Dr. Peter Lam – Dentist | Tsuut’ina Nation, AB

Dr. Peter Lam is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at a dentist practice in Tsuut'ina Nation, AB, Dr. Lam is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Lam 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. Lam 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. Lam also 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. Furthermore, Dr. Lam 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. For patient convenience, direct billing to many major dental insurance plans may be available at the clinic.

Dr. Peter Lam earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Lam brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Lam 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. Lam is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Lam's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Lam provides consultations in English.

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

Tmj Disorders Bruxism

• Limited Jaw Opening (Trismus) or Difficulty Chewing Comfortably: Addressing problems with jaw mobility and the ability to perform essential functions like eating and speaking comfortably.
• Teeth Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism) - Day or Night: Seeking effective solutions to manage bruxism, protect teeth from further damage and wear, and alleviate associated muscle pain or headaches.

Aesthetic Facial Concerns

• Dynamic Facial Wrinkles (Frown Lines, Crow's Feet, Forehead Lines): Desire to soften and reduce the visibility of expression lines in the upper face for a more youthful, refreshed, and rested appearance.
• Facial Volume Loss or Desire for Contour Enhancement (Cheeks, Lips, Jawline, Temples): Addressing undesirable changes in facial shape, proportions, or the appearance of static lines and folds with appropriately chosen injectable filler treatments.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Children with significant systemic health conditions (e.g., organ transplants, cancer, uncontrolled diabetes) who require careful dental management and coordination with their medical specialists to prevent oral complications and ensure dental treatments are performed safely.
• 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.

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

• TMJ/TMD Assessment, Diagnosis & Orofacial Pain Evaluation: Comprehensive clinical evaluation of jaw joint (TMJ) function, range of motion, muscle tenderness/trigger points, bite (occlusal) issues, and related symptoms such as clicking, popping, locking, headaches, ear pain, or limited jaw opening.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Providing necessary adjustments, repairs (e.g., for cracks or broken teeth), and relines (to improve fit due to gum shrinkage) for existing dentures to enhance comfort, stability, and functionality.
• 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.
• Dental Sealants: Protective sealants for children and adolescents to safeguard vulnerable back teeth from decay.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.

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

At Dr. Peter Lam'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. Lam frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Many people seek Dr. Lam's professional help and expertise when dealing with an old silver amalgam filling looking dark, unsightly, or potentially failing. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently the dark spot on their tooth being treated, preventing a larger cavity from forming, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to knowing their teeth are well-protected from decay and damage.
• Dr. Lam often consults with patients whose feeling self-conscious about the stained or yellowish appearance of their teeth significantly limits their enjoyment of speaking clearly and confidently in professional meetings or social gatherings or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve their teeth feeling more stable and their bite more aligned after corrective treatment and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• If their child experiencing a dental emergency, such as a badly broken tooth or facial swelling is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Lam develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at a noticeable improvement or elimination of persistent bad taste in their mouth. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy their family members also benefiting from improved oral health knowledge shared from the patient's visits.
• Patients experiencing wanting to understand what was causing their teeth to appear worn down, shorter, or a bit translucent often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Lam's practice, a key objective is their child receiving necessary specialized dental care thanks to a timely referral, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in their child focusing better at school, free from the distraction of dental issues.

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

Dr. Lam's practice, a dental office in Tsuut'ina Nation, is situated in a central location within the Tsuut'ina Nation neighborhood of Tsuut'ina Nation. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

For most adults and children, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Lam 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 caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between appointments. It is essential to follow Dr. Lam'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 for the general population. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered by AHCIP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). It's crucial to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance policy (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before beginning treatment.

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

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

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 diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Lam 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. Lam at the clinic?

Your first visit with Dr. Lam 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. Lam 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.

109-11501 Buffalo Run Blvd, Buffalo Run Dental
Tsuut'ina Nation, AB, T3T 0E4

Phone: (403) 226-9627

Dr. Peter Lam 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. Lam 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.