Dr. John Scott Kean – Dentist | Victoria, BC

Dr. John Scott Kean is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Victoria, BC, Dr. Kean is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Kean 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. Kean 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. Kean 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. John Scott Kean earned a Dental Degree. With over 33 years of practice since 1992, Dr. Kean has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Kean is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Kean remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Kean's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Kean provides consultations in English.

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

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• 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: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.
• 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.

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: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.

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.

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

• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Fabrication of custom-fitted sports mouthguards to protect teeth and jaws from injury during athletic activities.
• 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.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Saving natural teeth from extraction by treating the inner pulp tissue, commonly for straightforward root canal procedures on teeth with predictable anatomy.
• 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.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Providing information about the causes, signs, and stages of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), and how to prevent or manage it effectively.

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

At Dr. John Scott Kean'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. Kean frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Understanding the frustration needing a thorough dental check-up and clearance before starting a major medical treatment or undergoing surgery (e.g., cardiac surgery, organ transplant, chemotherapy) can cause, Dr. Kean tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their sensitive teeth becoming much less reactive to hot and cold, making eating enjoyable again, allowing for renewed participation in activities like their child focusing better at school, free from the distraction of dental issues.
• Dr. Kean understands that dealing with a desire to discuss options for a comprehensive 'smile makeover' to address multiple aesthetic concerns can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving their child receiving necessary specialized dental care thanks to a timely referral, helping patients comfortably get back to waking up feeling refreshed, without jaw soreness or tension from nighttime grinding and feeling their best.
• Dr. Kean often consults with patients whose experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease significantly limits their enjoyment of speaking clearly and confidently in professional meetings or social gatherings or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve finding a welcoming and skilled dental practice capable of caring for their entire family's needs and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• The journey from an old dental crown that needed to be replaced because it was visibly worn, chipped, poorly fitting, or had decay underneath to wellness often involves Dr. Kean's dedicated care. The milestone is understanding the cause of their tooth wear and having a plan to prevent further damage, which opens the door back to activities such as easily flossing and brushing without encountering pain or bleeding from their gums.

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

Dr. Kean's practice, a well-regarded dental office in Victoria, is situated in a convenient Victoria neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Float Plane Terminals and is accessible via Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Kean 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. Kean will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if any care is needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

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

For most adults, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Kean will recommend a personalized schedule based on your (or your child's) individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, some patients may need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is crucial to follow Dr. Kean's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

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

In British Columbia, the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically does not cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered by MSP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers). Government assistance programs may cover dental care for eligible individuals, such as low-income families or seniors on specific benefits. It's essential to verify your eligibility for any potential public coverage and always check your private dental insurance details before starting treatment.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Kean is the primary care provider for patients of all ages. They offer a wide range of services, including 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 offer cosmetic procedures such as whitening or bonding. General Dentists also provide education on oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists when necessary for more complex dental needs.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Kean 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, particularly modern digital X-rays which use minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used to further minimize exposure. X-rays are only taken when clinically necessary, such as for new patients, to detect decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Kean will determine the appropriate frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to the principle of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

1677 Poplar Avenue
Victoria, BC, V8P 4K5

Phone: (250) 477-8833

Dr. John Scott Kean 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. Kean 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.