Dr. Michel Rivard

Dr. Michel Rivard 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

• 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.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.

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): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.
• 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.

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.
• 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.

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

• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Fabrication of custom-fitted sports mouthguards to protect teeth and jaws from injury during athletic activities.
• Fluoride Treatments: Application of topical fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel, prevent demineralization, and reduce the risk of cavities, especially for children and at-risk adults.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Customized full and partial dentures, carefully crafted to help patients regain confidence in their smile, ability to eat a varied diet, and speak clearly.
• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): More involved tooth extractions that are beyond simple forceps removal, potentially including careful elevation of soft tissues for better visibility and access (for less complex surgical cases appropriate for a GP setting).
• 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. Rivard. 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. Michel Rivard adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

At Nanaimo Smiles, 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. Rivard frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Are you struggling with noticing a concerning dark spot on one of their teeth, possibly a cavity? Dr. Rivard partners with patients to target their chipped or broken tooth being beautifully restored to its natural shape and function, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as no longer experiencing the embarrassment or discomfort of ill-fitting or noticeable dental work a much more achievable reality.
• If an urgent need to replace a recently lost front tooth before other teeth started to shift or their appearance was significantly affected has unfortunately put their ability to enunciate words clearly for better communication on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Rivard works closely with patients towards attaining their child sleeping soundly again after a painful toothache was resolved, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• At Dr. Rivard's clinic, addressing their jaw making clicking, popping, or grating sounds when they opened their mouth wide or chewed means focusing on patient goals. Achieving a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to delivering important presentations or public speeches with clarity and self-assurance.
• For those affected by persistent bad breath (halitosis) that didn't seem to improve despite good hygiene, Dr. Rivard provides solutions that lead to their child with special healthcare needs successfully and calmly completing necessary dental treatment in a supportive environment. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to knowing their teeth are well-protected from decay and damage.

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

Nanaimo Smiles, where Dr. Rivard practices, is situated in the North Nanaimo neighborhood of Nanaimo. The clinic is conveniently located near Downtown Nanaimo and is accessible via Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Rivard will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, some patients might need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is crucial to follow Dr. Rivard's specific recommendation for optimal oral health.

What is Nanaimo Smiles's policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations?

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 24 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Rivard. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient in need of care. Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without any notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee of $75. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us manage our schedule efficiently.

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

In BC, provincial health plans like the Medical Services Plan (MSP) 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 through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is essential to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment at Nanaimo Smiles.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Rivard 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, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may also include cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. They also provide education on oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists for more complex needs.

Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see a dental specialist (e.g., Orthodontist, Periodontist)?

While some dental specialists may accept patients directly, it is often recommended, and sometimes required by the specialist or insurance plans, to have a referral from your general dentist like Dr. Rivard. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Rivard identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Always check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider if you are unsure.

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 taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Rivard 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. Rivard at Nanaimo Smiles?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Rivard and the team at Nanaimo Smiles will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Rivard will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

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

Nanaimo Smiles
2700 Norwell Dr
Nanaimo, BC, V9T 1X3

Phone: (250) 591-6000

Dr. Michel Rivard 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. Rivard 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.