Dr. Joy Marion Richman

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Joy Marion Richman addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Dental situations where standard 2D X-rays (bitewings, panoramic) are insufficient and a 3D Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan is required for accurate diagnosis, assessment of anatomical complexities, or detailed planning of complex treatments like implants, orthodontics, or endodontics.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Seeking a dental provider experienced in managing the oral health of children with complex medical histories.
• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Customized dental approaches to accommodate children with diverse health backgrounds, sensory sensitivities, and varying levels of cooperation, ensuring they receive optimal oral healthcare in a supportive and appropriately adapted setting.

Dental Trauma Children

• Traumatic Injuries to Primary or Young Permanent Teeth in Children: Specialized pediatric management of traumatic dental injuries, including splinting, pulp therapy, and aesthetic repairs, tailored to the child's age and dental development.

Dental Development Issues

• Anomalies or Delays in Tooth Development or Eruption Sequence: Diagnosing and managing developmental dental problems to ensure a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing adult dentition, sometimes involving a multidisciplinary approach.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Richman. 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Comprehensive discussions to ensure you are fully informed and comfortable with your proposed dental treatment.
• Dental Care for Children with Special Health Care Needs: A dedicated and patient approach to ensure all children, regardless of ability, receive optimal dental care in a supportive setting.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Richman. 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. Joy Marion Richman 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. Richman is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Joy Marion Richman's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Richman understands that dealing with wanting to understand what was causing their teeth to appear worn down, shorter, or a bit translucent can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving their broken amalgam filling being safely removed and replaced with a modern restoration, helping patients comfortably get back to enjoying the full taste of food without a metallic taste from old fillings or bad breath and feeling their best.
• Through Dr. Richman's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from a dental problem or discomfort that they had been avoiding or putting off addressing for far too long often find they can readily achieve the bump or swelling on their gums being diagnosed and appropriately treated, resolving their worry and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort.
• For patients where needing urgent treatment for an infected or abscessed tooth to avoid losing it and to relieve severe pain is a primary concern, Dr. Richman focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in achieving straighter teeth and an improved bite with discreet clear aligner therapy. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully feeling great about their smile in photographs and videos.
• Dr. Richman expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of a desire for a more permanent, comfortable, and functional solution than their current removable partial denture. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their previously sensitive exposed tooth roots being protected and desensitized, means they can happily and comfortably get back to their child participating happily in school photos and social activities.

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

Dr. Richman's practice, a dental office in Vancouver, is situated in the UBC Campus Proper neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near BC Place (nearby) 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.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Richman 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. Richman 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.

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 any potential 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. Richman 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 to see a general dentist like Dr. Richman?

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

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, social assistance recipients). It is important to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at the clinic.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Richman will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals). It's important to follow Dr. Richman's specific recommendation.

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. Richman. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Richman 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.

2350 Health Sciences Mall, UBC Life Sciences Institute
Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3

Phone: (604) 822-3568

Dr. Joy Marion Richman 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. Richman 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.