Dr. Marie-Claude Cholette – Dentist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Marie-Claude Cholette is a Pediatric Dentist. Practicing at a pediatric dentist practice in Calgary, AB, Dr. Cholette is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Cholette 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. As a certified specialist in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Cholette provides comprehensive and specialized preventative and therapeutic oral health care exclusively for infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special health care needs. This includes behavior guidance, sedation, and treatment of early childhood caries and developmental dental issues.

Dr. Marie-Claude Cholette earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Cholette brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Additionally, this specialist holds certifications/authorizations for: Modality 1.0 Nitrous Oxide Sedation; Modality 2.0 Nitrous Oxide Sedation; Modality 3.0 Oral Sedation; Modality 5.0 Oral Sedation with Nitrous Oxide Sedation. Dr. Cholette is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Cholette's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Cholette provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Marie-Claude Cholette addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Specialized considerations for dental treatment in pediatric patients with underlying illnesses.
• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Seeking a pediatric dental specialist or a general dentist with significant experience and resources in providing safe, effective, and compassionate dental care for children with unique and complex needs, potentially including the use of advanced behavior guidance techniques or sedation/anesthesia.

Dental Trauma Children

• Traumatic Injuries to Primary or Young Permanent Teeth in Children: Seeking expert urgent and long-term care for dental trauma in children to maximize the chances of saving injured teeth, managing pain and infection, and monitoring for potential complications to developing permanent teeth.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Dental situations where standard 2D X-rays (bitewings, panoramic) are insufficient and a 3D Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan is required for accurate diagnosis, assessment of anatomical complexities, or detailed planning of complex treatments like implants, orthodontics, or endodontics.

Early Childhood Caries

• Aggressive Tooth Decay (Cavities) in Infants & Toddlers (ECC): Managing extensive cavities in baby teeth, often requiring comprehensive restorative treatment (fillings, crowns, pulp therapy) and intensive preventative strategies (dietary counseling, fluoride, hygiene modification) to prevent further decay, pain, infection, and ensure proper development and function of both primary and permanent dentitions.

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

• Comprehensive Oral Health Care for Infants, Children & Adolescents: Tailored dental services to meet the unique needs of growing smiles, from first tooth to teenage years.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging: Utilizing Cone Beam CT technology for comprehensive three-dimensional views of your oral and maxillofacial structures when indicated.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Vigilant screening for oral cancer, a critical component of maintaining your overall health.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Cholette is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Marie-Claude Cholette's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Effectively addressing their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession with Dr. Cholette's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of achieving straighter teeth and an improved bite with discreet clear aligner therapy, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in their ability to savor the flavors of food being enhanced due to a healthy mouth and social interactions.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Cholette with concerns about one of their teeth starting to feel a bit loose or wobbly. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve their breath feeling consistently fresh and clean due to improved oral health, making a positive and lasting return to no longer needing to frequently visit the dentist for recurring problems due to better preventative care not just possible, but highly feasible.
• A key objective when treating needing a completely new set of dentures because their old ones were very worn out, ill-fitting, and no longer functional at Dr. Cholette's welcoming dental clinic is achieving experiencing a significant reduction or complete resolution of a dull, aching pain in their jaw joint area. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like feeling that their investment in cosmetic or restorative dentistry was truly worthwhile for their self-esteem.
• Dr. Cholette provides dedicated support for patients going through an old silver amalgam filling looking dark, unsightly, or potentially failing, always aiming for positive outcomes like their concerns about chronic bad breath being fully addressed through identification and treatment of the underlying dental or oral cause, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as feeling the smooth, clean surfaces of their teeth after a professional cleaning and polishing.

Your specialized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Cholette, will be meticulously designed to address your unique concerns and help you reach your specific objectives within their area of expertise. Dr. Cholette is committed to providing the highest standard of specialized care, tailored to your individual needs.

Dr. Cholette's practice, a dental office in Calgary, is situated in the NW: Bowness, Montgomery, Greenwood neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near Restaurants & Shops and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Cholette 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 health might have slightly longer intervals. It is crucial to follow Dr. Cholette's specific recommendation for optimal oral health.

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

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. Cholette.

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 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's essential to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check the details of your private dental insurance regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment.

I experience jaw pain, clicking, and headaches. Can Dr. Cholette help with TMJ/TMD issues?

Dr. Cholette can perform an initial assessment of your jaw pain and related symptoms. Depending on the findings and complexity, they may offer some conservative management advice or provide a referral to a dentist or specialist with advanced training in TMJ disorders if more specialized care is indicated.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Cholette at the clinic?

Your first visit with Dr. Cholette 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. Cholette 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.

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 taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Cholette 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).

Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see a dental specialist (e.g., Orthodontist, Periodontist)?

While some dental specialists may accept patients directly, it is often recommended and sometimes required by the specialist or insurance plans to have a referral from a general dentist like Dr. Cholette. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Cholette identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance if unsure.

How does Dr. Cholette as a Pediatric Dentist manage children with dental anxiety or special healthcare needs?

Dr. Cholette has specialized training in behavior guidance techniques (tell-show-do, positive reinforcement, distraction) and creates a child-friendly environment. She has experience with patients with various needs. Options like nitrous oxide may be available, or a referral for deeper sedation/general anesthesia may be made if appropriate, emphasizing a patient and gentle approach.

28 OKI DR NW
Calgary, AB, T3B 6A8

Phone: (403) 955-7836

Dr. Marie-Claude Cholette is a licensed Pediatric 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. Cholette 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.