Dr. Matthew Lee Irvine – Dentist | Penticton, BC

Dr. Matthew Lee Irvine is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Penticton, BC, Dr. Irvine is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Irvine 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. Irvine 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. Irvine 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. Matthew Lee Irvine earned a Dental Degree. With over 26 years of practice since 1999, Dr. Irvine has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Irvine is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Irvine remains at the forefront of advancements in dental technology and techniques, consistently delivering the highest standard of care to their patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Irvine's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Irvine provides consultations in English.

Dr. Matthew Lee Irvine 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): Emergency management of traumatic dental injuries to maximize the chances of successful reimplantation or repair.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.

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): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.

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

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

• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Designing, fabricating, and fitting comfortable, functional, and natural-looking complete dentures (for patients missing all teeth in an arch) or partial dentures (for patients missing some teeth) to restore chewing ability, speech, and smile aesthetics. Options may include implant-supported dentures for enhanced stability.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Repairing cavities and minor tooth defects with durable, natural-looking composite resin fillings that blend seamlessly with your existing teeth.
• Dental Sealants: A simple and effective preventative measure to reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Treatment involving the removal of infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, thorough cleaning and shaping of the root canal system, and sealing it to prevent reinfection, often for less complex endodontic cases.

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

At Dr. Matthew Lee Irvine'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. Irvine frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• If an old dental bridge that felt loose, uncomfortable, or was showing signs of wear and tear is preventing you from fully enjoying their dental implants feeling and functioning just like their natural teeth or causing discomfort, Dr. Irvine offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve achieving straighter teeth and an improved bite with discreet clear aligner therapy through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• When their child having a pronounced fear of needles or injections at the dental office, requiring a very patient approach starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to no longer needing to cut food into tiny pieces or avoid certain textures due to dental problems, Dr. Irvine and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by finding a welcoming and skilled dental practice capable of caring for their entire family's needs and a return to comfort and confidence.
• Dr. Irvine understands that dealing with a single tooth that had become noticeably darker in color than the adjacent teeth, possibly after trauma can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving their breath feeling consistently fresh and clean due to improved oral health, helping patients comfortably get back to maintaining fresh breath, which improves their social and professional interactions and feeling their best.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of ongoing concerns about bad breath that they believed might be related to a hidden dental infection or persistent gum problem, Dr. Irvine offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their child stopping their thumb-sucking habit with supportive guidance, protecting their dental development. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of actively engaging in conversations without being preoccupied by a dental concern.

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

Dr. Irvine's practice, a dental office in Penticton, is situated in the Penticton Central, South End, Kaledon, Okanagan Falls, Naramata Bench (Rural South) neighborhood of Penticton. The clinic is conveniently located near Cleland Theatre and is accessible via South Okanagan-Similkameen Transit System (BC Transit). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Irvine 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. Irvine will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

What are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?

Early signs of gum disease (gingivitis) often include red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums (especially when brushing or flossing), and sometimes persistent bad breath. If it progresses to periodontitis, you might notice receding gums (teeth appearing longer), pus between teeth and gums, loose teeth, or changes in your bite. If you observe any of these symptoms, it's important to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Irvine promptly.

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Irvine will personalize your schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may require more frequent visits (e.g., 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. Irvine's specific recommendations.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Irvine is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages. They offer a wide range of services, including preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may offer cosmetic procedures such as whitening or bonding. Dr. Irvine also provides education on oral hygiene and will refer patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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

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 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). It's crucial to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

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

What cosmetic dentistry options might Dr. Irvine offer to improve the appearance of my smile?

Dr. Irvine focuses on comprehensive general dentistry for overall oral health. While many restorative procedures also have excellent aesthetic outcomes, if you have specific advanced cosmetic concerns, they can discuss basic aesthetic improvements available or provide a referral to a dentist specializing in cosmetic procedures or a prosthodontist if more advanced treatment is desired.

1185 Government St
Penticton, BC, V2A 4V3

Phone: (250) 493-4155

Dr. Matthew Lee Irvine 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. Irvine 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.