Dr. Meggan J. Schiffner – Dentist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Meggan J. Schiffner is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at a dentist practice in Calgary, AB, Dr. Schiffner is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Schiffner 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. Dr. Schiffner 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. Schiffner also provides comprehensive general dental care with various certified levels of sedation (such as nitrous oxide/'laughing gas', oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on specific qualifications) to help anxious patients, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals undergoing extensive procedures feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable throughout their dental treatment. Dr. Schiffner 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. Meggan J. Schiffner earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Schiffner brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Schiffner offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. Dr. Schiffner is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Schiffner's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Schiffner provides consultations in English.

Dr. Meggan J. Schiffner 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

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

Gag Reflex Management

• Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Experiencing a hyperactive or severe gag reflex that significantly interferes with routine dental examinations, X-rays, impressions, or treatments.

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): Requiring specialized dental management and a tailored care approach for children and adolescents with underlying medical conditions (e.g., congenital heart disease, bleeding disorders, immunocompromise), physical disabilities (e.g., cerebral palsy), cognitive or developmental challenges (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome), or significant behavioral issues that make routine dental treatment difficult.

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

• Dental Bonding (Composite Resin Veneers/Restorations): Improving the aesthetics of front teeth with skillfully applied and polished resin material, often requiring minimal or no tooth preparation.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• Smile Makeovers (Comprehensive Cosmetic Treatment Planning): Comprehensive aesthetic assessment and collaborative planning of multiple cosmetic dental procedures (e.g., whitening, veneers, bonding, crowns, gum contouring) to achieve a desired, harmonious, and transformative smile outcome.
• Nitrous Oxide Sedation ('Laughing Gas'): Helping patients of most ages feel significantly calmer, more relaxed, and at ease during their dental treatment with the use of nitrous oxide sedation.
• 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.

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

At Dr. Meggan J. Schiffner'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. Schiffner frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The primary focus for patients seeking help for concerns about potential hereditary dental problems or conditions present in their family history at Dr. Schiffner's practice is consistently achieving their child overcoming dental anxiety and successfully completing needed dental treatment. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as their children developing positive, lifelong habits for good oral health.
• For patients where experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease is a primary concern, Dr. Schiffner focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully their smile being ready for any impromptu photo opportunity or social media post.
• When patients discuss their gums bleeding a little almost every time they brushed or flossed, Dr. Schiffner outlines a path to understanding the cause of their tooth wear and having a plan to prevent further damage, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably travelling and trying new cuisines without fear of unexpected dental emergencies.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Schiffner when they first notice their child feeling particularly anxious or fearful about an upcoming dental filling or procedure. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their smile looking noticeably brighter and whiter after professional whitening treatment, enabling them to once again enjoy their child being excited to show off their newly sealed or filled tooth to friends without hesitation.

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

Dr. Schiffner's practice, a dental office in Calgary, is situated in the SW: Aspen Woods, Springbank Hill, Christie Park neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near GMC Stadium and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Schiffner 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, dental sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may also offer cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening or bonding. They also educate patients on proper oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists when more complex needs arise.

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

For most adults and children, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Schiffner 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) if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between visits. It's crucial to follow Dr. Schiffner's specific recommendations for your optimal oral health.

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 always used to minimize any potential exposure. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or to plan more complex treatments. Dr. Schiffner will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

Your first visit with Dr. Schiffner 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. Schiffner will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed during this visit or scheduled for a subsequent appointment.

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. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered under AHCIP. 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 is essential to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

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

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

What should I do if I have a dental emergency outside of our clinic's regular office hours?

For life-threatening emergencies (severe bleeding, difficulty breathing due to swelling, significant facial trauma), go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911 immediately. For urgent but non-life-threatening issues (severe toothache, knocked-out tooth, dental abscess, broken tooth causing sharp pain), call our main office number at (403) 297-9600. Our voicemail may provide instructions for emergency contact or direct you to an emergency dental service in Calgary.

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

Yes, Dr. Schiffner understands that dental anxiety is common. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, our clinic offers nitrous oxide (laughing gas) sedation. Please discuss your anxiety with Dr. Schiffner during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

5982 Signal Hill Centre S.W.
Calgary, AB, T3H 3P8

Phone: (403) 297-9600

Dr. Meggan J. Schiffner 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. Schiffner 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.