Dr. Rex Felix Hawthorne – Dentist | Vernon, BC

Dr. Rex Felix Hawthorne is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Vernon, BC, Dr. Hawthorne is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Hawthorne 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. Hawthorne 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. Hawthorne 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. Rex Felix Hawthorne earned a Dental Degree. With over 30 years of practice since 1995, Dr. Hawthorne has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Hawthorne is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Hawthorne remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, consistently delivering the highest standard of care to their patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Hawthorne's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Hawthorne is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Spanish.

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

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: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.

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.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Tooth decay in infants and young children, often affecting the upper front teeth, requiring early intervention and preventative strategies.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.

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.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.
• 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.

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

• Fluoride Treatments: Professional fluoride therapy to help protect your teeth against decay and enhance remineralization.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Educating patients on the importance of gum health and the steps they can take to maintain healthy periodontal tissues for life.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Treatment involving the removal of infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, thorough cleaning and shaping of the root canal system, and sealing it to prevent reinfection, often for less complex endodontic cases.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.
• 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.

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

At Dr. Rex Felix Hawthorne'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. Hawthorne frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Hawthorne understands that dealing with an old dental crown that needed to be replaced because it was visibly worn, chipped, poorly fitting, or had decay underneath can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving their child receiving necessary specialized dental care thanks to a timely referral, helping patients comfortably get back to enjoying a corn on the cob or biting into a crisp apple without hesitation and feeling their best.
• Understanding the frustration their child being overdue for their regular dental visit and preventative care can cause, Dr. Hawthorne tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their new partial or full denture feeling exceptionally stable, comfortable, and looking completely natural, allowing for renewed participation in activities like laughing openly and heartily without worrying about the appearance of their teeth.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Hawthorne when they first notice experiencing a dull, persistent ache in their jaw joint area that sometimes radiated towards their ear or temple. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their jaw no longer clicking or popping painfully, and jaw movement feeling smoother, enabling them to once again enjoy showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion without hesitation.
• When noticing their gums seemed to be receding or pulling away from their teeth, making teeth look longer begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Hawthorne helps patients strive for their dentures fitting much more comfortably and securely, improving their ability to eat and speak. This makes participating in activities such as delivering important presentations or public speeches with clarity and self-assurance a pleasant and possible experience again.

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

Dr. Hawthorne's practice is a dental office located in the Central Vernon, Downtown neighborhood of Vernon, BC. The clinic is conveniently located near Vernon Museum & Archives and is accessible via the Vernon Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Hawthorne 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 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. It is crucial to follow Dr. Hawthorne's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

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, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Hawthorne 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).

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

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. Hawthorne.

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 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 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 is important to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at the clinic.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Hawthorne and the team will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Hawthorne will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

101 - 4005 - 27 Street
Vernon, BC, V1T 4X9

Phone: (250) 545-5604

Dr. Rex Felix Hawthorne 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. Hawthorne 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.