Dr. Nai Keen Szeto – Dentist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Nai Keen Szeto is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Szeto is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Szeto 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. Szeto 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. Szeto 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. Nai Keen Szeto earned a Dental Degree. With over 39 years of practice since 1986, Dr. Szeto has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Szeto is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most current and effective treatments available. This commitment to professional development reflects Dr. Szeto's unwavering dedication to excellence in patient care.

Key aspects of Dr. Szeto's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Szeto is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Cantonese and Mandarin.

Dr. Nai Keen Szeto 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): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.

Dental Pain Emergency

• 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.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Persistent unpleasant breath odor often linked to oral hygiene issues, gum disease, dry mouth, or other dental conditions.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.

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

• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
• Dental Sealants: A simple and effective preventative measure to reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Proactive examinations as part of your check-up to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Professional hygiene treatments to keep your oral health in optimal condition and prevent future dental problems.

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

At Dr. Nai Keen Szeto'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. Szeto frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients frequently come to Dr. Szeto with concerns about wanting to learn the best and most effective way to clean around their existing dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve a tooth that had become painfully sensitive to sweet foods now feeling completely normal and comfortable, making a positive and lasting return to their smile reflecting their inner happiness and confidence not just possible, but highly feasible.
• Effectively addressing needing a custom-fitted mouthguard for playing sports to properly protect their teeth and jaw from injury with Dr. Szeto's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of their teeth feeling more stable and their bite more aligned after corrective treatment, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion and social interactions.
• Patients presenting with their gums feeling generally puffy, looking a bit darker red than usual, or exhibiting other signs of inflammation can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of an impacted tooth being successfully managed or removed, preventing future pain, infection, or damage to other teeth under Dr. Szeto's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume feeling that their smile truly reflects their personality and inner confidence. without the former limitations or discomfort.
• Dr. Szeto understands that dealing with their child experiencing a dental emergency, such as a badly broken tooth or facial swelling can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving their dentures no longer causing sore spots, allowing them to eat and speak with ease, helping patients comfortably get back to maintaining a youthful appearance complemented by a healthy and attractive smile and feeling their best.

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

Dr. Szeto's dental practice is conveniently located in the Victoria-Fraserview, Killarney West neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is situated near Hotel Vancouver and is easily 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.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Szeto 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, and dental 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. Szeto also educates patients on proper oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Szeto will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health 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) if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between visits. It's essential to follow Dr. Szeto's specific recommendations.

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

In British Columbia, provincial health plans like the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically do NOT cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered under MSP. 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 individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, or social assistance recipients). It is crucial to verify your eligibility for any potential public coverage and to check your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before treatment.

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 clinically necessary, such as for new patients, to detect decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Szeto will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

Typically, no referral is needed to schedule an appointment with a general dentist like Dr. Szeto. You can contact the clinic directly to arrange your visit.

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

Common signs of gum disease include gums that bleed easily while brushing or flossing, gums that appear red or puffy, or gums that feel sore. Persistent bad taste or bad breath can also be a sign. More advanced gum disease (periodontitis) may involve gums pulling away from teeth, noticeable tooth mobility, or discomfort when chewing. Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Szeto are crucial for early detection and treatment.

Does our clinic offer direct billing to dental insurance companies (assignment of benefits)?

While we do not offer direct billing to insurance companies at this time (meaning payment in full is due at the time of service), we will provide you with all the necessary standardized dental claim forms and detailed official receipts. You can then easily submit these to your dental insurance provider for prompt reimbursement according to your policy terms and coverage. Our administrative team is happy to assist you with understanding the forms if needed.

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

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive dental examination, including 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. Szeto will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed during this visit or scheduled for a subsequent appointment.

6201 Victoria Dr
Vancouver, BC, V5P 3X5

Phone: (672) 513-2879

Dr. Nai Keen Szeto 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. Szeto 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.