Description
About Dr. McCullough
Dr. Robert A. McCullough is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Edmonton, AB, Dr. McCullough is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. McCullough 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. McCullough 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. McCullough 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. Robert A. McCullough earned a Dental Degree. Dr. McCullough brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. McCullough is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. McCullough remains at the forefront of advancements in dental technology and techniques, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available. Their dedication to professional development reflects their commitment to providing exceptional patient care.
Key aspects of Dr. McCullough's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. McCullough strives to create a comfortable and welcoming environment where patients feel heard and understood. Dr. McCullough provides consultations in English.
Oral Health Conditions Addressed by Dr. Robert A. McCullough
Dr. Robert A. McCullough provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:
Dental Pain Emergency
- Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
- Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.
- 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.
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): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
Common Dental Issues
- Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.
- Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.
- Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
Preventative Oral Health Topics
- Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
- Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. McCullough. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.
Dr. Robert A. McCullough's Dental Services
- 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.
- Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Providing guidance on how dietary choices impact oral health, including advice on reducing sugary food/drink intake and promoting tooth-friendly nutrition.
- 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.
- Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
- 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.
Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. McCullough. 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. Robert A. McCullough adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).
Achieving Your Oral Health & Smile Goals with Dr. McCullough
At Dr. Robert A. McCullough'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. McCullough frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:
- A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. McCullough about a wish to correct slightly crooked or misaligned front teeth without undergoing full comprehensive orthodontic braces is to attain feeling a renewed sense of confidence in their smile and overall appearance. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like their smile reflecting their inner happiness and confidence.
- The journey from their jaw making clicking, popping, or grating sounds when they opened their mouth wide or chewed to wellness often involves Dr. McCullough's dedicated care. The milestone is their broken amalgam filling being safely removed and replaced with a modern restoration, which opens the door back to activities such as maintaining a youthful appearance complemented by a healthy and attractive smile.
- Through Dr. McCullough's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from their child needing preventative dental sealants applied to their newly erupted permanent molars to protect against cavities often find they can readily achieve their child's newly erupted molars being protected from decay with dental sealants and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like maintaining fresh breath, which improves their social and professional interactions.
- For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of experiencing significant fear or deep-seated anxiety about upcoming dental visits, Dr. McCullough offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach finding a welcoming and skilled dental practice capable of caring for their entire family's needs. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of feeling that their investment in cosmetic or restorative dentistry was truly worthwhile for their self-esteem.
Your personalized dental treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. McCullough, will be carefully designed to help you reach your specific functional, aesthetic, and overall oral wellness objectives. Dr. McCullough is committed to empowering patients with the information and high-quality care needed to achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile for life.
Clinic Location & Accessibility
Dr. McCullough's practice, a well-regarded dental office in Edmonton, is situated in a convenient Edmonton neighborhood near the Old Strathcona Historic Area. The clinic is easily accessible via the Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including the LRT and bus routes. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dentist with Dr. McCullough in Edmonton
- What are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?
- Be aware of gums that bleed easily during oral hygiene, appear red or puffy, or feel sore, as these are common indicators of gingivitis. Persistent bad taste or bad breath can also be a sign. More advanced gum disease (periodontitis) may involve gums pulling away from teeth, noticeable tooth mobility, or discomfort when chewing. Regular dental check-ups with Dr. McCullough are crucial for early detection and effective treatment.
- How often should I (or my child) visit Dr. McCullough for a check-up and cleaning?
- For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. McCullough will recommend a personalized schedule based on your (or your child's) 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 important to follow Dr. McCullough's specific recommendations.
- Do I need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. McCullough?
- No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. McCullough for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with the clinic.
- 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 your insurance plan, to have a referral from your general dentist like Dr. McCullough. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. McCullough 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.
- 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. 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). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check your private dental insurance details before treatment.
- What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. McCullough at the clinic?
- At your initial appointment, Dr. McCullough and the team will focus on getting 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 of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. McCullough will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.
- What services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. McCullough typically provide?
- A General Dentist like Dr. McCullough 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.
- 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, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. McCullough 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).
Contact & Licensing Information for Dr. Robert A. McCullough
106- 10665 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, AB, T8B 1C9
Phone: (780) 424-8666
Dr. Robert A. McCullough 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. McCullough 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.