Dr. Jacob Austin Taraskiewicz – Dentist | Salt Spring Island, BC

Dr. Jacob Austin Taraskiewicz is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Salt Spring Island, BC, Dr. Taraskiewicz is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Taraskiewicz 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. Taraskiewicz 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. Taraskiewicz 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. Jacob Austin Taraskiewicz earned a Dental Degree. With over 8 years of practice since 2017, Dr. Taraskiewicz has cultivated a wealth of clinical experience. Dr. Taraskiewicz is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available. This commitment to professional development reflects Dr. Taraskiewicz's unwavering dedication to providing exceptional patient care and staying at the forefront of advancements in the field of dentistry.

Key aspects of Dr. Taraskiewicz's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Taraskiewicz provides consultations in English.

Dr. Jacob Austin Taraskiewicz provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Tooth decay in infants and young children, often affecting the upper front teeth, requiring early intervention and preventative strategies.

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.

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: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.

Dental Pain Emergency

• 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.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.

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

• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Comprehensive discussions to ensure you are fully informed and comfortable with your proposed dental treatment.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
• Dental Sealants: Protective sealants for children and adolescents to safeguard vulnerable back teeth from decay.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Customized full and partial dentures, carefully crafted to help patients regain confidence in their smile, ability to eat a varied diet, and speak clearly.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Replacing one or more missing teeth with a fixed (non-removable) dental bridge, typically anchored to adjacent natural teeth (abutments) or dental implants, to restore chewing function, maintain tooth alignment, and improve smile aesthetics.

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

At Dr. Jacob Austin Taraskiewicz'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. Taraskiewicz frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Understanding the frustration their child frequently complaining of a sore tooth or dental discomfort can cause, Dr. Taraskiewicz tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve a previously 'high' or uncomfortable dental filling being perfectly adjusted, restoring a comfortable and even bite, allowing for renewed participation in activities like their child being free of dental infections that could affect their overall health and school attendance.
• Are you struggling with a piece of an old, large amalgam (silver) filling breaking off, leaving a tooth vulnerable? Dr. Taraskiewicz partners with patients to target feeling refreshed and clean after a thorough professional dental cleaning and check-up, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as confidently eating sticky or chewy foods without fear of dislodging restorations or dentures a much more achievable reality.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Taraskiewicz when they first notice their existing dentures not fitting as comfortably or securely as they used to. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their gums looking pink and healthy again after treatment for gingivitis or early gum disease, enabling them to once again enjoy easily maintaining their daily oral hygiene routine without experiencing bleeding or pain without hesitation.
• Dr. Taraskiewicz expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of a tooth that suddenly felt rough, had a sharp or jagged edge, or was causing irritation. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their chipped or broken tooth being beautifully restored to its natural shape and function, means they can happily and comfortably get back to their ability to enunciate words clearly for better communication.

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

Dr. Taraskiewicz's practice, a dental office in Salt Spring Island, is situated in a central location within the Salt Spring Island neighborhood of Salt Spring Island. 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.

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, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Taraskiewicz 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 for the general population. Some specific, limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or 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 eligibility for any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment.

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

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

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Taraskiewicz will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months). Follow Dr. Taraskiewicz's specific recommendation.

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

No, a referral is typically not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. You can contact the clinic directly to arrange your visit with Dr. Taraskiewicz.

115 Fulford-Ganges Road
Salt Spring Island, BC, V8K 2T9

Phone: (250) 537-1616

Dr. Jacob Austin Taraskiewicz 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. Taraskiewicz 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.