About
Dr. Leah M. Charles is a Dentist (Facial Esthetic Injectables). Practicing at a dentist practice in Edmonton, AB, Dr. Charles is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Charles is licensed by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in AB. Dr. Charles 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. Charles also offers facial esthetic treatments using therapeutic neuromodulators (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin® for bruxism, TMJ pain, or cosmetic enhancement of the upper face such as frown lines and crow's feet) and/or dermal fillers to complement dental aesthetics, address facial harmony, and rejuvenate facial appearance, based on their specific certified training levels. Dr. Charles provides comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and management for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, bruxism (teeth clenching and grinding), and related orofacial pain conditions (such as myofascial pain). Treatment approaches are often conservative and non-surgical, potentially including occlusal splints (night guards), patient education, therapeutic exercises, and, if certified, the use of neuromodulators for muscle relaxation or pain relief.
Dr. Leah M. Charles earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Charles brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Charles offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with a Focus on TMJ, Bruxism & Orofacial Pain Management and General Dentistry with Facial Esthetic Services (Neuromodulators & Dermal Fillers). Dr. Charles 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.
Key aspects of Dr. Charles's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Charles 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. Charles provides consultations in English.
Dr. Leah M. Charles provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:
Tmj Disorders Bruxism
- Limited Jaw Opening (Trismus) or Difficulty Chewing Comfortably: Addressing problems with jaw mobility and the ability to perform essential functions like eating and speaking comfortably.
- Teeth Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism) - Day or Night: Seeking effective solutions to manage bruxism, protect teeth from further damage and wear, and alleviate associated muscle pain or headaches.
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.
Preventative Oral Health Topics
- Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.
- Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Charles. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.
- Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Customized full and partial dentures, carefully crafted to help patients regain confidence in their smile, ability to eat a varied diet, and speak clearly.
- Dental Bonding (Composite Resin Veneers/Restorations): A conservative and versatile cosmetic procedure to quickly and effectively enhance your smile's appearance using direct composite bonding techniques.
- TMJ/TMD Assessment, Diagnosis & Orofacial Pain Evaluation: Comprehensive clinical evaluation of jaw joint (TMJ) function, range of motion, muscle tenderness/trigger points, bite (occlusal) issues, and related symptoms such as clicking, popping, locking, headaches, ear pain, or limited jaw opening.
- Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Performing root canal therapy on infected or irreversibly inflamed tooth pulp (nerve), typically for anterior (front) teeth and premolars in uncomplicated cases, to save the natural tooth from extraction and relieve pain or infection.
- Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.
Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Charles. 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. Leah M. Charles adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).
At Dr. Leah M. Charles'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. Charles frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:
- Dr. Charles often consults with patients whose their partner mentioning that they snored very loudly or seemed to stop breathing momentarily during sleep (a possible sign of sleep apnea requiring a dental appliance referral) significantly limits their enjoyment of confidently taking on speaking roles or performances without concern for their dental appearance or speech clarity or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve a tooth that had become painfully sensitive to sweet foods now feeling completely normal and comfortable and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
- The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing their gums appearing red, swollen, or inflamed in certain areas of their mouth, involves working systematically towards a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism. Dr. Charles expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including their child being free of dental infections that could affect their overall health and school attendance.
- Patients presenting with their child being referred to a dental specialist for specific or complex treatment needs by their school or another health provider can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their tooth's extreme sensitivity to cold being resolved after identifying and treating the cause under Dr. Charles's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume their child being excited to show off their newly sealed or filled tooth to friends without the former limitations or discomfort.
- It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Charles to see patients who were troubled by an old silver amalgam filling looking dark, unsightly, or potentially failing successfully achieve their previously loose tooth feeling stable and secure after treatment. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like no longer avoiding certain social situations because of how they feel about their teeth.
Your personalized dental treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Charles, will be carefully designed to help you reach your specific functional, aesthetic, and overall oral wellness objectives. Dr. Charles is committed to empowering patients with the information and high-quality care needed to achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile for life.
Dr. Charles's practice, a dental office in Edmonton, is situated in the SE: Forest Heights, Holyrood, Strathearn neighborhood of Edmonton. The clinic is conveniently located near Mayfield Toyota Ice Palace and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.
- How often should I (or my child) visit Dr. Charles for a check-up and cleaning?
- For most adults and children, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Charles will personalize your schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, patients managing active gum disease or at high risk for cavities may need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months), while those with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between appointments. It's essential to follow Dr. Charles's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.
- Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- In Alberta, the provincial health plan (AHCIP) typically does <strong>not</strong> cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered under AHCIP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients, 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 verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before beginning treatment.
- What services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Charles typically provide?
- A General Dentist like Dr. Charles is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages. They offer a wide range of services, including 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 offer cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. General Dentists also provide education on oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. Charles may also offer specialized services in areas like TMJ, bruxism, and orofacial pain management, based on additional training and certifications.
- What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Charles at the clinic?
- At your first appointment, Dr. Charles and the team will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. You'll fill out a medical history form, discuss any dental concerns or goals, and undergo a thorough oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Charles will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. This is a great opportunity to ask questions.
- Do I need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Charles?
- No, a referral is typically not needed to see a general dentist. You can contact the clinic directly to schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles.
- 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. X-rays are only taken when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Charles will determine the frequency based on your individual needs and risk factors, following guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).
6128 90 AVE NW
Edmonton, AB, T6B 0P2
Phone: (780) 465-0505
Dr. Leah M. Charles is a licensed Dentist in AB, regulated by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) under the Health Professions Act (Alberta).
Registration can typically be verified through the website of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).
Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining overall health. Dr. Charles 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.