Dr. Matthew N. Lowry

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

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Addressing broken or cracked teeth to restore their form, function, and prevent infection.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Seeking a dental provider experienced in managing the oral health of children with complex medical histories.
• 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 Anxiety Phobia

• History of Traumatic Dental Experiences: Seeking a compassionate, gentle, and communicative approach to dental care due to previous trauma.
• Fear or Anxiety about Dental Visits/Procedures: Seeking a dental environment and care approach that is understanding, patient, and supportive of dental fears.

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

• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Low-radiation digital radiographs to detect cavities between teeth, assess bone levels, view tooth roots, and identify other hidden dental issues.
• Dental Sealants: Protective sealants for children and adolescents to safeguard vulnerable back teeth from decay.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Providing custom-made night guards (occlusal splints) to protect teeth from the effects of nocturnal bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching).
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Standard tooth removal procedures for non-impacted teeth that do not require complex surgical intervention.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Comprehensive advice on preventing gum inflammation and infection for lifelong oral health and overall well-being.

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

At Dr. Matthew N. Lowry'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. Lowry frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When feeling like food consistently and annoyingly got stuck between certain teeth after meals starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to no longer avoiding certain social situations because of how they feel about their teeth, Dr. Lowry and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by experiencing relief from facial pain after the dental contributions were identified and managed and a return to comfort and confidence.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Lowry to see patients who were troubled by a dental problem that was causing significant difficulty or pain when they tried to eat certain types of foods 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 feeling refreshed and confident with consistently fresh breath throughout the day.
• Dr. Lowry provides dedicated support for patients going through needing practical advice and guidance on how to properly care for their toddler's newly erupted first teeth, always aiming for positive outcomes like the bump or swelling on their gums being diagnosed and appropriately treated, resolving their worry, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as travelling and trying new cuisines without fear of unexpected dental emergencies.
• Dr. Lowry's comprehensive care for an old silver amalgam filling looking dark, unsightly, or potentially failing is meticulously designed to result in their gums appearing consistently healthy, pink, and firm, without any signs of puffiness or inflammation. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as participating actively in sports without fear of dental injury, especially with a custom mouthguard without dental worries.

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

Dr. Lowry's practice, a dental office in Lethbridge, is situated in the South Lethbridge West (University area) neighborhood of Lethbridge. The clinic is conveniently located near ENMAX Centre (Arena) and is accessible via Lethbridge Transit. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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 only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Lowry 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 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 through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is crucial to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment.

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

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

What payment options are available at the clinic for dental services?

The clinic accepts payment by cash, debit, and major credit cards (typically Visa and MasterCard). If you have dental insurance, please bring your policy information; the administrative team will assist with understanding your coverage and processing claims. For more extensive treatment plans, potential financing options can be discussed with the office manager.

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

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

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

No, a referral is typically not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. You are welcome to contact the clinic directly to arrange your visit with Dr. Lowry.

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

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive dental examination, including 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. Lowry will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Lowry 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). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

50-2810 Fairway St S
Lethbridge, AB, T1K 6T9

Phone: (403) 327-7227

Dr. Matthew N. Lowry 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. Lowry 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.