Dr. Lucas S. Stepanko is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at a dentist practice in Grande Prairie, AB, Dr. Stepanko is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Stepanko 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. Stepanko 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. Stepanko also provides comprehensive general dental care with various certified levels of sedation (such as nitrous oxide/'laughing gas', oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on specific qualifications) to help anxious patients, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals undergoing extensive procedures feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable throughout their dental treatment. Further, Dr. Stepanko 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. Stepanko 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. Lucas S. Stepanko earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Stepanko brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Stepanko offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Facial Esthetic Services (Neuromodulators & Dermal Fillers) and General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. Dr. Stepanko is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.
Key aspects of Dr. Stepanko's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Stepanko provides consultations in English.
Dr. Lucas S. Stepanko provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:
Gag Reflex Management
- Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Seeking strategies, desensitization techniques, or appropriate sedation options to manage a strong gag reflex during necessary dental care.
Dental Pain Emergency
- Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.
- Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.
- 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: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.
- Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.
Gum Disease Initial
- Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.
- 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.
This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Stepanko. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.
- Porcelain Veneers & Lumineers: Application of ultra-thin, custom-made porcelain shells (veneers or minimal-prep Lumineers) bonded to the front surface of teeth to dramatically improve their shape, size, length, color, or to correct minor misalignments, chips, and gaps.
- Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Gentle and efficient extraction of problematic teeth when deemed necessary to maintain overall oral health, resolve infection, or alleviate persistent pain.
- Fluoride Treatments: Application of topical fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel, prevent demineralization, and reduce the risk of cavities, especially for children and at-risk adults.
- Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
- TMJ/TMD Assessment, Diagnosis & Orofacial Pain Evaluation: Identifying the underlying causes and contributing factors related to your jaw pain, facial muscle soreness, and related dysfunctions to guide effective treatment.
Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Stepanko. 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. Lucas S. Stepanko adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).
At Dr. Lucas S. Stepanko'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. Stepanko frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:
- For individuals troubled by a desire to ensure their current oral hygiene routine at home was truly effective and optimal, Dr. Stepanko's approach is focused on delivering achieving the beautiful, confident smile they had always desired through cosmetic dentistry. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like feeling the smooth, clean surfaces of their teeth after a professional cleaning and polishing with a healthier smile.
- Many people seek Dr. Stepanko's professional help and expertise when dealing with a canker sore (aphthous ulcer) that was unusually large, very painful, or taking a long time to heal. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently gaining peace of mind about their family's hereditary dental risks through informed discussion, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to their dental implants feeling and functioning just like their natural teeth.
- Numerous patients have successfully addressed a tooth that suddenly felt rough, had a sharp or jagged edge, or was causing irritation with Dr. Stepanko's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their teeth feeling more stable and their bite more aligned after corrective treatment and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy enjoying a corn on the cob or biting into a crisp apple without hesitation once more.
- A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Stepanko about experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease is to attain their child's newly erupted molars being protected from decay with dental sealants. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like attending social events and family dinners without worrying about denture stability or food getting trapped.
Your personalized dental treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Stepanko, will be carefully designed to help you reach your specific functional, aesthetic, and overall oral wellness objectives. Dr. Stepanko is committed to empowering patients with the information and high-quality care needed to achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile for life.
Dr. Stepanko's practice, a dental office in Grande Prairie, is situated in the Central Grande Prairie, Mountview, Swanavon neighborhood of Grande Prairie. The clinic is conveniently located near Major North-South Corridor and is accessible via Grande Prairie Transit. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.
- How often should I (or my child) visit Dr. Stepanko for a check-up and cleaning?
- For most adults and children, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Stepanko will personalize your schedule based on individual needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, those managing active gum disease or at high caries risk may need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months), while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Stepanko's specific recommendations.
- Do I need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Stepanko?
- No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Stepanko for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with the clinic.
- Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- In Alberta, provincial health plans like the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) typically do NOT cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics for the general population. 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 plans (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is crucial to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment.
- What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Stepanko at the clinic?
- Your first visit will involve 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. Stepanko will then explain their assessment and recommend any necessary treatments. It's an excellent opportunity to ask questions.
- 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 necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Stepanko will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, following guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).
10309 - 98 Street
Grande Prairie, AB, T8V 2E7
Phone: (780) 532-2212
Dr. Lucas S. Stepanko 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. Stepanko 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.