Dr. Jake Edward Bessie – Dentist | Whistler, BC

Dr. Jake Edward Bessie is a Dentist. Practicing at Alpenglow Dental in Whistler, BC, Dr. Bessie is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Bessie 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. Bessie 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. Bessie 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 Alpenglow Dental.

Dr. Jake Edward Bessie earned a Dental Degree. With over 21 years of practice since 2004, Dr. Bessie has accumulated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Bessie is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the benefit of the latest advancements in dental techniques and technology, reflecting a dedication to providing the highest quality of care.

Key aspects of Dr. Bessie's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Bessie provides consultations in English.

Dr. Jake Edward Bessie 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

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Early to moderate stages of gum disease involving some bone loss around teeth, managed by GPs with deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Emergency management of traumatic dental injuries to maximize the chances of successful reimplantation or repair.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.

Common Dental Issues

• 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: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Bessie. 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): 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.
• 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.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Nutritional advice tailored to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent dental diseases.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Proactive examinations as part of your check-up to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.

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

At Alpenglow Dental, 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. Bessie frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Bessie often consults with patients whose simply needing a routine, comprehensive dental check-up and a thorough professional cleaning significantly limits their enjoyment of maintaining a youthful appearance complemented by a healthy and attractive smile or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve their sensitive teeth becoming much less reactive to hot and cold, making eating enjoyable again and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• Through Dr. Bessie's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from a persistent and unexplained bad taste in their mouth, even after brushing often find they can readily achieve achieving their desired level of teeth whiteness safely and effectively under professional supervision and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like their ability to enunciate words clearly for better communication.
• Patients presenting with noticing a concerning dark spot on one of their teeth, possibly a cavity can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism under Dr. Bessie's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume resuming hobbies that require concentration, now free from dental pain without the former limitations or discomfort.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for their existing dentures not fitting as comfortably or securely as they used to at Dr. Bessie's practice is consistently achieving their jaw no longer clicking or popping painfully, and jaw movement feeling smoother. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as enjoying romantic moments without self-consciousness about their breath or smile.

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

Alpenglow Dental, where Dr. Bessie practices, is situated in the Whistler Resort Municipality Proper neighborhood of Whistler. The clinic is conveniently located near Whistler Village Core and is accessible via Whistler Transit System (BC Transit). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Bessie at Alpenglow Dental?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Bessie and the team at Alpenglow Dental 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. Bessie will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time 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 to minimize exposure further. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Bessie 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). It is crucial to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

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

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

I'm very anxious about dental visits. Does Dr. Bessie offer any sedation options?

Dr. Bessie and our team at Alpenglow Dental are committed to making your dental experience as comfortable as possible. While we may not offer extensive sedation options in-house, please discuss any anxieties you have with Dr. Bessie. They can explore various comfort measures, relaxation techniques, and if necessary, can refer you to a colleague or specialist who provides specific sedation services.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Alpenglow Dental directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Bessie.

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

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

Alpenglow Dental
107-8200 Bear Paw Trail
Whistler, BC, V8E 1M2

Phone: (604) 962-2400

Dr. Jake Edward Bessie 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. Bessie 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.