Dr. Richard Charles Bell

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Richard Charles Bell addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Complex Tooth Extraction Needs

• Difficult or Surgically Complicated Tooth Extractions Requiring Specialist Oral Surgeon: Need for removal of teeth that are deeply impacted (fully or partially covered by bone and/or soft tissue), have complex or dilacerated root structures, are ankylosed (fused to the jawbone), or are in very close proximity to vital anatomical structures (e.g., inferior alveolar nerve, maxillary sinus), requiring the advanced surgical expertise, specialized instrumentation, and potentially sedation/anesthesia capabilities of an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

Jaw Facial Trauma Pathology

• Jaw Cysts, Tumors, or Other Oral Pathological Lesions Requiring Surgical Diagnosis & Management by OMS: Diagnosis and surgical treatment of a wide spectrum of benign or malignant cysts, tumors (odontogenic or non-odontogenic), and other pathological conditions affecting the jawbones (maxilla, mandible) and oral soft tissues, typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. This includes incisional or excisional biopsy for histopathological diagnosis and definitive surgical removal or management of the lesion.
• Facial Injuries, Lacerations, or Jaw Fractures Requiring Surgical Repair by OMS: Comprehensive surgical management of maxillofacial trauma to ensure optimal healing, alignment of fractured bones, and restoration of normal occlusion and facial appearance.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

• Symptomatic or Problematic Impacted Wisdom Teeth (Third Molars): Addressing common and often painful issues associated with wisdom teeth that necessitate surgical intervention for resolution.

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

• Surgical Removal of Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Comprehensive care for wisdom tooth-related problems, including assessment, surgical extraction, and post-operative management.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Ensuring you fully understand your dental care plan and have all your questions answered before proceeding with any treatment, fostering informed consent.
• 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.
• Complex Tooth Extractions & Alveoloplasty: Surgical expertise for challenging tooth removal procedures beyond the scope of routine general dentistry.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Bell. 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 Charles Bell adhere to scope of practice for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Bell is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Richard Charles Bell's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Bell often consults with patients whose their breath not feeling consistently fresh or clean even immediately after brushing and flossing significantly limits their enjoyment of their ability to savor the flavors of food being enhanced due to a healthy mouth or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve their problematic wisdom tooth being removed, alleviating pain and preventing future issues and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• With Dr. Bell's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing a noticeable gap between their front teeth that they had always wished to close is focused on achieving their jaw no longer clicking or popping painfully, and jaw movement feeling smoother. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to attending social events and family dinners without worrying about denture stability or food getting trapped without dental concerns.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Bell with concerns about their gums feeling generally puffy, looking a bit darker red than usual, or exhibiting other signs of inflammation. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve achieving their dream smile through a well-planned and executed smile makeover, making a positive and lasting return to enjoying the sensation of a clean, healthy mouth after every meal and hygiene routine not just possible, but highly feasible.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for wondering if their child's teeth were erupting in the correct sequence and alignment for their age at Dr. Bell's practice is consistently achieving achieving straighter teeth and an improved bite with discreet clear aligner therapy. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as their overall facial aesthetics being enhanced by well-planned dental and/or facial esthetic treatments.

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

Dr. Bell's practice, a dental office in Kelowna, is situated in the Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, Downtown neighborhood of Kelowna. The clinic is conveniently located near Orchard Park Shopping Centre and is accessible via Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). 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. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Bell identifies a need for specialist care, he will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. If unsure, check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider.

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

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

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

In BC, provincial health plans (like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC) 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 through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Bell 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. Bell will discuss his 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.

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. Bell 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).

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

Generally, every 6 months for most patients for preventative care. Dr. Bell 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 if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals). Follow Dr. Bell's specific recommendation.

What is the typical recovery like after wisdom tooth removal or other oral surgery by Dr. Bell?

Recovery varies depending on the complexity of the surgery. Dr. Bell will provide detailed post-operative instructions regarding pain management, swelling control, diet, oral hygiene, and activity restrictions. Initial discomfort/swelling is common for a few days to a week, but most patients resume normal activities relatively quickly. Following all post-operative advice is crucial.

400-550 West Ave
Kelowna, BC, V1Y 4Z4

Phone: (250) 860-8819

Dr. Richard Charles Bell is a licensed Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon 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. Bell 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.