Dr. Hui-Kuan Chen

Dr. Hui-Kuan Chen provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

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): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.

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

• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Saving natural teeth from extraction by treating the inner pulp tissue, commonly for straightforward root canal procedures on teeth with predictable anatomy.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Fabrication of custom-fitted sports mouthguards to protect teeth and jaws from injury during athletic activities.
• Dental Sealants: A simple and effective preventative measure to reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Dedicated time to review diagnostic findings, explain recommended procedures, and collaboratively create a dental care strategy that meets your needs and goals.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Personalized instruction and demonstration of proper brushing and flossing techniques to effectively remove plaque and maintain optimal oral hygiene at home.

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

At Dr. Hui-Kuan Chen'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. Chen frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Chen about their child's prolonged thumb-sucking habit and concerns about its impact on their teeth and jaw development is to attain their jaw no longer clicking or popping painfully, and jaw movement feeling smoother. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like knowing their teeth are well-protected from decay and damage.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for their child being overdue for their regular dental visit and preventative care at Dr. Chen's practice is consistently achieving the sore spot or ulcer in their mouth healing completely after diagnosis and treatment. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as simply relaxing and not having dental pain or problems on their mind constantly.
• Patients experiencing their gums bleeding a little almost every time they brushed or flossed often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Chen's practice, a key objective is no longer experiencing annoying food impaction between their teeth after restorative treatment, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in being able to eat in public restaurants without anxiety about their teeth or dentures.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Chen to see patients who were troubled by their gums feeling generally puffy, looking a bit darker red than usual, or exhibiting other signs of inflammation successfully achieve their teeth feeling more stable and their bite more aligned after corrective treatment. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like their child actively participating in preventative dental care and understanding its importance.

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

Dr. Chen's practice, a dental office in Burnaby, is situated in the Central Burnaby, BCIT Area neighborhood of Burnaby. The clinic is conveniently located near BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology) and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium Lines, Bus). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

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

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 to minimize any potential 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. Chen will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

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

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Chen is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages. They offer 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 may offer cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also provide education on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

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

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

What are dental implants, and how do I know if I'm a suitable candidate?

Dental implants are small, medical-grade titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They provide a strong foundation for fixed (crowns, bridges) or removable replacement teeth (dentures). Good candidates generally have healthy gums and adequate jawbone density. Dr. Chen can perform a comprehensive assessment, including X-rays or 3D CBCT imaging, to evaluate your suitability. Dr. Chen can discuss implants as an option and refer you to an implant specialist if appropriate.

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 limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance, or government assistance programs for eligible groups. Check your insurance coverage and eligibility for any government programs before treatment.

307 - 6411 Nelson Avenue
Burnaby, BC, V5H 4H3

Phone: (604) 433-2225

Dr. Hui-Kuan Chen 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. Chen 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.