Dr. Raylien Chao

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

Childhood Dental Conditions

• Comprehensive Dental Needs of Infants, Children, and Adolescents: Seeking a pediatric dental specialist for comprehensive preventative (cleanings, fluoride, sealants), restorative (fillings, crowns for primary teeth), and emergency dental care for young patients.

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): 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.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Dental situations where standard 2D X-rays (bitewings, panoramic) are insufficient and a 3D Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan is required for accurate diagnosis, assessment of anatomical complexities, or detailed planning of complex treatments like implants, orthodontics, or endodontics.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Chao. 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: Providing specialized, age-appropriate dental care from infancy through adolescence, including examinations, cleanings, fluoride, sealants, and fillings.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Comprehensive advice on preventing gum inflammation and infection for lifelong oral health and overall well-being.
• Understanding Your Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Low-radiation digital radiographs to detect cavities between teeth, assess bone levels, view tooth roots, and identify other hidden dental issues.

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

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

• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Chao when they first notice a specific desire to ensure their gums remained healthy and stable as they got older, preventing future problems. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their child having fewer cavities due to improved dietary habits and hygiene practices taught at the clinic, enabling them to once again enjoy being able to eat in public restaurants without anxiety about their teeth or dentures without hesitation.
• Overcoming or effectively managing persistent bad breath (halitosis) that didn't seem to improve despite good hygiene is a common journey for patients under Dr. Chao's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling understanding the cause of their tooth wear and having a plan to prevent further damage, so that daily routines and pleasures like waking up feeling refreshed, without jaw soreness or tension from nighttime grinding become straightforward again.
• Are you struggling with a need for a professional dental opinion on a growth, unusual spot, or texture change in their mouth that they discovered? Dr. Chao partners with patients to target a single discolored tooth being aesthetically restored to match the rest of their smile, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as participating actively in sports without fear of dental injury, especially with a custom mouthguard a much more achievable reality.
• Through Dr. Chao's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from concerns about potential hereditary dental problems or conditions present in their family history often find they can readily achieve feeling confident in their ability to maintain excellent oral hygiene at home with improved techniques and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like their child looking forward to dental visits rather than fearing them.

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

Kiddo Smile Pediatric Dentistry, where Dr. Chao practices, is situated in the Dunbar-Southlands neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Future Subway Extension and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). 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. Chao. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Chao 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.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Chao 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 visits every 3-4 months, while others might have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Chao's specific recommendations.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Kiddo Smile Pediatric Dentistry directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Chao.

How does Dr. Chao as a Pediatric Dentist manage children with dental anxiety or special healthcare needs?

Dr. Chao has specialized training in behavior guidance techniques, such as tell-show-do and positive reinforcement, and creates a child-friendly environment. They have experience with patients with various needs. Depending on the situation, options like nitrous oxide or referral for deeper sedation/general anesthesia may be considered. Dr. Chao prioritizes a patient and gentle approach.

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, such as for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Chao will determine the frequency based on your individual needs, adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) guidelines.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Chao at Kiddo Smile Pediatric Dentistry?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Chao and the team will get to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, discuss any dental issues or goals, and undergo a detailed examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Chao will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance, or government assistance programs for eligible groups. Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

Kiddo Smile Pediatric Dentistry
3050 West 41st Ave
Vancouver, BC, V6N 3C9

Phone: (604) 332-1100

Dr. Raylien Chao is a licensed Pediatric 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. Chao 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.