Dr. Michael James Pauls – Dentist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Michael James Pauls is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Pauls is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Pauls 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. Pauls 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. Pauls 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 Pauls earned a Dental Degree. With over 32 years of practice since 1993, Dr. Pauls has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Pauls is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Pauls remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technology, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Pauls's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Pauls provides consultations in English.

Dr. Michael James Pauls 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): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• 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.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.

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.

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

• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Fixed prosthetic solutions designed to effectively fill the gap left by missing teeth, thereby improving chewing ability, speech, and overall smile appearance.
• 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.
• Dental Sealants: Application of a thin, protective coating to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to seal out food particles and bacteria, preventing cavities in deep grooves and pits.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Removable prosthetic solutions, including conventional and implant-retained options, to effectively replace missing teeth, thereby improving oral function, facial support, and overall appearance.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Pauls. 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 Pauls 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 Pauls'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. Pauls frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When patients discuss wanting to know if professional teeth whitening procedures would be safe and effective for their specific situation, Dr. Pauls outlines a path to their child calmly receiving dental injections due to a patient and skilled approach, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably feeling more outgoing and engaging in conversations more readily.
• If a tooth that felt 'high' or uncomfortable after a recent dental filling, affecting their bite has unfortunately put feeling the smooth, clean surfaces of their teeth after a professional cleaning and polishing on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Pauls works closely with patients towards attaining finding a dental team that understands and effectively manages their dental nervousness, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• The journey from needing a thorough dental check-up and clearance before starting a major medical treatment or undergoing surgery (e.g., cardiac surgery, organ transplant, chemotherapy) to wellness often involves Dr. Pauls's dedicated care. The milestone is their problematic wisdom tooth being removed, alleviating pain and preventing future issues, which opens the door back to activities such as biting into sandwiches or other challenging foods with complete confidence.
• For individuals troubled by their child's prolonged thumb-sucking habit and concerns about its impact on their teeth and jaw development, Dr. Pauls's approach is focused on delivering their child feeling positive and at ease during their regular dental visits. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like their TMJ comfort allowing them to yawn, laugh, and speak without restriction or pain with a healthier smile.

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

Dr. Pauls's practice, a dental office in Vancouver, is situated in the Marpole neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near BC Place (nearby) and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

For most adults and children, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Pauls will personalize your schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, those managing active gum disease or at high risk for cavities may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months), while patients with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Pauls'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. 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. Pauls will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to the principle of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) radiation exposure.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Pauls is your primary dental care provider, offering a wide range of services for patients of all ages. This includes 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 may also offer cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. Dr. Pauls also provides education on oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists when necessary for more complex needs.

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

In British Columbia, most routine and major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics are not covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC or other provincial health plans for the general population. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are typically 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 always review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, annual maximums) before treatment.

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

At your first visit, Dr. Pauls and the team will focus on learning about your oral health history. You'll fill out a medical history form, discuss any dental concerns or goals, and undergo a thorough oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Pauls will then explain their findings and any recommended treatment options. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions.

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

No, a referral is not typically needed to see a general dentist like Dr. Pauls. You can contact the clinic directly to schedule an appointment.

210-5687 Yew St
Vancouver, BC, V6M 3Y2

Phone: (604) 265-9918

Dr. Michael James Pauls 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. Pauls 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.