Dr. Kerr Williamson – Dentist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Kerr Williamson is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Victoria, BC, Dr. Williamson is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Williamson 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. Williamson 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. Williamson 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. Kerr Williamson earned a Dental Degree. With over 19 years of practice since 2006, Dr. Williamson has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Williamson 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. Williamson's ongoing pursuit of excellence in the field of dentistry.

Key aspects of Dr. Williamson's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; 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. Williamson provides consultations in English.

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

Dental Pain Emergency

• 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.
• 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.

Gum Disease Initial

• 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.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Early to moderate stages of gum disease involving some bone loss around teeth, managed by GPs with deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.

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. Williamson. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.
• 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.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Comprehensive discussions to ensure you are fully informed and comfortable with your proposed dental treatment.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Providing custom-made night guards (occlusal splints) to protect teeth from the effects of nocturnal bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching).

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

At Dr. Kerr Williamson'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. Williamson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When a new or changing bump, swelling, or unusual growth on their gums or oral tissues that they were worried about starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to enjoying romantic moments without self-consciousness about their breath or smile, Dr. Williamson and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their infected tooth being successfully saved from extraction through root canal treatment and a return to comfort and confidence.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of a wisdom tooth starting to cause significant pain, pressure, or signs of infection, Dr. Williamson offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach having a custom-fitted sports mouthguard to protect their smile during athletic activities. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of their smile being a positive asset in their personal and professional life.
• Patients presenting with their smile not looking as bright, white, or vibrant as it used to, prompting interest in whitening can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of gaining clarity about their child's future orthodontic needs and the optimal timing for any potential treatment under Dr. Williamson's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume their child being able_to focus on learning and playing without the interruption of dental pain without the former limitations or discomfort.
• At Dr. Williamson's clinic, addressing a child in their care who had special healthcare needs (physical, cognitive, or behavioral) and required a particularly patient, understanding, and accommodating dental provider means focusing on patient goals. Achieving feeling confident about effectively cleaning around their dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances after personalized instruction helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to being able to use their teeth for all normal functions without a second thought.

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

Dr. Williamson's practice, a well-regarded dental office in Victoria, is situated in a convenient Victoria neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and is accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

What payment options are available at the clinic for dental services?

For your convenience, our clinic accepts various payment methods, including cash, debit cards, Visa, MasterCard, and sometimes American Express. We also work with many private dental insurance plans. Please discuss specific payment arrangements and insurance details with our administrative team prior to your treatment. Payment for services is generally expected at the time treatment is rendered.

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 always 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 more complex treatments. Dr. Williamson 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).

What are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?

Be aware of gums that bleed easily during oral hygiene, appear red or puffy, or feel sore, as these are common indicators of gingivitis. Persistent bad taste or bad breath can also be a sign. More advanced gum disease (periodontitis) may involve gums pulling away from teeth, noticeable tooth mobility, or discomfort when chewing. Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Williamson are crucial for early detection and effective treatment.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Williamson is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services. These include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, dental 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 like whitening or bonding. Dr. Williamson also provides education on oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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. 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 provided by employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). It's crucial to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

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

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

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Williamson for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with the clinic.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Williamson will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months), while others might have slightly longer intervals. It's essential to follow Dr. Williamson's specific recommendations.

318 Goldstream Ave.
Victoria, BC, V9B 2W3

Phone: (250) 474-4014

Dr. Kerr Williamson 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. Williamson 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.