Dr. Mark Gregory Spurr – Dentist | North Vancouver, BC

Dr. Mark Gregory Spurr is a Dentist. Practicing at Howe Sound Dental Group in North Vancouver, BC, Dr. Spurr is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Spurr 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. Spurr 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. Spurr 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 Howe Sound Dental Group.

Dr. Mark Gregory Spurr earned a Dental Degree. With over 38 years of practice since 1987, Dr. Spurr has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Spurr is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available, reflecting Dr. Spurr's unwavering dedication to their professional growth and the well-being of their patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Spurr's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Spurr provides consultations in English.

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

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.
• 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. Spurr. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Providing guidance on how dietary choices impact oral health, including advice on reducing sugary food/drink intake and promoting tooth-friendly nutrition.
• Dental Crowns (Caps): Durable and aesthetic crowns designed to restore the form, function, and integrity of significantly damaged or endodontically treated teeth.
• 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.

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

At Howe Sound Dental Group, 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. Spurr frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For patients where a specific need to find a dental clinic that is particularly good and patient with nervous or phobic patients is a primary concern, Dr. Spurr focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in an impacted tooth being successfully managed or removed, preventing future pain, infection, or damage to other teeth. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully feeling that their investment in cosmetic or restorative dentistry was truly worthwhile for their self-esteem.
• For those affected by their child's prolonged thumb-sucking habit and concerns about its impact on their teeth and jaw development, Dr. Spurr provides solutions that lead to their child's dental emergency being handled swiftly and compassionately, minimizing distress. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to their child understanding the importance of regular dental check-ups for a lifetime of health.
• Through Dr. Spurr's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from feeling like their teeth were gradually shifting position or their bite was changing noticeably over time often find they can readily achieve a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like their overall facial aesthetics being enhanced by well-planned dental and/or facial esthetic treatments.
• A key objective when treating their child feeling particularly anxious or fearful about an upcoming dental filling or procedure at Dr. Spurr's welcoming dental clinic is achieving receiving clear dental clearance before a major medical procedure, ensuring their overall health is prioritized. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like their child showing pride in their healthy smile and good brushing habits.

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

Howe Sound Dental Group, where Dr. Spurr practices, is situated in a central location within the North Vancouver neighborhood of North Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Spurr at Howe Sound Dental Group?

Your first visit with Dr. Spurr 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. Spurr 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 are dental implants, and how do I know if I'm a suitable candidate?

Dental implants are small, medical-grade titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They provide a strong foundation for fixed (crowns, bridges) or removable replacement teeth (dentures). Good candidates generally have healthy gums and adequate jawbone density to support the implant, and are in good general health. Dr. Spurr can perform a comprehensive assessment, which may include X-rays or 3D CBCT imaging, to evaluate your suitability. Dr. Spurr can discuss implants as an option and refer you to an implant specialist (like a Periodontist or Oral Surgeon) if appropriate.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

In BC, provincial health plans (like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC) 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). Always verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

What payment options are available at Howe Sound Dental Group for dental services?

At Howe Sound Dental Group, we accept payment by cash, debit, and major credit cards (typically Visa and MasterCard). If you have dental insurance, please bring your policy information, and our administrative team will be happy to assist you with understanding your coverage and processing claims. For more extensive treatment plans, potential financing options can be discussed with our office manager.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Spurr will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months). Follow Dr. Spurr's specific recommendation.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Spurr provides primary dental care, 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). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

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

Typically, no referral is needed to see a general dentist. Contact Howe Sound Dental Group directly to schedule an appointment with Dr. Spurr.

Howe Sound Dental Group
2990 Mountain Hwy
North Vancouver, BC, V7J 2N9

Phone: (604) 770-3131

Dr. Mark Gregory Spurr 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. Spurr 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.