Description
About Dr. Germain
Dr. Robert Allan Germain is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Mission, BC, Dr. Germain is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Germain 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. Germain 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. Germain 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 Allan Germain earned a Dental Degree. With over 33 years of practice since 1992, Dr. Germain has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Germain 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, reflecting Dr. Germain's dedication to professional excellence and a commitment to staying at the forefront of advancements in the dental field.
Key aspects of Dr. Germain's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Germain provides consultations in English.
Oral Health Conditions Addressed by Dr. Robert Allan Germain
Dr. Robert Allan Germain provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:
Common Dental Issues
- Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
- Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.
- Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
Preventative Oral Health Topics
- Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.
- Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
Gum Disease Initial
- Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
- Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.
This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Germain. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.
Dr. Robert Allan Germain's Dental Services
- Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Essential maintenance services to extend the life and performance of your dentures, ensuring they continue to serve you well and comfortably.
- Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): More involved tooth extractions that are beyond simple forceps removal, potentially including careful elevation of soft tissues for better visibility and access (for less complex surgical cases appropriate for a GP setting).
- Dental Sealants: Protective sealants for children and adolescents to safeguard vulnerable back teeth from decay.
- Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Fabrication of custom-fitted sports mouthguards to protect teeth and jaws from injury during athletic activities.
- Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Durable and precisely fitting partial crowns designed to preserve more natural tooth structure while effectively repairing significant decay or fractures on the chewing surfaces.
Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Germain. 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 Allan Germain adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).
Achieving Your Oral Health & Smile Goals with Dr. Germain
At Dr. Robert Allan Germain'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. Germain frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:
- Dr. Germain's comprehensive care for their child feeling particularly anxious or fearful about an upcoming dental filling or procedure is meticulously designed to result in the dark spot on their tooth being treated, preventing a larger cavity from forming. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as participating actively in sports without fear of dental injury, especially with a custom mouthguard without dental worries.
- For individuals troubled by a tooth that felt 'high' or uncomfortable after a recent dental filling, affecting their bite, Dr. Germain's approach is focused on delivering finally addressing a long-standing dental problem, leading to improved oral health and comfort. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like feeling confident that their oral health is positively contributing to their systemic health with a healthier smile.
- The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing needing a custom-fitted mouthguard for playing sports to properly protect their teeth and jaw from injury, involves working systematically towards a suspicious white or red patch in their mouth being diagnosed early, leading to effective management. Dr. Germain expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet.
- Are you struggling with concerns about how their bite felt when they chewed, or if their teeth were meeting correctly? Dr. Germain partners with patients to target their old, uncomfortable dental bridge being replaced with a well-fitting and aesthetic new one, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as maintaining fresh breath, which improves their social and professional interactions a much more achievable reality.
Your personalized dental treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Germain, will be carefully designed to help you reach your specific functional, aesthetic, and overall oral wellness objectives. Dr. Germain 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. Germain's practice, a dental office in Mission, is situated in a central location within the Mission neighborhood of Mission. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dentist with Dr. Germain in Mission
- What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Germain at the clinic?
- Your first visit with Dr. Germain 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. Germain 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.
- Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?
- In British Columbia, the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan, or MSP) typically does <strong>not</strong> cover routine or major dental procedures in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting <em>may</em> be covered. Most dental care is paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance (often provided by employers), or via government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., low-income families with children, seniors on specific benefits). Patients should verify their eligibility for public coverage and check their private insurance details (coverage, co-pays, deductibles, annual maximums) before treatment.
- What are the common signs of gum disease I should watch out for?
- Early signs of gum disease (gingivitis) often include red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums (especially when brushing or flossing), and sometimes persistent bad breath. If it progresses to periodontitis, you might notice receding gums (teeth appearing longer), pus between teeth and gums, loose teeth, or changes in your bite. If you observe any of these symptoms, it's important to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Germain promptly.
- Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?
- Dental X-rays are very safe, especially modern digital X-rays using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Germain determines the frequency based on your individual needs and risk factors, following guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).
- Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see a dental specialist (e.g., Orthodontist, Periodontist)?
- While some specialists accept patients directly, a referral from a general dentist like Dr. Germain is often recommended or required by the specialist or insurance plans. A referral ensures the specialist has necessary information and the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Germain feels specialist care is needed, they will provide a referral.
- Do I need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Germain?
- No, you generally do not need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Germain for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with the clinic.
- How often should I (or my child) visit Dr. Germain for a check-up and cleaning?
- For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Germain will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months), while others may have longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Germain's specific recommendations.
- What services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Germain typically provide?
- A General Dentist like Dr. Germain is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages. Services include 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 possibly cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for complex needs.
Contact & Licensing Information for Dr. Robert Allan Germain
33038 2nd Ave
Mission, BC, V2V 1J8
Phone: (604) 826-2960
Dr. Robert Allan Germain 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. Germain 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.