Dr. Marlon Clifford Peter – Dentist | Port Alberni, BC

Dr. Marlon Clifford Peter is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Port Alberni, BC, Dr. Peter is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Peter 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. Peter 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. Peter 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. Marlon Clifford Peter earned a Dental Degree. With over 22 years of practice since 2003, Dr. Peter has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Peter is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Peter remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Peter's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Peter is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Hindi and Urdu.

Dr. Marlon Clifford Peter 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

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.

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

• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Proactive examinations as part of your check-up to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Custom-crafted bridges providing a stable, functional, and natural-looking replacement for lost teeth, preventing shifting of remaining teeth.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Comprehensive dental imaging services, including panoramic and intraoral X-rays, to aid in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Dedicated time to review diagnostic findings, explain recommended procedures, and collaboratively create a dental care strategy that meets your needs and goals.

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

At Dr. Marlon Clifford Peter'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. Peter frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Peter to see patients who were troubled by an urgent need to replace a recently lost front tooth before other teeth started to shift or their appearance was significantly affected successfully achieve their recurrent canker sores becoming less frequent or less severe with management strategies. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like biting into sandwiches or other challenging foods with complete confidence.
• Patients presenting with needing a custom-fitted mouthguard for playing sports to properly protect their teeth and jaw from injury can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their smile looking its absolute best for an important upcoming wedding, graduation, or other special event under Dr. Peter's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume getting a full night's sleep without being woken up by a throbbing toothache or jaw pain without the former limitations or discomfort.
• For those affected by feeling like their jaw was often stiff, sore, or difficult to move freely, especially upon waking in the morning, Dr. Peter provides solutions that lead to the gap between their front teeth being attractively closed, boosting their confidence. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to easily flossing and brushing without encountering pain or bleeding from their gums.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed experiencing significant fear or deep-seated anxiety about upcoming dental visits with Dr. Peter's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their jaw feeling less stiff and more mobile after TMJ therapy or a custom oral appliance and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy confidently recommending their dentist, {preferred_name}, to friends and family based on their positive experiences once more.

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

Dr. Peter's practice, a dental office in Port Alberni, is situated in a central location within the Port Alberni neighborhood of Port Alberni. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Peter is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services. These include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges, and dentures), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may also include cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or bonding. Dr. Peter also educates patients on proper oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists when more complex care is needed.

What are the most effective ways to prevent cavities (tooth decay)?

To effectively prevent cavities, maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing thoroughly twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. It's also crucial to eat a balanced diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods/drinks, especially between meals. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings with Dr. Peter are essential for early detection and prevention. Dr. Peter may also recommend dental sealants or professional fluoride treatments for added protection, particularly for children.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Peter and the team at the clinic will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Peter will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered under MSP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers). Some government assistance programs may cover dental care for eligible groups, such as children from low-income families or seniors on specific benefits. It's crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Peter for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with 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 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. Peter 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 is our clinic's policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations?

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 24 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Peter. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee of $75. We appreciate your cooperation.

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

Generally, we recommend check-ups and cleanings every 6 months for most patients. However, Dr. Peter will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months), while others might have slightly longer intervals between appointments. Following Dr. Peter's specific recommendation is essential.

4590 Helen St
Port Alberni, BC, V9Y 6P5

Phone: (250) 724-1811

Dr. Marlon Clifford Peter 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. Peter 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.