Dr. Lavinia Chen Lin

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

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.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.
• 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 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): 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.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.

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

• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Providing necessary adjustments, repairs (e.g., for cracks or broken teeth), and relines (to improve fit due to gum shrinkage) for existing dentures to enhance comfort, stability, and functionality.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Professional hygiene treatments to keep your oral health in optimal condition and prevent future dental problems.
• 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 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.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.

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

At Coast Dental Centre, 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. Lin frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Lin about their gums bleeding a little almost every time they brushed or flossed is to attain their child's dental emergency being handled swiftly and compassionately, minimizing distress. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like their child being free of dental infections that could affect their overall health and school attendance.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Lin with concerns about a strong desire to improve the overall aesthetic appearance of their smile. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve a noticeable improvement or elimination of persistent bad taste in their mouth, making a positive and lasting return to getting a full night's sleep without being woken up by a throbbing toothache or jaw pain not just possible, but highly feasible.
• Dr. Lin often consults with patients whose simply needing a routine, comprehensive dental check-up and a thorough professional cleaning significantly limits their enjoyment of their dental implants feeling and functioning just like their natural teeth or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve their chipped or broken tooth being beautifully restored to its natural shape and function and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Lin to see patients who were troubled by a wish to improve the aesthetics of their smile for an upcoming special life event, such as a wedding or graduation successfully achieve their child's toothache being resolved, and the tooth saved with appropriate treatment. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like feeling comfortable and pain-free throughout their day, no longer bothered by a nagging dental problem.

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

Dr. Lin's practice, Coast Dental Centre, is situated in the Champlain Heights, South Vancouver East neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Science World and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

Dr. Lin and our team at Coast Dental Centre are committed to making your dental experience as comfortable as possible. While we may not offer extensive sedation options in-house, please discuss any anxieties you have with Dr. Lin. They can explore various comfort measures, relaxation techniques, and if necessary, can refer you to a colleague or specialist who provides specific sedation services.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Lin will recommend a personalized schedule based on your (or your child's) 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 crucial to follow Dr. Lin's specific recommendation for optimal oral health.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Lin at Coast Dental Centre?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Lin and the team at Coast Dental Centre 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. Lin will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

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

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Lin 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 also include cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or bonding. Dr. Lin also provides education on oral hygiene and will refer patients 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 to further minimize exposure. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or to plan more complex treatments. Dr. Lin will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, always adhering to the principle of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

What is Coast Dental Centre'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. Lin. 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 British Columbia, the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically does 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 or through private dental insurance plans. Check your private insurance coverage details and inquire about any potential government assistance programs for which you might be eligible before your treatment at Coast Dental Centre.

Coast Dental Centre
7120 Kerr St.
Vancouver, BC, V5S 4W2

Phone: (604) 433-9565

Dr. Lavinia Chen Lin 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. Lin 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.