Dr. Robin Simon Abbey – Dentist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Robin Simon Abbey is a Endodontist. Practicing at Kitsilano Endodontics in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Abbey is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Abbey 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. As a certified specialist in Endodontics, Dr. Abbey is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries of the dental pulp (nerve) and periradicular tissues (tissues surrounding the root of a tooth). Primary services include complex root canal therapy, retreatment of previous root canals, endodontic surgery (apicoectomy), and management of traumatic dental injuries. Dr. Abbey 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 Kitsilano Endodontics.

Dr. Robin Simon Abbey earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Endodontics. Dr. Abbey brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Abbey 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. Abbey's dedication to excellence in endodontic care and their ongoing pursuit of professional growth and development within their field.

Key aspects of Dr. Abbey's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Abbey is fluent in English and also offers consultations in French.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Endodontics, Dr. Robin Simon Abbey addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Cracked Teeth Endo

• Cracked Tooth Syndrome or Vertical Root Fractures Requiring Endodontic Evaluation: Symptoms such as sharp pain on biting or release, or intermittent pain, that may indicate a cracked tooth, potentially involving the pulp or root, requiring careful diagnostic testing and evaluation by an endodontist.

Abscessed Tooth Endo

• Acute or Chronic Dental Abscess of Endodontic Origin: Localized swelling, pain, and pus formation associated with a non-vital (dead) or previously root-canal-treated tooth, indicating an infection at the root tip that requires endodontic treatment or retreatment to resolve.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.

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

• Complex Root Canal Therapy & Retreatment (Specialist Level): Specialized endodontic care for difficult cases to save natural teeth and eliminate infection or pain.
• 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.
• 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.
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging: Access to or provision of 3D CBCT scans for detailed imaging of teeth, jawbone, sinuses, and TMJ, essential for complex treatment planning.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Endodontics, Dr. Abbey is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Kitsilano Endodontics, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Many people seek Dr. Abbey's professional help and expertise when dealing with a tooth that suddenly became extremely and uncharacteristically sensitive to cold water or air, causing sharp pain. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently gaining clarity about their child's future orthodontic needs and the optimal timing for any potential treatment, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to enjoying the full taste of food without a metallic taste from old fillings or bad breath.
• Effectively addressing the area around one of their existing dental implants feeling persistently sore, inflamed, or showing signs of bleeding with Dr. Abbey's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of experiencing a significant reduction in jaw pain and morning headaches after treatment for teeth grinding (bruxism), enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in simply relaxing and not having dental pain or problems on their mind constantly and social interactions.
• When patients discuss needing a substantial amount of dental work done and feeling quite overwhelmed by the prospect, Dr. Abbey outlines a path to their chipped or broken tooth being beautifully restored to its natural shape and function, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably feeling relief from chronic headaches that were linked to their TMJ or bruxism.
• Patients presenting with a single tooth that had become noticeably darker in color than the adjacent teeth, possibly after trauma can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of achieving the beautiful, confident smile they had always desired through cosmetic dentistry under Dr. Abbey's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume feeling that their investment in cosmetic or restorative dentistry was truly worthwhile for their self-esteem without the former limitations or discomfort.

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

Dr. Abbey's practice, Kitsilano Endodontics, is situated in the Kerrisdale South, Dunbar South neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Canada Line Stations and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

Why is it important to try and save a tooth with root canal treatment by an Endodontist like Dr. Abbey, instead of just extracting it?

Saving a natural tooth with endodontic treatment by a specialist like Dr. Abbey is usually the best option because it maintains natural chewing function, normal biting force, and natural appearance, and prevents adjacent teeth from shifting, which can lead to other dental problems. Replacing an extracted tooth with a bridge or implant can be more complex and costly in the long run.

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

In BC, provincial health plans (like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC) 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). Always verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment at Kitsilano Endodontics.

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. Abbey 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).

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Abbey at Kitsilano Endodontics?

Your first visit with Dr. Abbey 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. Abbey 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.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Kitsilano Endodontics directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Abbey.

I'm very anxious about dental visits. Does Dr. Abbey offer any sedation options?

Dr. Abbey and our team at Kitsilano Endodontics are committed to making your dental experience as comfortable as possible. While we may not offer extensive sedation options in-house, please discuss any anxieties you have with Dr. Abbey. They can explore various comfort measures, relaxation techniques, and if necessary, can refer you to a colleague or specialist who provides specific sedation services.

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

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care is recommended. Dr. Abbey 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. Abbey's specific recommendation.

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. Abbey. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Abbey 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.

Kitsilano Endodontics
402-2150 West Broadway
Vancouver, BC, V6K 4L9

Phone: (604) 731-3377

Dr. Robin Simon Abbey is a licensed Endodontist 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. Abbey 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.