Dr. James Chi Yin Hu – Dentist | North Vancouver, BC

Dr. James Chi Yin Hu is a Dentist. Practicing at Legacy Dental Centre in North Vancouver, BC, Dr. Hu is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Hu 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. Hu 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. Hu 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 Legacy Dental Centre.

Dr. James Chi Yin Hu earned a Dental Degree. With over 21 years of practice since 2004, Dr. Hu has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Hu is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most current and effective treatments available, reflecting Dr. Hu's ongoing pursuit of excellence in the dental field.

Key aspects of Dr. Hu's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Hu is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Bangla, Hindi and Urdu.

Dr. James Chi Yin Hu 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

• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• 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

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.
• 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. Hu. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• 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.
• 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.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Custom-crafted bridges providing a stable, functional, and natural-looking replacement for lost teeth, preventing shifting of remaining teeth.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.

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

At Legacy Dental Centre, 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. Hu frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Are you struggling with a persistent sore spot, ulcer, or unusual lesion in their mouth that hadn't healed on its own? Dr. Hu partners with patients to target their jaw feeling less stiff and more mobile after TMJ therapy or a custom oral appliance, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as being able to eat in public restaurants without anxiety about their teeth or dentures a much more achievable reality.
• Dr. Hu's comprehensive care for wanting to learn the best and most effective way to clean around their existing dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances is meticulously designed to result in a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as their dental implants feeling and functioning just like their natural teeth without dental worries.
• Managing a tooth that suddenly became extremely and uncharacteristically sensitive to cold water or air, causing sharp pain effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Hu and the dental team. The clear aim is always a tooth that had become painfully sensitive to sweet foods now feeling completely normal and comfortable, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying feeling comfortable and pain-free throughout their day, no longer bothered by a nagging dental problem and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• If an old silver amalgam filling looking dark, unsightly, or potentially failing has unfortunately put no longer needing to frequently visit the dentist for recurring problems due to better preventative care on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Hu works closely with patients towards attaining feeling well-equipped with advice on how to care for their toddler's developing teeth, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.

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

Legacy Dental Centre, where Dr. Hu practices, is situated in a central location within the North Vancouver neighborhood of North Vancouver. 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.

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

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

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. Hu 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).

Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see a dental specialist (e.g., Orthodontist, Periodontist)?

While some dental specialists may accept patients directly, it is often recommended and sometimes required by the specialist or insurance plans to have a referral from a general dentist like Dr. Hu. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Hu identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance if unsure.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

In BC, provincial health plans (like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC) 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, social assistance recipients). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Hu 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.

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

Generally, every 6 months is recommended for most patients for preventative care. Dr. Hu will recommend a personalized schedule based on 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. Hu's specific recommendation.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Hu at Legacy Dental Centre?

Your first visit 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. Hu will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled.

Legacy Dental Centre
1975 Lonsdale Ave Suite 105
North Vancouver, BC, V7M 2K3

Phone: (604) 990-7727

Dr. James Chi Yin Hu 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. Hu 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.