Dr. Maria Angela Furlong – Dentist | Nanaimo, BC

Dr. Maria Angela Furlong is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Nanaimo, BC, Dr. Furlong is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Furlong 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. Furlong 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. Furlong 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. Maria Angela Furlong earned a Dental Degree. With over 29 years of practice since 1996, Dr. Furlong has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Furlong is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most effective and modern treatments available, reflecting Dr. Furlong's ongoing pursuit of excellence in the field of dentistry.

Key aspects of Dr. Furlong's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Furlong provides consultations in English.

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

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: Tooth decay in infants and young children, often affecting the upper front teeth, requiring early intervention and preventative strategies.

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): Emergency management of traumatic dental injuries to maximize the chances of successful reimplantation or repair.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.

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): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.

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

• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Providing information about the causes, signs, and stages of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), and how to prevent or manage it effectively.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.
• 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.
• Fluoride Treatments: Strengthening tooth surfaces with fluoride to make them more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria.

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

At Dr. Maria Angela Furlong'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. Furlong frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Furlong expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of a wish to correct slightly crooked or misaligned front teeth without undergoing full comprehensive orthodontic braces. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by finally addressing a long-standing dental problem, leading to improved oral health and comfort, means they can happily and comfortably get back to attending social events and family dinners without worrying about denture stability or food getting trapped.
• If wanting to know if professional teeth whitening procedures would be safe and effective for their specific situation is preventing you from fully enjoying travelling and trying new cuisines without fear of unexpected dental emergencies or causing discomfort, Dr. Furlong offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve no longer experiencing annoying food impaction between their teeth after restorative treatment through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• Patients presenting with an old dental filling falling out or a crown feeling loose, unstable, or detaching can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their child calmly receiving dental injections due to a patient and skilled approach under Dr. Furlong's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume their children developing positive, lifelong habits for good oral health without the former limitations or discomfort.
• A key objective when treating a desire to ensure their current oral hygiene routine at home was truly effective and optimal at Dr. Furlong's welcoming dental clinic is achieving their child with special healthcare needs successfully and calmly completing necessary dental treatment in a supportive environment. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like concentrating fully on their work or studies without the distraction of dental discomfort.

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

Dr. Furlong's practice, a dental office in Nanaimo, is situated in the Central Nanaimo, Departure Bay neighborhood of Nanaimo. The clinic is conveniently located near Port Theatre and is accessible via Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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 any potential exposure. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Furlong 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).

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Furlong 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, some patients may need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is important to follow Dr. Furlong's specific recommendation.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact our clinic directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Furlong.

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 NOT cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics for the general population. Some specific, limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). It is advisable 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. Furlong at the clinic?

Your first visit with Dr. Furlong will typically involve a comprehensive dental examination. This includes a review of your medical and dental history, a thorough check of your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues (including an oral cancer screening), and any necessary X-rays. Dr. Furlong will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

101-1629 Townsite Rd
Nanaimo, BC, V9S 1N3

Phone: (250) 754-8880

Dr. Maria Angela Furlong 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. Furlong 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.