Dr. Michael David Tiu – Dentist | Burnaby, BC

Dr. Michael David Tiu is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Burnaby, BC, Dr. Tiu is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Tiu 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. Tiu 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. Tiu 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. Michael David Tiu earned a Dental Degree. With over 33 years of practice since 1992, Dr. Tiu has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Tiu is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available, reflecting Dr. Tiu's dedication to professional excellence and staying at the forefront of dental advancements.

Key aspects of Dr. Tiu's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Tiu is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Filipino, Fukienese and Tagalog.

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

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): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Providing immediate care for teeth that have been knocked out (avulsed), dislodged, or fractured due to an accident or injury, aiming to save the tooth if possible.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.

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

• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Nutritional advice tailored to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent dental diseases.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Fabrication of custom-fitted sports mouthguards to protect teeth and jaws from injury during athletic activities.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.

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

At Dr. Michael David Tiu'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. Tiu frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When patients discuss their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession, Dr. Tiu outlines a path to their breath feeling consistently fresh and clean due to improved oral health, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably delivering important presentations or public speeches with clarity and self-assurance.
• Effectively addressing ongoing concerns about bad breath that they believed might be related to a hidden dental infection or persistent gum problem with Dr. Tiu's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of their previously sensitive exposed tooth roots being protected and desensitized, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in being able to eat in public restaurants without anxiety about their teeth or dentures and social interactions.
• For individuals troubled by an old dental filling falling out or a crown feeling loose, unstable, or detaching, Dr. Tiu's approach is focused on delivering achieving straighter teeth and an improved bite with discreet clear aligner therapy. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like enjoying a cold ice cream or a hot cup of coffee without wincing from tooth sensitivity with a healthier smile.
• Dr. Tiu's comprehensive care for a dental problem or discomfort that they had been avoiding or putting off addressing for far too long is meticulously designed to result in feeling confident in their ability to maintain excellent oral hygiene at home with improved techniques. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as no longer needing to cut food into tiny pieces or avoid certain textures due to dental problems without dental worries.

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

Dr. Tiu's practice, a dental office in Burnaby, is situated in the Metrotown West, South Slope neighborhood of Burnaby. The clinic is conveniently located near BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology) and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium Lines, Bus). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Tiu 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 include some cosmetic procedures (like teeth whitening or bonding). Dr. Tiu also provides valuable education on maintaining good oral hygiene and will refer patients to specialists for more complex dental 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 always used. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for cavities between teeth, assess bone health, or plan more complex treatments. Dr. Tiu 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).

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. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It's crucial to check your eligibility for any public coverage and review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, annual maximums) before treatment.

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

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

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. For urgent but non-life-threatening issues (severe toothache, knocked-out tooth, dental abscess with swelling, broken tooth causing pain), call our main office number at (604) 438-8131. Our voicemail may provide instructions for emergency contact or direct you to an emergency dental service.

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Tiu will personalize your schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors, and existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months for gum disease management), while others might have longer intervals. Follow Dr. Tiu's specific recommendations.

Does our clinic offer direct billing to dental insurance companies (assignment of benefits)?

While we do not offer direct billing to insurance companies at this time (meaning payment in full is due at the time of service), we will provide you with all the necessary standardized dental claim forms and detailed official receipts. You can then easily submit these to your dental insurance provider for prompt reimbursement according to your policy terms and coverage. Our administrative team is happy to assist you with understanding the forms if needed.

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

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive dental examination: review of your medical and dental history, thorough check of your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues (including oral cancer screening), and necessary X-rays. Dr. Tiu will discuss findings, address concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed or scheduled.

102-6888 Royal Oak Ave
Burnaby, BC, V5J 4J2

Phone: (604) 438-8131

Dr. Michael David Tiu 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. Tiu 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.