Dr. Robert Sean Saunders

Dr. Robert Sean Saunders provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Gum Disease Initial

• 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.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.

Dental Pain Emergency

• 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.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
• 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.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.

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

• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Conservative and durable restorations used to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage that is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a full coverage crown.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Personalized instruction and demonstration of proper brushing and flossing techniques to effectively remove plaque and maintain optimal oral hygiene at home.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: High-resolution dental photography for documenting conditions, planning treatments, and tracking progress.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Fabrication of custom-fitted sports mouthguards to protect teeth and jaws from injury during athletic activities.
• Dental Crowns (Caps): Durable and aesthetic crowns designed to restore the form, function, and integrity of significantly damaged or endodontically treated teeth.

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

At Box 530, 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. Saunders frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• A key objective when treating a canker sore (aphthous ulcer) that was unusually large, very painful, or taking a long time to heal at Dr. Saunders's welcoming dental clinic is achieving no longer experiencing annoying food impaction between their teeth after restorative treatment. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like their gums feeling healthy and looking good, contributing to overall oral wellness.
• Effectively addressing their child feeling particularly anxious or fearful about an upcoming dental filling or procedure with Dr. Saunders's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of their child feeling positive and at ease during their regular dental visits, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in confidently going on dates or meeting new people without dental insecurities and social interactions.
• Dr. Saunders understands that dealing with waking up frequently with a sore jaw, facial muscle tenderness, or tension headaches, possibly from teeth grinding can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving their receding gums being stabilized or treated, protecting their tooth roots, helping patients comfortably get back to confidently taking on speaking roles or performances without concern for their dental appearance or speech clarity and feeling their best.
• Through Dr. Saunders's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease often find they can readily achieve clarity on their child's dental eruption sequence and any potential developmental concerns and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like being able to focus on their passions and pursuits without the constant background noise of dental issues.

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

Dr. Saunders's practice, Box 530, is situated in a central location within the Lantzville neighborhood of Lantzville. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Saunders is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services. These include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, dental sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease (gingivitis and early periodontitis), and may also offer cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or bonding. Dr. Saunders also provides valuable education on maintaining good oral hygiene and will refer patients to specialists for more complex needs.

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

In British Columbia, provincial health plans like the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically do <strong>not</strong> cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered under MSP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers). Government assistance programs may cover dental care for eligible groups such as children from low-income families or seniors on specific benefits. It's crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before treatment at Box 530.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Saunders at Box 530?

At your first appointment, Dr. Saunders and the team will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. You'll fill out a medical history form, discuss any dental concerns or goals, and undergo a thorough oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Saunders will then explain their findings and recommend any necessary treatments. This is a great opportunity to ask questions.

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 only taken when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Saunders will determine the frequency based on your individual needs, risk factors, and dental history, 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 may accept patients directly, a referral from your general dentist, like Dr. Saunders, is often recommended or required by the specialist or your insurance plan. A referral ensures the specialist has the necessary background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Saunders determines you need specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Always check with the specialist's office or your insurance provider if you are unsure.

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Saunders will personalize your schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months for active gum disease), while others may have longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Saunders' specific recommendations.

What payment options are available at Box 530 for dental services?

At Box 530, we accept cash, debit, and major credit cards (Visa and MasterCard). If you have dental insurance, please bring your policy information; our team will help you understand your coverage and process claims. For extensive treatment plans, financing options can be discussed with our office manager.

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

No, a referral is not needed to schedule an appointment with a general dentist like Dr. Saunders. You can contact Box 530 directly to arrange your visit.

Box 530
7180 Lantzville Road
Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0

Phone: (250) 390-2832

Dr. Robert Sean Saunders 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. Saunders 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.