Dr. Richard A. Kolen – Dentist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Richard A. Kolen is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at a dentist practice in Calgary, AB, Dr. Kolen is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Kolen 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. Kolen 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. Kolen 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. For patient convenience, direct billing to many major dental insurance plans may be available at the clinic.

Dr. Richard A. Kolen earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Kolen brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Kolen offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. Dr. Kolen 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. Kolen's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Kolen provides consultations in English.

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

Extensive Dental Treatment Needs

• Requiring Multiple or Lengthy Dental Procedures: Patients with extensive restorative, surgical, or cosmetic needs who may benefit from sedation for a more manageable and positive dental experience.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Requiring specialized dental management and a tailored care approach for children and adolescents with underlying medical conditions (e.g., congenital heart disease, bleeding disorders, immunocompromise), physical disabilities (e.g., cerebral palsy), cognitive or developmental challenges (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome), or significant behavioral issues that make routine dental treatment difficult.
• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Seeking a dental provider experienced in managing the oral health of children with complex medical histories.

Dental Anxiety Phobia

• History of Traumatic Dental Experiences: Past negative or painful dental experiences leading to profound apprehension about current or future dental treatment.
• Fear or Anxiety about Dental Visits/Procedures: Looking for sedation options (e.g., nitrous oxide, oral sedation, IV sedation) or other strategies to manage anxiety during dental care.

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

• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Conservative and durable restorations used to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage that is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a full coverage crown.
• Dental Bonding (Composite Resin Veneers/Restorations): Improving the aesthetics of front teeth with skillfully applied and polished resin material, often requiring minimal or no tooth preparation.
• Oral Conscious Sedation (Anxiolysis): Prescribing specific oral sedative medication (e.g., a benzodiazepine) to be taken shortly before dental appointments to induce a state of conscious relaxation and significantly reduce anxiety for patients undergoing more extensive, lengthy, or potentially stressful procedures.
• Smile Makeovers (Comprehensive Cosmetic Treatment Planning): Comprehensive aesthetic assessment and collaborative planning of multiple cosmetic dental procedures (e.g., whitening, veneers, bonding, crowns, gum contouring) to achieve a desired, harmonious, and transformative smile outcome.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.

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

At Dr. Richard A. Kolen'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. Kolen frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing experiencing significant fear or deep-seated anxiety about upcoming dental visits, involves working systematically towards having a comfortable, stable, and functional full-mouth tooth replacement solution, like implant-supported dentures. Dr. Kolen expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including smiling confidently in photos and social situations without any self-consciousness.
• Dr. Kolen provides dedicated support for patients going through a need for a professional dental opinion on a growth, unusual spot, or texture change in their mouth that they discovered, always aiming for positive outcomes like their old, uncomfortable dental bridge being replaced with a well-fitting and aesthetic new one, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as confidently going on dates or meeting new people without dental insecurities.
• When simply needing a routine, comprehensive dental check-up and a thorough professional cleaning starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to their smile being ready for any impromptu photo opportunity or social media post, Dr. Kolen and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their partner reporting less snoring or cessation of breathing pauses during sleep after starting treatment with a dental sleep apnea appliance (facilitated by their dentist) and a return to comfort and confidence.
• When patients discuss wanting to explore options to replace a missing tooth with a permanent solution like a dental implant, Dr. Kolen outlines a path to their smile looking its absolute best for an important upcoming wedding, graduation, or other special event, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably no longer having to 'guard' a sensitive tooth when eating or drinking.

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

Dr. Kolen's practice, a dental office in Calgary, is situated in the NW: Tuscany, Scenic Acres neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near Downtown Core and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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 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's crucial 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.

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 between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Kolen 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. Kolen at the clinic?

Your first visit with Dr. Kolen 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. Kolen 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.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Kolen is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services including: preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

I'm very anxious about dental visits. Does Dr. Kolen offer any sedation options?

Yes, Dr. Kolen understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, our clinic offers various sedation options, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Kolen during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Kolen 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). Following Dr. Kolen's specific recommendation is crucial.

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

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

#110 - 15 Royal Vista Place
Calgary, AB, T3R 0P3

Phone: (403) 241-2961

Dr. Richard A. Kolen 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. Kolen 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.