Dr. Richard M. Graham

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

Dental Trauma Children

• Traumatic Injuries to Primary or Young Permanent Teeth in Children: Seeking expert urgent and long-term care for dental trauma in children to maximize the chances of saving injured teeth, managing pain and infection, and monitoring for potential complications to developing permanent teeth.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.

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: 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.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Graham. 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: Tailored dental services to meet the unique needs of growing smiles, from first tooth to teenage years.
• Pulp Therapy for Primary Teeth (Pulpotomy, Pulpectomy): Endodontic procedures specifically adapted for children's primary teeth to eliminate infection and preserve the tooth.
• Pediatric Sedation Dentistry (Nitrous Oxide, Oral Sedation, IV Sedation, General Anesthesia - Specialist Setting): Specialized pediatric sedation and anesthesia services to enable complex or lengthy dental work to be completed effectively and humanely for challenging cases.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Comprehensive dental imaging services, including panoramic and intraoral X-rays, to aid in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
• Management of Early Childhood Caries (ECC) & Cavities in Children: Comprehensive strategies for preventing and treating cavities in young children, including dietary counseling, hygiene instruction, fluoride application, sealants, and restorative fillings (e.g., composite, stainless steel crowns).

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

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

• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Graham to see patients who were troubled by a specific tooth being noticeably sensitive to pressure or discomfort when they chewed or bit down on food successfully achieve a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet.
• When a child in their care who had special healthcare needs (physical, cognitive, or behavioral) and required a particularly patient, understanding, and accommodating dental provider starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to no longer experiencing the embarrassment or discomfort of ill-fitting or noticeable dental work, Dr. Graham and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their child stopping their thumb-sucking habit with supportive guidance, protecting their dental development and a return to comfort and confidence.
• Managing a tooth getting accidentally knocked out or avulsed during a sports game or accident effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Graham and the dental team. The clear aim is always receiving a new, well-fitting set of dentures that dramatically improved their ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying no longer needing to frequently visit the dentist for recurring problems due to better preventative care and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• Dr. Graham expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of needing a substantial amount of dental work done and feeling quite overwhelmed by the prospect. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their slightly crooked front teeth being straightened effectively with a conservative cosmetic option, means they can happily and comfortably get back to their ability to enunciate words clearly for better communication.

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

Dr. Graham's practice is a dental office in Edmonton, situated in the SW: Lendrum Place, Malmo Plains, Lansdowne neighborhood of Edmonton. The clinic is conveniently located near Fairmont Hotel Macdonald and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Graham 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 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 through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). It is crucial to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check the details of your private dental insurance regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at 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 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. Graham 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 does Dr. Graham as a Pediatric Dentist manage children with dental anxiety or special healthcare needs?

Dr. Graham's specialized training includes behavior guidance techniques (tell-show-do, positive reinforcement, distraction), creating a child-friendly environment, and experience with patients with various needs. Options like nitrous oxide may be used, or referral for deeper sedation/general anesthesia may be coordinated if appropriate, emphasizing a patient and gentle approach.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Graham 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, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Graham will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

What is the process for becoming a new patient at our clinic with Dr. Graham?

We welcome new patients! To become a new patient with Dr. Graham, please call our office at (780) 441-1101 or visit our website at if online booking is available. Our team will gather some basic information and schedule your first appointment, which is typically a comprehensive examination and consultation. Please be prepared to provide your medical history and any dental insurance information you may have. We look forward to meeting you!

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. Graham. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Graham identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance if unsure.

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

Generally, every 6 months for most patients for preventative care. Dr. Graham 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. Graham's specific recommendation.

Suite 215, 2920 Calgary Trail South
Edmonton, AB, T6J 7C2

Phone: (780) 441-1101

Dr. Richard M. Graham is a licensed Pediatric 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. Graham 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.