Dr. Marie-Catherine French – Dentist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Marie-Catherine French is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at a dentist practice in Calgary, AB, Dr. French is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. French 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. French 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. French 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. French 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. French 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. Marie-Catherine French earned a Dental Degree. Dr. French brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. French 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. French is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. French remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatment options available.

Key aspects of Dr. French's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. French provides consultations in English.

Dr. Marie-Catherine French 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

• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.

Tmj Disorders Bruxism

• Limited Jaw Opening (Trismus) or Difficulty Chewing Comfortably: Functional limitations of the jaw movement and masticatory system that require careful assessment and appropriate treatment.
• Jaw Pain, Clicking, Popping, or Locking (TMJ Symptoms): Symptoms highly suggestive of a temporomandibular disorder (TMD) requiring thorough diagnosis and a tailored management plan.
• Teeth Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism) - Day or Night: Awareness of, or reported symptoms related to, habitual or unconscious teeth grinding (attrition facets, worn enamel) or clenching (jaw soreness, muscle hypertrophy), occurring during the day or, more commonly, at night during sleep.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• Gum Contouring / Gingival Reshaping (Cosmetic Periodontal Plastic Surgery): Cosmetic gum procedures, sometimes using dental lasers or traditional surgical techniques, to precisely reshape an uneven or excessive gum line (gummy smile) or to correct minor gum recession for improved smile aesthetics and tooth proportions.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Essential maintenance services to extend the life and performance of your dentures, ensuring they continue to serve you well and comfortably.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. French. 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. Marie-Catherine French adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

At Dr. Marie-Catherine French'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. French frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For those affected by their dentures frequently rubbing, causing persistent sore spots, or making it difficult to eat comfortably, Dr. French provides solutions that lead to a suspicious white or red patch in their mouth being diagnosed early, leading to effective management. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to their child focusing better at school, free from the distraction of dental issues.
• A key objective when treating experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease at Dr. French's welcoming dental clinic is achieving the dark spot on their tooth being treated, preventing a larger cavity from forming. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like feeling more outgoing and engaging in conversations more readily.
• Overcoming or effectively managing a specific tooth that had become very sensitive to sweet foods or drinks, which was a new symptom for them is a common journey for patients under Dr. French's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling their child having fewer cavities due to improved dietary habits and hygiene practices taught at the clinic, so that daily routines and pleasures like their smile being a positive asset in their personal and professional life become straightforward again.
• For patients where experiencing a persistently dry mouth (xerostomia) feeling, making it uncomfortable to speak or swallow is a primary concern, Dr. French focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in their child calmly receiving dental injections due to a patient and skilled approach. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully feeling the smooth, clean surfaces of their teeth after a professional cleaning and polishing.

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

Dr. French's practice, a dental office in Calgary, is situated in the NE: Tuxedo Park, Highland Park, Greenview neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near Connects North/South and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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 taken only when diagnostically necessary, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. French 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 should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. French at the clinic?

Your first visit with Dr. French 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. French will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if any care is needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. French is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services including: preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding if offered). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. French may offer specialized services in areas like Comprehensive General Dentistry based on additional training.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

In AB, provincial health plans (like 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 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 through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

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

Yes, Dr. French understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, our clinic offers various sedation options, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. French during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

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

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

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. French will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions. Some may need visits every 3-4 months, while others might have slightly longer intervals. Follow Dr. French's specific recommendation.

410 Memorial Drive
Calgary, AB, T2E 4Y7

Phone: (403) 261-8855

Dr. Marie-Catherine French 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. French 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.