep cleaning procedures performed by a periodontist or specialized hygienist to remove plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins from above and below the gum line, smoothing tooth root surfaces to promote gum reattachment.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: High-resolution dental photography for documenting conditions, planning treatments, and tracking progress.
• Dental Bone Grafting & Ridge Augmentation: Surgical procedures to rebuild or augment jawbone volume that has been lost due to tooth extraction, gum disease, or trauma, often in preparation for dental implant placement or to improve denture stability.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery, Dr. Buttar is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Gurpal Buttar's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• For those affected by their gums appearing red, swollen, or inflamed in certain areas of their mouth, Dr. Buttar provides solutions that lead to receiving a new, well-fitting set of dentures that dramatically improved their ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to their child focusing better at school, free from the distraction of dental issues.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Buttar about a persistent sore spot, ulcer, or unusual lesion in their mouth that hadn't healed on its own is to attain their recurrent canker sores becoming less frequent or less severe with management strategies. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like sleeping peacefully without the interruption of dental pain or discomfort from oral appliances.
• Dr. Buttar's comprehensive care for noticing a concerning dark spot on one of their teeth, possibly a cavity is meticulously designed to result in clarity on their child's dental eruption sequence and any potential developmental concerns. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as no longer having to 'guard' a sensitive tooth when eating or drinking without dental worries.
• With Dr. Buttar's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing a dental problem or discomfort that they had been avoiding or putting off addressing for far too long is focused on achieving their smile looking its absolute best for an important upcoming wedding, graduation, or other special event. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to their child understanding the importance of regular dental check-ups for a lifetime of health without dental concerns.

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

Dr. Buttar's practice, a dental office in Penticton, is situated in the Penticton Central, South End, Kaledon, Okanagan Falls, Naramata Bench (Rural South) neighborhood of Penticton. The clinic is conveniently located near Channel Parkway and is accessible via South Okanagan-Similkameen Transit System (BC Transit). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

For most adults and children, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Buttar will personalize your schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, individuals managing active gum disease or those at high risk for cavities might need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months), while patients with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Buttar's specific recommendations for your optimal oral health.

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

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

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's often recommended, and sometimes required by the specialist or your insurance plan, to have a referral from your general dentist. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Buttar identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. If you are unsure, check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Buttar and the team will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to complete a medical history form, discuss any dental issues or goals, and undergo a thorough oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken for a complete assessment. Dr. Buttar will then explain their findings and any recommended treatments. This is a great opportunity 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 used. X-rays are only taken when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Buttar will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, following 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 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, through private dental insurance (often from employers), or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., low-income families with children, seniors on specific benefits). Always verify your eligibility for public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

220 - 1516 Fairview Rd
Penticton, BC, V2A 6A3

Phone: (778) 476-1577

Dr. Gurpal Buttar is a licensed Periodontist 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. Buttar 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.