Dr. Harry Taehyun Ahn – Dentist | Burnaby, BC

Dr. Harry Taehyun Ahn is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Burnaby, BC, Dr. Ahn is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Ahn 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. Ahn 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. Ahn 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. Harry Taehyun Ahn earned a Dental Degree. With over 3 years of practice since 2022, Dr. Ahn has gained valuable clinical experience. Dr. Ahn is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Ahn remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, benefiting patients through the application of the latest evidence-based approaches in their care.

Key aspects of Dr. Ahn's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Ahn is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Japanese and Korean.

Dr. Harry Taehyun Ahn 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

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Providing immediate care for teeth that have been knocked out (avulsed), dislodged, or fractured due to an accident or injury, aiming to save the tooth if possible.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.

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

• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Providing information about the causes, signs, and stages of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), and how to prevent or manage it effectively.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.
• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Durable and precisely fitting partial crowns designed to preserve more natural tooth structure while effectively repairing significant decay or fractures on the chewing surfaces.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Custom-crafted bridges providing a stable, functional, and natural-looking replacement for lost teeth, preventing shifting of remaining 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.

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

At Dr. Harry Taehyun Ahn'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. Ahn frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Ahn about experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease is to attain their lost tooth being promptly replaced, preventing undesirable shifting of adjacent teeth and maintaining smile aesthetics. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like their child focusing better at school, free from the distraction of dental issues.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed a tooth that had become very dark or discolored, perhaps after a past injury or previous root canal treatment with Dr. Ahn's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to the rough or sharp edge on their tooth being smoothed out, eliminating irritation and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy experiencing the relief of a resolved dental infection and the return to normal comfort once more.
• When an urgent need to replace a recently lost front tooth before other teeth started to shift or their appearance was significantly affected starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to their child being excited to show off their newly sealed or filled tooth to friends, Dr. Ahn and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by being able to enjoy a wider variety of foods without pain or difficulty chewing and a return to comfort and confidence.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing a strong desire to improve the overall aesthetic appearance of their smile, involves working systematically towards their sensitive teeth becoming much less reactive to hot and cold, making eating enjoyable again. Dr. Ahn expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including their ability to enunciate words clearly for better communication.

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

Dr. Ahn's practice is a dental office in Burnaby, situated in the Capitol Hill, Burnaby Heights neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Burnaby City Hall and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium Lines, Bus). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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 to further minimize exposure. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Ahn 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).

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Ahn will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need visits every 3-4 months (e.g., managing active gum disease or high caries risk), while others might have slightly longer intervals. Following Dr. Ahn's specific recommendation is crucial.

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

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. Ahn.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Ahn 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, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Ahn will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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). Always verify your coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

4587 Hastings St
Burnaby, BC, V5C 2K3

Phone: (604) 291-6696

Dr. Harry Taehyun Ahn 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. Ahn 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.