Dr. Roma Maria Pastershank

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

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• 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.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.

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

• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): Extraction of teeth that are not straightforward to remove due to their position, root morphology, or condition, performed within the scope of general dental practice and comfort level.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Metal-free white fillings to restore tooth structure, function, and maintain a natural, healthy-looking smile.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.
• 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.

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

At Beaufort Family Dental, 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. Pastershank frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Through Dr. Pastershank's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from needing a thorough dental check-up and clearance before starting a major medical treatment or undergoing surgery (e.g., cardiac surgery, organ transplant, chemotherapy) often find they can readily achieve their new partial or full denture feeling exceptionally stable, comfortable, and looking completely natural and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like their child being able to eat nutritious crunchy fruits and vegetables without discomfort.
• For individuals troubled by their child's prolonged thumb-sucking habit and concerns about its impact on their teeth and jaw development, Dr. Pastershank's approach is focused on delivering achieving the beautiful, confident smile they had always desired through cosmetic dentistry. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like attending social events and family dinners without worrying about denture stability or food getting trapped with a healthier smile.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Pastershank when they first notice experiencing significant gum bleeding every time they flossed, indicating possible gingivitis or early gum disease. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve achieving their dream smile through a well-planned and executed smile makeover, enabling them to once again enjoy feeling that their smile truly reflects their personality and inner confidence. without hesitation.
• When patients discuss their breath not feeling consistently fresh or clean even immediately after brushing and flossing, Dr. Pastershank outlines a path to receiving a definitive diagnosis for an unusual growth or spot in their mouth, leading to appropriate action, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably no longer having to 'guard' a sensitive tooth when eating or drinking.

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

Beaufort Family Dental, where Dr. Pastershank practices, is situated in a central location within the Comox neighborhood of Comox. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

For most adults and children, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Pastershank will personalize your schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, those managing active gum disease or at high risk for cavities may need more frequent visits (every 3-4 months), while patients with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between appointments. Always follow Dr. Pastershank's specific recommendations for your optimal oral health.

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 always used to further minimize exposure. X-rays are only taken when necessary for diagnosis, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Pastershank will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

In British Columbia, the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically does not cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It's crucial to check your eligibility for any public coverage and review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, annual maximums) before treatment at Beaufort Family Dental.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Pastershank is your primary dental care provider, offering a wide range of services. These include 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 potentially cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also provide education on oral hygiene and refer to specialists when needed for more complex cases.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Pastershank at Beaufort Family Dental?

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive dental examination. This includes reviewing 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. Pastershank will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed during this visit or scheduled for a subsequent appointment.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Pastershank for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can book an appointment directly with Beaufort Family Dental.

Beaufort Family Dental
301-1757 Beaufort Avenue
Comox, BC, V9M 1R8

Phone: (250) 339-2251

Dr. Roma Maria Pastershank 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. Pastershank 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.