Dr. Melanie F. Kavaner – Dentist | Whitecourt, AB

Dr. Melanie F. Kavaner is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at a dentist practice in Whitecourt, AB, Dr. Kavaner is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Kavaner 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. Kavaner 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. Kavaner 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. For patient convenience, direct billing to many major dental insurance plans may be available at the clinic.

Dr. Melanie F. Kavaner earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Kavaner brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Kavaner 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. Kavaner is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Kavaner's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; 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. Kavaner provides consultations in English.

Dr. Melanie F. Kavaner 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

• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.
• 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.

Extensive Dental Treatment Needs

• Requiring Multiple or Lengthy Dental Procedures: Facing comprehensive dental work that could be better managed with the help of sedation to reduce stress, manage time effectively, and allow more treatment to be completed in fewer visits.

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Persistent unpleasant breath odor often linked to oral hygiene issues, gum disease, dry mouth, or other dental conditions.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.

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

• Porcelain Veneers & Lumineers: Artistic cosmetic restorations designed to conceal a variety of dental imperfections like chips, gaps, severe stains, or misshapen teeth, creating a harmonious smile.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Utilizing advanced digital X-ray technology (e.g., bitewings, periapicals, panoramic X-rays) for safe and precise diagnosis of dental conditions.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Standard tooth removal procedures for non-impacted teeth that do not require complex surgical intervention.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Ensuring you fully understand your dental care plan and have all your questions answered before proceeding with any treatment, fostering informed consent.

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

At Dr. Melanie F. Kavaner'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. Kavaner frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Understanding the frustration concerns about grinding their teeth so forcefully or frequently that their jaw muscles ached or they experienced morning headaches can cause, Dr. Kavaner tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve feeling confident that their gum health is being actively maintained, preventing future problems, allowing for renewed participation in activities like waking up feeling refreshed, without jaw soreness or tension from nighttime grinding.
• If wanting to understand what was causing their teeth to appear worn down, shorter, or a bit translucent is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Kavaner develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at transitioning from a removable partial denture to a more permanent and comfortable tooth replacement option. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy no longer having to 'guard' a sensitive tooth when eating or drinking.
• 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 maintaining fresh breath, which improves their social and professional interactions, Dr. Kavaner and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by feeling well-equipped with advice on how to care for their toddler's developing teeth and a return to comfort and confidence.
• With Dr. Kavaner's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing feeling like their jaw was often stiff, sore, or difficult to move freely, especially upon waking in the morning is focused on achieving the inflammation around their dental implant being successfully treated, ensuring its longevity. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to their ability to savor the flavors of food being enhanced due to a healthy mouth without dental concerns.

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

Dr. Kavaner's practice, a dental office in Whitecourt, is situated in a central location within Whitecourt's Whitecourt neighborhood. 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. Kavaner typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Kavaner 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. Dr. Kavaner also educates patients on proper oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists for more complex needs.

I experience jaw pain, clicking, and headaches. Can Dr. Kavaner help with TMJ/TMD issues?

Dr. Kavaner can perform an initial assessment of your jaw pain and related symptoms. Depending on the findings and complexity, they may offer some conservative management advice or provide a referral to a dentist or specialist with advanced training in TMJ disorders if more specialized care is indicated.

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 provided by employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). It's crucial to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment.

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

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

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

Yes, Dr. Kavaner 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. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Kavaner during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

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 (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Kavaner 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 should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Kavaner at the clinic?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Kavaner and the team will get to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, discuss any dental issues or goals, followed by a detailed examination and possibly digital X-rays. Dr. Kavaner will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

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

4802 51St
Whitecourt, AB, T7S 1R9

Phone: (587) 900-6618

Dr. Melanie F. Kavaner 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. Kavaner 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.