Dr. Kimberley Kent – Dentist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Kimberley Kent is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Kent is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Kent 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. Kent 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. Kent 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. Kimberley Kent earned a Dental Degree. With over 30 years of practice since 1995, Dr. Kent has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Kent is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Kent remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, consistently delivering the highest standard of care to their patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Kent's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Kent provides consultations in English.

Dr. Kimberley Kent 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): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• 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 Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.

Gum Disease Initial

• 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.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.

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

• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): Removal of some erupted or partially erupted teeth, including some erupted wisdom teeth, that may require minor surgical techniques such as sectioning the tooth or minimal bone removal for access, depending on the dentist's training, experience, and case complexity.
• 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.
• Dental Sealants: Protective sealants for children and adolescents to safeguard vulnerable back teeth from decay.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Replacing one or more missing teeth with a fixed (non-removable) dental bridge, typically anchored to adjacent natural teeth (abutments) or dental implants, to restore chewing function, maintain tooth alignment, and improve smile aesthetics.

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

At Dr. Kimberley Kent'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. Kent frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients experiencing a tooth that suddenly became extremely and uncharacteristically sensitive to cold water or air, causing sharp pain often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Kent's practice, a key objective is their knocked-out tooth being successfully reimplanted and saved thanks to prompt emergency care, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in delivering important presentations or public speeches with clarity and self-assurance.
• Dr. Kent provides dedicated support for patients going through experiencing a dull, persistent ache in their jaw joint area that sometimes radiated towards their ear or temple, always aiming for positive outcomes like clarity on their child's dental eruption sequence and any potential developmental concerns, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as their child actively participating in preventative dental care and understanding its importance.
• If feeling like their jaw was often stiff, sore, or difficult to move freely, especially upon waking in the morning has unfortunately put actively engaging in conversations without being preoccupied by a dental concern on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Kent works closely with patients towards attaining their child having fewer cavities due to improved dietary habits and hygiene practices taught at the clinic, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• Dr. Kent's comprehensive care for experiencing significant fear or deep-seated anxiety about upcoming dental visits is meticulously designed to result in their toothache being completely resolved, allowing them to eat and sleep comfortably again. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as no longer having to worry about a loose crown or bridge when they are out without dental worries.

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

Dr. Kent's practice, a dental office in Vancouver, is situated in the Yaletown, Downtown South neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Harbour Centre 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 services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Kent typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Kent 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, and sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges, and dentures), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may also offer cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. Dr. Kent also provides valuable education on maintaining good oral hygiene and will refer 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 British Columbia, provincial health plans like the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically do <strong>not</strong> cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting <em>might</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, or social assistance recipients). It is crucial to check your eligibility for any public coverage and to review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before treatment.

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

Common signs of gum disease include gums that bleed easily while brushing or flossing, gums that appear red, puffy, or sore, and persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth. More advanced gum disease may involve gums pulling away from your teeth, noticeable tooth mobility, or discomfort when chewing. Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Kent are essential for early detection and treatment.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, especially modern digital X-rays that use minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used to further minimize exposure. X-rays are only taken when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to detect cavities, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Kent will determine the appropriate frequency based on your individual needs, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

No, a referral is not typically needed to see a general dentist like Dr. Kent. You can contact the clinic directly to schedule an appointment.

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

Your first visit will involve completing a medical history form, discussing your dental concerns and goals with Dr. Kent, and undergoing a thorough examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Kent will then explain their findings and recommend any necessary treatment.

What is the process for becoming a new patient at our clinic with Dr. Kent?

To become a new patient, please call our office at (604) 685-5456 or visit our website if online booking is available. Our team will gather some basic information and schedule your first appointment, which will include a comprehensive examination and consultation. Please bring your medical history and dental insurance information.

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Kent will personalize your schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months), while others may be able to have longer intervals between appointments. Always follow Dr. Kent's specific recommendations.

205 - 179 Davie Street
Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2Y1

Phone: (604) 685-5456

Dr. Kimberley Kent 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. Kent 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.