Dr. Junchen Cao – Dentist | Medicine Hat, AB

Dr. Junchen Cao is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at a dentist practice in Medicine Hat, AB, Dr. Cao is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Cao 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. Cao 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. Cao also provides comprehensive general dental care with various certified levels of sedation (such as nitrous oxide/'laughing gas', oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on specific qualifications) to help anxious patients, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals undergoing extensive procedures feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable throughout their dental treatment.

Dr. Junchen Cao earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Cao brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Cao offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. Dr. Cao is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Cao remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, allowing them to provide patients with the most effective and comfortable treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Cao's dental practice philosophy include: 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; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Cao 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. Cao provides consultations in English.

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

Common Dental Issues

• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.
• 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): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Emergency management of traumatic dental injuries to maximize the chances of successful reimplantation or repair.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Seeking a pediatric dental specialist or a general dentist with significant experience and resources in providing safe, effective, and compassionate dental care for children with unique and complex needs, potentially including the use of advanced behavior guidance techniques or sedation/anesthesia.
• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Children with significant systemic health conditions (e.g., organ transplants, cancer, uncontrolled diabetes) who require careful dental management and coordination with their medical specialists to prevent oral complications and ensure dental treatments are performed safely.

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

• Oral Cancer Screening: Proactive examinations as part of your check-up to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.
• Dental Sealants: Application of a thin, protective coating to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to seal out food particles and bacteria, preventing cavities in deep grooves and pits.
• Oral Conscious Sedation (Anxiolysis): Utilizing carefully selected oral medications to help patients achieve a comfortable, calm, and stress-free dental experience, facilitating necessary treatment for apprehensive individuals.
• Gum Contouring / Gingival Reshaping (Cosmetic Periodontal Plastic Surgery): Minor surgical or laser-assisted gum reshaping to create a more balanced, symmetrical, and harmonious smile by optimizing the gingival architecture.
• Smile Makeovers (Comprehensive Cosmetic Treatment Planning): Comprehensive aesthetic assessment and collaborative planning of multiple cosmetic dental procedures (e.g., whitening, veneers, bonding, crowns, gum contouring) to achieve a desired, harmonious, and transformative smile outcome.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Cao. 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. Junchen Cao adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

At Dr. Junchen Cao'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. Cao frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For patients where their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession is a primary concern, Dr. Cao focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in their previously dark, non-vital tooth being internally bleached or restored to a natural shade. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully delivering important presentations or public speeches with clarity and self-assurance.
• Dr. Cao expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of their child having a severe toothache that kept them up at night and required immediate attention. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by achieving their dream smile through a well-planned and executed smile makeover, means they can happily and comfortably get back to laughing openly and heartily without worrying about the appearance of their teeth.
• Through Dr. Cao's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from their child needing preventative dental sealants applied to their newly erupted permanent molars to protect against cavities often find they can readily achieve clarity on their child's dental eruption sequence and any potential developmental concerns and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like confidently eating sticky or chewy foods without fear of dislodging restorations or dentures.
• Understanding the frustration wondering if their child might need braces or orthodontic assessment for crooked teeth can cause, Dr. Cao tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their previously sensitive exposed tooth roots being protected and desensitized, allowing for renewed participation in activities like their smile reflecting their inner happiness and confidence.

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

Dr. Cao's practice is a dental office located in the NE Crescent Heights, Ranchlands neighborhood of Medicine Hat. The clinic is conveniently located near Co-op Place (Arena) and is accessible via Medicine Hat Transit. Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

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. Cao.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Cao 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). Dr. Cao also educates patients on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs.

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 diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Cao 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).

I'm very anxious about dental visits. Does Dr. Cao offer any sedation options?

Yes, Dr. Cao understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, our clinic offers various sedation options, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral conscious sedation. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Cao during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

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

In AB, provincial health plans like AHCIP 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 or government assistance programs for eligible groups. Always check your private dental insurance and eligibility for public coverage before treatment.

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

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Cao will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions. Follow Dr. Cao's specific recommendation.

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

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive dental examination: 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. Cao will discuss findings, address concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled.

10 - 2020 STRACHAN RD SE
Medicine Hat, AB, T1B 0M9

Phone: (587) 750-4111

Dr. Junchen Cao 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. Cao 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.