Dr. Michelle Thal – Dentist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Michelle Thal is a Pediatric Dentist. Practicing at a pediatric dentist practice in Calgary, AB, Dr. Thal is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Thal 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. As a certified specialist in Pediatric Dentistry, providing comprehensive and specialized preventative and therapeutic oral health care exclusively for infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special health care needs. This includes behavior guidance, sedation, and treatment of early childhood caries and developmental dental issues. Dr. Thal 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 Thal earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Thal brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Additionally, this specialist holds certifications/authorizations for: Modality 1.0 Nitrous Oxide Sedation; Modality 2.0 Nitrous Oxide Sedation. Dr. Thal is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Thal's dental practice philosophy include: 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. Thal provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Michelle Thal addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Customized dental approaches to accommodate children with diverse health backgrounds, sensory sensitivities, and varying levels of cooperation, ensuring they receive optimal oral healthcare in a supportive and appropriately adapted setting.
• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Specialized considerations for dental treatment in pediatric patients with underlying illnesses.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Complex dental cases that significantly benefit from the superior diagnostic information and precise measurements provided by CBCT scans for optimal treatment outcomes.

Dental Trauma Children

• Traumatic Injuries to Primary or Young Permanent Teeth in Children: Specialized pediatric management of traumatic dental injuries, including splinting, pulp therapy, and aesthetic repairs, tailored to the child's age and dental development.

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

• Comprehensive Oral Health Care for Infants, Children & Adolescents: Tailored dental services to meet the unique needs of growing smiles, from first tooth to teenage years.
• 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.
• Management of Early Childhood Caries (ECC) & Cavities in Children: Addressing tooth decay in infants and toddlers with a focus on minimally invasive techniques and long-term prevention.
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging: Access to or provision of 3D CBCT scans for detailed imaging of teeth, jawbone, sinuses, and TMJ, essential for complex treatment planning.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Thal is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Michelle Thal's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Thal expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of a piece of an old, large amalgam (silver) filling breaking off, leaving a tooth vulnerable. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by finding a welcoming and skilled dental practice capable of caring for their entire family's needs, means they can happily and comfortably get back to confidently taking on speaking roles or performances without concern for their dental appearance or speech clarity.
• Patients presenting with a specific tooth that had become very sensitive to sweet foods or drinks, which was a new symptom for them can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their smile looking its absolute best for an important upcoming wedding, graduation, or other special event under Dr. Thal's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume feeling more outgoing and engaging in conversations more readily without the former limitations or discomfort.
• If their existing dentures not fitting as comfortably or securely as they used to is preventing you from fully enjoying knowing their teeth are well-protected from decay and damage or causing discomfort, Dr. Thal offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve their tooth's extreme sensitivity to cold being resolved after identifying and treating the cause through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• A key objective when treating wanting to learn the best and most effective way to clean around their existing dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances at Dr. Thal's welcoming dental clinic is achieving gaining clarity about their child's future orthodontic needs and the optimal timing for any potential treatment. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like no longer needing to cut food into tiny pieces or avoid certain textures due to dental problems.

Your specialized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Thal, will be meticulously designed to address your unique concerns and help you reach your specific objectives within their area of expertise. Dr. Thal is committed to providing the highest standard of specialized care, tailored to your individual needs.

Dr. Thal's practice, a dental office in Calgary, is situated in the SW: Mission, Erlton, Rideau Park neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near WinSport Canada Olympic Park (Ski jumps, Bobsleigh) and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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 a general dentist like Dr. Thal. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Thal identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. If unsure, check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider.

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

In Alberta, provincial health plans like AHCIP 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). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Thal for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with the clinic.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Thal 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. Thal 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. Thal for a check-up and cleaning?

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Thal will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months). Follow Dr. Thal's specific recommendation.

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. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Thal 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).

210-4915 ELBOW DR SW
Calgary, AB, T2S 2L4

Phone: (403) 474-5600

Dr. Michelle Thal is a licensed Pediatric 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. Thal 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.