Dr. Karen Michelle Leavitt – Dentist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Karen Michelle Leavitt is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Victoria, BC, Dr. Leavitt is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Leavitt 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. Leavitt 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. Leavitt 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. Karen Michelle Leavitt earned a Dental Degree. With over 28 years of practice since 1997, Dr. Leavitt has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Leavitt 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. Leavitt's dedication to professional excellence and a commitment to staying at the forefront of advancements in the field of dentistry.

Key aspects of Dr. Leavitt's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Leavitt provides consultations in English.

Dr. Karen Michelle Leavitt 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

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.

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

• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Comprehensive discussions to ensure you are fully informed and comfortable with your proposed dental treatment.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Comprehensive advice on preventing gum inflammation and infection for lifelong oral health and overall well-being.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Standard tooth removal procedures for non-impacted teeth that do not require complex surgical intervention.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Custom-crafted bridges providing a stable, functional, and natural-looking replacement for lost teeth, preventing shifting of remaining teeth.

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

At Dr. Karen Michelle Leavitt'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. Leavitt frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Leavitt to see patients who were troubled by a dental problem or discomfort that they had been avoiding or putting off addressing for far too long successfully achieve gaining clarity about their child's future orthodontic needs and the optimal timing for any potential treatment. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like their child eating a healthy, varied diet without complaining of tooth pain.
• Understanding the frustration feeling like their jaw was often stiff, sore, or difficult to move freely, especially upon waking in the morning can cause, Dr. Leavitt tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their new partial or full denture feeling exceptionally stable, comfortable, and looking completely natural, allowing for renewed participation in activities like their ability to taste and appreciate food fully, unmarred by dental pain or infection.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of concerns about potential hereditary dental problems or conditions present in their family history, Dr. Leavitt offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their smile looking its absolute best for an important upcoming wedding, graduation, or other special event. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of their child participating happily in school photos and social activities.
• At Dr. Leavitt's clinic, addressing a desire for professional advice on how to effectively stop their child's cavities from getting worse or prevent new ones from forming means focusing on patient goals. Achieving experiencing a significant reduction in jaw pain and morning headaches after treatment for teeth grinding (bruxism) helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to resuming hobbies that require concentration, now free from dental pain.

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

Dr. Leavitt's dental practice is conveniently located in the Fairfield East, Oaklands neighborhood of Victoria. The clinic is situated near Antique Row and is easily accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). 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 such as the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically do <strong>not</strong> cover routine or major dental procedures provided in private dental clinics for the general public. Some limited dental surgeries performed within a hospital setting <em>may</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are covered out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance plans (often employer-sponsored), or government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., low-income families with children, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). Patients should verify their eligibility for public coverage and review their private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before treatment.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Leavitt is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages. Services typically include 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 include cosmetic procedures such as whitening or bonding. Dr. Leavitt also provides education on oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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. X-rays are only taken when clinically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan treatments). Dr. Leavitt determines the frequency based on individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles.

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

At your first appointment, expect to complete a medical history form, discuss any dental concerns or goals, and undergo a thorough oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Leavitt will then explain their findings and recommend any necessary treatments. It's an opportunity to ask questions.

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Leavitt will personalize your schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors (cavities, gum disease), and existing conditions (e.g., those with active gum disease may need more frequent visits). Follow Dr. Leavitt's specific recommendations.

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

No referral is needed to see a general dentist. You can contact the clinic directly to schedule an appointment with Dr. Leavitt.

What cosmetic dentistry options might Dr. Leavitt offer to improve the appearance of my smile?

Dr. Leavitt focuses on comprehensive general dentistry. While many restorative procedures improve aesthetics, for specific cosmetic concerns, Dr. Leavitt can discuss basic options or refer you to a cosmetic dentist or prosthodontist for more advanced treatments.

2108 Oak Bay Ave
Victoria, BC, V8R 1E7

Phone: (250) 598-1712

Dr. Karen Michelle Leavitt 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. Leavitt 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.