Dr. Michelle K. Carlson – Dentist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Michelle K. Carlson is a Dentist (Facial Esthetic Injectables). Practicing at a dentist practice in Calgary, AB, Dr. Carlson is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Carlson is licensed by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in AB. Dr. Carlson 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. Carlson also offers facial esthetic treatments using therapeutic neuromodulators (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin® for bruxism, TMJ pain, or cosmetic enhancement of the upper face such as frown lines and crow's feet) and/or dermal fillers to complement dental aesthetics, address facial harmony, and rejuvenate facial appearance, based on their specific certified training levels. Dr. Carlson provides comprehensive general dental care with various certified levels of sedation (such as nitrous oxide/'laughing gas', oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on specific qualifications) to help anxious patients, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals undergoing extensive procedures feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable throughout their dental treatment. Dr. Carlson 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. Michelle K. Carlson earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Carlson brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Carlson offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Facial Esthetic Services (Neuromodulators & Dermal Fillers) and General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. Dr. Carlson is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Carlson's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Carlson provides consultations in English.

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

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.
• 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.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Seeking a pediatric dental specialist or a general dentist with significant experience and resources in providing safe, effective, and compassionate dental care for children with unique and complex needs, potentially including the use of advanced behavior guidance techniques or sedation/anesthesia.
• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Seeking a dental provider experienced in managing the oral health of children with complex medical histories.

Dental Anxiety Phobia

• History of Traumatic Dental Experiences: Seeking a compassionate, gentle, and communicative approach to dental care due to previous trauma.
• Fear or Anxiety about Dental Visits/Procedures: Seeking a dental environment and care approach that is understanding, patient, and supportive of dental fears.

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

• Therapeutic Neuromodulator Injections (e.g., Botox®) for TMJ/Bruxism & Myofascial Pain (If Certified): Offering minimally invasive injectable treatments aimed at relaxing overworked jaw muscles, thereby providing significant relief from chronic TMJ pain, tension headaches, and the detrimental effects of teeth grinding.
• Dental Crowns (Caps): Full-coverage restorations crafted from materials like porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or gold to encase and reinforce a compromised tooth for long-term durability.
• Nitrous Oxide Sedation ('Laughing Gas'): A safe, effective, and reversible inhalation sedation method to quickly reduce dental anxiety, raise pain threshold, and increase comfort, allowing patients to remain awake and responsive.
• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): Extraction of teeth that are not straightforward to remove due to their position, root morphology, or condition, performed within the scope of general dental practice and comfort level.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Dedicated time to review diagnostic findings, explain recommended procedures, and collaboratively create a dental care strategy that meets your needs and goals.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Carlson. 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. Michelle K. Carlson adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

At Dr. Michelle K. Carlson'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. Carlson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The journey from recognizing the need for a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) because it had been a significant time since their last professional hygiene visit to wellness often involves Dr. Carlson's dedicated care. The milestone is their tooth's extreme sensitivity to cold being resolved after identifying and treating the cause, which opens the door back to activities such as singing their favorite songs with gusto, whether in a choir or just for fun.
• Dr. Carlson's comprehensive care for a single tooth that had become noticeably darker in color than the adjacent teeth, possibly after trauma is meticulously designed to result in their previously loose tooth feeling stable and secure after treatment. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as no longer needing to take frequent pain medication for dental issues without dental worries.
• Effectively addressing experiencing diffuse facial pain or muscle tenderness that they suspected might be related to their jaw joint or bite with Dr. Carlson's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of successfully replacing their missing tooth with a strong, natural-looking dental implant, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in feeling more outgoing and engaging in conversations more readily and social interactions.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Carlson with concerns about needing a substantial amount of dental work done and feeling quite overwhelmed by the prospect. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve their teeth feeling more stable and their bite more aligned after corrective treatment, making a positive and lasting return to their smile reflecting their inner happiness and confidence not just possible, but highly feasible.

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

Dr. Carlson's practice, a dental office in Calgary, is situated in the NE: Falconridge, Coral Springs, Castleridge neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near Arts Commons and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

For most adults and children, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Carlson 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 may need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months) if managing active gum disease or at high risk for cavities, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between appointments. It is crucial to follow Dr. Carlson's specific recommendations for your optimal oral health.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

In Alberta, provincial health plans like the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) typically do <strong>not</strong> cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting <em>might</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or through 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 may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Carlson is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages. They offer a wide range of services, including 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 offer cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). General Dentists also educate patients on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. Carlson may offer specialized services in areas like Comprehensive General Dentistry based on additional training.

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

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. Carlson.

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 used to further minimize exposure. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Carlson 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 are dental implants, and how do I know if I'm a suitable candidate?

Dental implants are small, medical-grade titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They provide a strong foundation for fixed (crowns, bridges) or removable replacement teeth (dentures). Good candidates generally have healthy gums and adequate jawbone density to support the implant, and are in good general health. Dr. Carlson can perform a comprehensive assessment, which may include X-rays or 3D CBCT imaging, to evaluate your suitability. Dr. Carlson can discuss implants as an option and refer you to an implant specialist (like a Periodontist or Oral Surgeon) if appropriate.

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

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

What are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?

Early signs of gum disease (gingivitis) often include red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums (especially when brushing or flossing), and sometimes persistent bad breath. If it progresses to periodontitis, you might notice receding gums (teeth appearing longer), pus between teeth and gums, loose teeth, or changes in your bite. If you observe any of these symptoms, it's important to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Carlson promptly.

#826, 2220 - 68 Street N.E.
Calgary, AB, T1Y 6Y7

Phone: (403) 293-7818

Dr. Michelle K. Carlson is a licensed Dentist in AB, regulated by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) under the Health Professions Act (Alberta).

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining overall health. Dr. Carlson 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.