Dr. James C. Chen – Dentist | Calgary, AB

Dr. James C. Chen is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Calgary, AB, Dr. Chen is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Chen is licensed by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in AB. Dr. Chen 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. Chen 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. James C. Chen earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Chen brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Chen is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Chen remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technology, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatment options available. Dr. Chen's dedication to professional development reflects their commitment to providing the highest quality of care.

Key aspects of Dr. Chen's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Chen provides consultations in English.

Dr. James C. Chen 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

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.

Gum Disease Initial

• 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.
• 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.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Addressing broken or cracked teeth to restore their form, function, and prevent infection.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Persistent unpleasant breath odor often linked to oral hygiene issues, gum disease, dry mouth, or other dental conditions.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.

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.

• Fluoride Treatments: Application of topical fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel, prevent demineralization, and reduce the risk of cavities, especially for children and at-risk adults.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Educating patients on the importance of gum health and the steps they can take to maintain healthy periodontal tissues for life.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Addressing common issues with loose, uncomfortable, or damaged dentures to restore proper fit and patient satisfaction.
• Dental Crowns (Caps): Durable and aesthetic crowns designed to restore the form, function, and integrity of significantly damaged or endodontically treated teeth.
• 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. James C. Chen adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

At Dr. James C. 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:

• Managing one of their teeth starting to feel a bit loose or wobbly effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Chen and the dental team. The clear aim is always their jaw no longer clicking or popping painfully, and jaw movement feeling smoother, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying being able to use their teeth for all normal functions without a second thought and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• A key objective when treating feeling like food consistently and annoyingly got stuck between certain teeth after meals at Dr. Chen's welcoming dental clinic is achieving successfully replacing their missing tooth with a strong, natural-looking dental implant. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like attending social events and family dinners without worrying about denture stability or food getting trapped.
• Patients experiencing a desire to discuss options for a comprehensive 'smile makeover' to address multiple aesthetic concerns often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Chen's practice, a key objective is their tooth's extreme sensitivity to cold being resolved after identifying and treating the cause, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion.
• Patients presenting with a tooth getting accidentally knocked out or avulsed during a sports game or accident can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their knocked-out tooth being successfully reimplanted and saved thanks to prompt emergency care under Dr. Chen's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume delivering important presentations or public speeches with clarity and self-assurance without the former limitations or discomfort.

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 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 Calgary, is situated in the SE: Acadia, Fairview, Willow Park East neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near Bow River Pathway and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider 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.

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. Chen 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. Chen for a check-up and cleaning?

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Chen 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., those managing active gum disease or at high caries risk), while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is important to follow Dr. Chen's specific recommendation.

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, offering a wide range of services. These include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may include cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). Dr. Chen also provides education on oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Chen will typically involve a comprehensive dental examination. This includes a review of your medical and dental history, a thorough check of your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues (including an oral cancer screening), and any necessary X-rays. Dr. Chen will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed during this visit or scheduled for a subsequent appointment.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

In Alberta, provincial health plans like the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) 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 by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). It's 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.

301-6455 MACLEOD TR SW
Calgary, AB, T2H 0K9

Phone: (403) 252-3978

Dr. James C. Chen is a licensed Dentist in AB, regulated by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) under the Health Professions Act (Alberta).

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

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.