Dr. Laura Sau Yung Wan – Dentist | West Vancouver, BC

Dr. Laura Sau Yung Wan is a Dentist. Practicing at Bayside Family Dentistry in West Vancouver, BC, Dr. Wan is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Wan 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. Wan 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. Wan 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 Bayside Family Dentistry.

Dr. Laura Sau Yung Wan earned a Dental Degree. With over 23 years of practice since 2002, Dr. Wan has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Wan is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available, reflecting Dr. Wan's dedication to professional excellence and a commitment to staying at the forefront of modern dentistry.

Key aspects of Dr. Wan's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Wan is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Cantonese and Mandarin.

Dr. Laura Sau Yung Wan 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

• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.
• 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): Providing immediate care for teeth that have been knocked out (avulsed), dislodged, or fractured due to an accident or injury, aiming to save the tooth if possible.

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): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Wan. 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): Thorough dental cleanings by a registered dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and surface stains, promoting healthy gums and teeth.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Removable prosthetic solutions, including conventional and implant-retained options, to effectively replace missing teeth, thereby improving oral function, facial support, and overall appearance.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Ensuring you fully understand your dental care plan and have all your questions answered before proceeding with any treatment, fostering informed consent.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Treatment involving the removal of infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, thorough cleaning and shaping of the root canal system, and sealing it to prevent reinfection, often for less complex endodontic cases.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Addressing common issues with loose, uncomfortable, or damaged dentures to restore proper fit and patient satisfaction.

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

At Bayside Family Dentistry, 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. Wan frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients presenting with their child's prolonged thumb-sucking habit and concerns about its impact on their teeth and jaw development can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of achieving their dream smile through a well-planned and executed smile makeover under Dr. Wan's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume feeling comfortable with close-up interactions and conversations without the former limitations or discomfort.
• A key objective when treating an urgent need to replace a recently lost front tooth before other teeth started to shift or their appearance was significantly affected at Dr. Wan's welcoming dental clinic is achieving their lost tooth being promptly replaced, preventing undesirable shifting of adjacent teeth and maintaining smile aesthetics. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like showing off a brighter, more youthful smile after cosmetic treatments.
• For patients where their child needing preventative dental sealants applied to their newly erupted permanent molars to protect against cavities is a primary concern, Dr. Wan focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in their infected tooth being successfully saved from extraction through root canal treatment. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully actively engaging in conversations without being preoccupied by a dental concern.
• Dr. Wan's comprehensive care for a desire to discuss options for a comprehensive 'smile makeover' to address multiple aesthetic concerns is meticulously designed to result in their smile looking its absolute best for an important upcoming wedding, graduation, or other special event. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as confidently going on dates or meeting new people without dental insecurities without dental worries.

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

Bayside Family Dentistry, where Dr. Wan practices, is situated in the Caulfeild, Eagle Harbour neighbourhood of West Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Horseshoe Bay Village and is accessible via TransLink (BlueBus - operated by West Vancouver). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Wan at Bayside Family Dentistry?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Wan and the team at Bayside Family Dentistry will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Wan will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

For most adults and children, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Wan will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, those managing active gum disease or at high risk for cavities may need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months), while patients with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is crucial to follow Dr. Wan's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

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. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Wan 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 services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Wan typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Wan 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, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), 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. Wan also educates patients on proper oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs.

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's often recommended, and sometimes required by the specialist or insurance plans, to have a referral from your general dentist like Dr. Wan. A referral ensures the specialist has the relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Wan identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Always check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider if you are unsure.

What is Bayside Family Dentistry's policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations?

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 24 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Wan. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee of $75. We appreciate your cooperation.

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 limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance, or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families). Always verify your coverage and check your insurance details before treatment.

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

No, a referral is not needed to schedule an appointment with a general dentist like Dr. Wan. You can contact Bayside Family Dentistry directly to book your visit.

Bayside Family Dentistry
2465 Bellevue Ave
West Vancouver, BC, V7V 1E1

Phone: (604) 330-9923

Dr. Laura Sau Yung Wan 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. Wan 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.