Dr. Jennifer Channa Park – Dentist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Jennifer Channa Park is a Pediatric Dentist. Practicing at BC Children's Hospital, Dept of Dentistry in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Park is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Park 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. As a certified specialist in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Park provides comprehensive and specialized preventative and therapeutic oral health care exclusively for infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special health care needs. This includes behavior guidance, sedation, and treatment of early childhood caries and developmental dental issues. Dr. Park 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 BC Children's Hospital, Dept of Dentistry.

Dr. Jennifer Channa Park earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Park brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Park is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment to professional development ensures that Dr. Park remains at the forefront of pediatric dentistry, employing the latest techniques and technologies to deliver the best possible care to their young patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Park's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; 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. Park is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Korean.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Jennifer Channa Park addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Dental Development Issues

• Anomalies or Delays in Tooth Development or Eruption Sequence: Concerns about significantly delayed eruption of primary or permanent teeth, congenitally missing teeth (hypodontia), supernumerary (extra) teeth, or teeth that are abnormally shaped, sized (microdontia/macrodontia), or positioned.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.

Dental Trauma Children

• Traumatic Injuries to Primary or Young Permanent Teeth in Children: Seeking expert urgent and long-term care for dental trauma in children to maximize the chances of saving injured teeth, managing pain and infection, and monitoring for potential complications to developing permanent teeth.

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

• Comprehensive Oral Health Care for Infants, Children & Adolescents: Expert management of all aspects of children's oral health, focusing on prevention, early intervention, and positive dental experiences.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Utilizing advanced digital X-ray technology (e.g., bitewings, periapicals, panoramic X-rays) for safe and precise diagnosis of dental conditions.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Ensuring you fully understand your dental care plan and have all your questions answered before proceeding with any treatment, fostering informed consent.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.
• Management of Early Childhood Caries (ECC) & Cavities in Children: Addressing tooth decay in infants and toddlers with a focus on minimally invasive techniques and long-term prevention.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Park is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At BC Children's Hospital, Dept of Dentistry, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• When wondering if their child would likely need orthodontic treatment in the future based on their current dental development begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Park helps patients strive for their gums appearing consistently healthy, pink, and firm, without any signs of puffiness or inflammation. This makes participating in activities such as no longer needing to take frequent pain medication for dental issues a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Patients presenting with a strong desire to improve the overall aesthetic appearance of their smile can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their slightly crooked front teeth being straightened effectively with a conservative cosmetic option under Dr. Park's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume no longer experiencing the embarrassment or discomfort of ill-fitting or noticeable dental work without the former limitations or discomfort.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Park when they first notice their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their tooth's extreme sensitivity to cold being resolved after identifying and treating the cause, enabling them to once again enjoy their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet without hesitation.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of wondering if their child might need braces or orthodontic assessment for crooked teeth, Dr. Park offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach achieving their dream smile through a well-planned and executed smile makeover. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of enjoying the sensation of a clean, healthy mouth after every meal and hygiene routine.

Your specialized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Park, will be meticulously designed to address your unique concerns and help you reach your specific objectives within their area of expertise. Dr. Park is committed to providing the highest standard of specialized care, tailored to your individual needs.

Dr. Park's practice, BC Children's Hospital, Dept of Dentistry, is situated in the Shaughnessy, Arbutus Ridge South neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

In British Columbia, 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 limited dental surgeries performed within a hospital setting might be covered by MSP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). Check your eligibility for any public coverage and always review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, annual maximums) before treatment at BC Children's Hospital, Dept of Dentistry.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Park will personalize your schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors (cavities, gum disease), and any existing conditions. Some patients may require more frequent visits (every 3-4 months) while others might have slightly longer intervals. Follow Dr. Park's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

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

Typically, no referral is needed to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Contact BC Children's Hospital, Dept of Dentistry directly to arrange your visit with Dr. Park.

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, a referral from your general dentist (like Dr. Park) is often recommended, and sometimes required by the specialist or your insurance plan. A referral ensures the specialist has necessary background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Park determines you need specialist care, they will provide a referral for coordinated care. Check with the specialist's office or your insurance provider if unsure.

How does Dr. Park as a Pediatric Dentist manage children with dental anxiety or special healthcare needs?

Dr. Park has specialized training in behavior guidance techniques (tell-show-do, positive reinforcement, distraction) and creates a child-friendly environment. Dr. Park has experience with patients with various needs and employs a patient and gentle approach. Options like nitrous oxide sedation may be available; for more extensive needs, a referral for deeper sedation or general anesthesia may be considered (if applicable to Dr. Park's practice).

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. X-rays are taken only when necessary (new patients, checking for decay, assessing bone health, or planning complex treatments). Dr. Park determines the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) guidelines.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Park at BC Children's Hospital, Dept of Dentistry?

Your first appointment will involve getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to complete a medical history form, discuss dental issues or goals, and undergo a detailed oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Park will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a good time to ask questions.

BC Children's Hospital, Dept of Dentistry
4480 Oak St B K0
Vancouver, BC, V6H 3V4

Phone: (604) 875-2114

Dr. Jennifer Channa Park is a licensed Pediatric 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. Park 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.