Dr. Robert Lin – Dentist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Robert Lin is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Lin is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Lin 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. Lin 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. Lin 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 Lin earned a Dental Degree. With over 39 years of practice since 1986, Dr. Lin's extensive clinical experience has provided a solid foundation for their expertise. Dr. Lin is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available. This commitment to professional development reflects Dr. Lin's unwavering dedication to providing exceptional dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Lin's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Lin is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Cantonese, Mandarin and Vietnamese.

Dr. Robert Lin 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 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.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.

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): Early to moderate stages of gum disease involving some bone loss around teeth, managed by GPs with deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance.

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.

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

• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Gentle and efficient extraction of problematic teeth when deemed necessary to maintain overall oral health, resolve infection, or alleviate persistent pain.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Vigilant screening for oral cancer, a critical component of maintaining your overall health.
• Fluoride Treatments: Strengthening tooth surfaces with fluoride to make them more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria.
• 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.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.

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

At Dr. Robert Lin'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. Lin frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For patients where a desire to explore more permanent or stable options for replacing all of their missing teeth effectively is a primary concern, Dr. Lin focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in their child having fewer cavities due to improved dietary habits and hygiene practices taught at the clinic. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully confidently going on dates or meeting new people without dental insecurities.
• Are you struggling with their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession? Dr. Lin partners with patients to target a suspicious white or red patch in their mouth being diagnosed early, leading to effective management, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as their child eating a healthy, varied diet without complaining of tooth pain a much more achievable reality.
• When ongoing concerns about bad breath that they believed might be related to a hidden dental infection or persistent gum problem begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Lin helps patients strive for their persistent bad breath being eliminated after addressing the underlying dental cause. This makes participating in activities such as their family members also benefiting from improved oral health knowledge shared from the patient's visits a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed their existing dentures not fitting as comfortably or securely as they used to with Dr. Lin's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their child's dental emergency being handled swiftly and compassionately, minimizing distress and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet once more.

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

Dr. Lin's practice is a dental office conveniently located in the Kerrisdale South, Dunbar South neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is situated near the Vancouver Art Gallery and is easily accessible via TransLink, utilizing the SkyTrain (Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines), bus routes, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront Station). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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 for the general public. Some limited dental surgeries performed within a hospital setting <em>may</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are 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, or social assistance recipients). It is crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to carefully review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-pays, deductibles, and annual maximums) before commencing treatment.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, particularly modern digital X-rays that utilize minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are always used. X-rays are only taken when clinically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Lin will determine the appropriate frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, following guidelines such as ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

Your first visit with Dr. Lin 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. Lin 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.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Lin will personalize this schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions (e.g., those with active gum disease or high caries risk might need more frequent visits). Always follow Dr. Lin's specific recommendations.

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

No, a referral is not typically needed to see a general dentist like Dr. Lin for check-ups, cleanings, or consultations. Appointments can usually be booked directly with the clinic.

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

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

What are the most effective ways to prevent cavities (tooth decay)?

Cavity prevention involves consistent home care and regular professional visits with Dr. Lin. This includes brushing twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and attending routine dental check-ups and cleanings. Dr. Lin may also recommend dental sealants or in-office fluoride applications, particularly for children.

570 - 2184 West Broadway
Vancouver, BC, V6K 2E1

Phone: (604) 736-7468

Dr. Robert Lin 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. Lin 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.