Dr. Michael James Finn – Dentist | Campbell River, BC

Dr. Michael James Finn is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Campbell River, BC, Dr. Finn is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Finn 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. Finn 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. Finn 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 James Finn earned a Dental Degree. With over 31 years of practice since 1994, Dr. Finn has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Finn is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Finn remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Finn's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Finn provides consultations in English.

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

Tooth Decay Cavities

• 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.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.

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.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Finn. 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.
• Fluoride Treatments: Professional fluoride therapy to help protect your teeth against decay and enhance remineralization.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Vigilant screening for oral cancer, a critical component of maintaining your overall health.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.
• 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.

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

At Dr. Michael James Finn'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. Finn frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When patients discuss a piece of an old, large amalgam (silver) filling breaking off, leaving a tooth vulnerable, Dr. Finn outlines a path to their sensitive teeth becoming much less reactive to hot and cold, making eating enjoyable again, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably no longer avoiding certain social situations because of how they feel about their teeth.
• When a specific desire to ensure their gums remained healthy and stable as they got older, preventing future problems 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. Finn and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by receiving clear dental clearance before a major medical procedure, ensuring their overall health is prioritized and a return to comfort and confidence.
• Patients presenting with a tooth that suddenly felt rough, had a sharp or jagged edge, or was causing irritation can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their partner reporting less snoring or cessation of breathing pauses during sleep after starting treatment with a dental sleep apnea appliance (facilitated by their dentist) under Dr. Finn's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume feeling that their dental health fully supports their active and engaged lifestyle without the former limitations or discomfort.
• If wondering if their child might need braces or orthodontic assessment for crooked teeth is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Finn develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at feeling significantly more relaxed and calm during dental visits due to effective anxiety management strategies or sedation. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy no longer experiencing the embarrassment or discomfort of ill-fitting or noticeable dental work.

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

Dr. Finn's dental practice is conveniently located in the Downtown Campbell River, North Campbell River neighborhood of Campbell River. The clinic is situated near North Island College Campbell River Campus and is easily accessible via the Campbell River Transit System (BC Transit). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

In British Columbia, provincial health plans such as the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically do <strong>not</strong> cover routine or major dental procedures provided in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting <em>may</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or via government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before treatment.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Finn 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. Finn will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if any care is needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Finn will personalize your schedule based on your individual oral health 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), while others may have longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Finn's specific recommendations.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Finn provides primary dental care for all ages. Services typically include 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 potentially cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also offer oral hygiene education and refer patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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

No, a referral is usually not needed to see a general dentist. You can contact the clinic directly to schedule an appointment with Dr. Finn.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Modern digital dental X-rays are very safe, using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are only taken when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan treatments). Dr. Finn determines the frequency based on your individual needs and risk factors, following ALARA principles (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

150 Dogwood St
Campbell River, BC, V9W 2X8

Phone: (250) 287-4010

Dr. Michael James Finn 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. Finn 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.