Dr. Michael T. Nicholls – Dentist | Abbotsford, BC

Dr. Michael T. Nicholls is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Abbotsford, BC, Dr. Nicholls is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Nicholls 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. Nicholls 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. Nicholls 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 T. Nicholls earned a Dental Degree. With over 40 years of practice since 1985, Dr. Nicholls has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Nicholls is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Nicholls remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technology, consistently delivering the highest standard of care to their patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Nicholls's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Nicholls provides consultations in English.

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

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Addressing broken or cracked teeth to restore their form, function, and prevent infection.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• 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.

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

• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Saving natural teeth from extraction by treating the inner pulp tissue, commonly for straightforward root canal procedures on teeth with predictable anatomy.
• Fluoride Treatments: Strengthening tooth surfaces with fluoride to make them more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.
• 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.

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

At Dr. Michael T. Nicholls'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. Nicholls frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Managing a desire for a more permanent, comfortable, and functional solution than their current removable partial denture effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Nicholls and the dental team. The clear aim is always understanding the cause of their tooth wear and having a plan to prevent further damage, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying feeling relief from chronic headaches that were linked to their TMJ or bruxism and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• At Dr. Nicholls's clinic, addressing a tooth that suddenly became extremely and uncharacteristically sensitive to cold water or air, causing sharp pain means focusing on patient goals. Achieving their child's newly erupted molars being protected from decay with dental sealants helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to no longer experiencing the embarrassment or discomfort of ill-fitting or noticeable dental work.
• Many people seek Dr. Nicholls's professional help and expertise when dealing with their child needing preventative dental sealants applied to their newly erupted permanent molars to protect against cavities. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently no longer experiencing annoying food impaction between their teeth after restorative treatment, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to feeling great about their smile in photographs and videos.
• When their jaw making clicking, popping, or grating sounds when they opened their mouth wide or chewed begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Nicholls helps patients strive for achieving their desired level of teeth whiteness safely and effectively under professional supervision. This makes participating in activities such as their smile reflecting their inner happiness and confidence a pleasant and possible experience again.

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

Dr. Nicholls's practice, a dental office in Abbotsford, is situated in the West Abbotsford, Mount Lehman neighborhood of Abbotsford. The clinic is conveniently located near the US Border Crossing (Sumas) and is accessible via the Central Fraser Valley Transit System (BC Transit). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact our clinic directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Nicholls.

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

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

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

Dental X-rays are very safe, especially modern digital X-rays that use minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used to further minimize exposure. X-rays are only taken when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to detect cavities, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Nicholls will determine the appropriate frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Nicholls provides primary dental care for patients of 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, and initial management of gum disease. They may also offer cosmetic procedures such as whitening or bonding. General dentists educate patients on oral hygiene and refer to specialists when more complex care is needed.

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

At your first visit, Dr. Nicholls and the team will get to know you and your oral health history. You'll fill out a medical history form, discuss your dental concerns and goals, and undergo a thorough oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Nicholls will then explain their findings and recommend any necessary treatments. It's a great opportunity to ask questions.

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

Dr. Nicholls 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.

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Nicholls will personalize this recommendation based on your individual 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), while others might have longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Nicholls's specific advice.

140-2881 Garden St
Abbotsford, BC, V2T 4X1

Phone: (604) 852-5067

Dr. Michael T. Nicholls 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. Nicholls 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.