Dr. Ronald Michael Slemko – Dentist | Richmond, BC

Dr. Ronald Michael Slemko is a Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon. Practicing at a oral & maxillofacial surgeon practice in Richmond, BC, Dr. Slemko is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Slemko 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 Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Slemko performs a wide range of surgical procedures of the mouth, teeth, jaws, face, and skull. Common procedures include complex tooth extractions (impacted wisdom teeth), dental implant placement, bone grafting, corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery), treatment of facial trauma, TMJ surgery, and diagnosis and management of oral pathology (cysts, tumors). Dr. Slemko often provides various levels of anesthesia and sedation. Dr. Slemko 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. Ronald Michael Slemko earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. Dr. Slemko brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Slemko is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Slemko's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Slemko provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Ronald Michael Slemko addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Complex Tooth Extraction Needs

• Difficult or Surgically Complicated Tooth Extractions Requiring Specialist Oral Surgeon: Addressing challenging tooth extraction situations with precision and skill to ensure patient safety, minimize trauma, and promote optimal post-operative healing.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Requiring advanced three-dimensional imaging to precisely visualize teeth, bone structures, nerve pathways, sinuses, and TMJ in intricate detail.

Oral Cysts Tumors Diagnosis

• Presence of Cysts or Tumors in the Jawbones or Oral Soft Tissues: Identification of abnormal growths, swellings, or radiolucencies/opacities on X-rays or CBCT scans that are suspected to be cysts (e.g., dentigerous cyst, radicular cyst, keratocyst) or tumors (benign or malignant) of the oral and maxillofacial region, requiring biopsy and specialist management.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

• Symptomatic or Problematic Impacted Wisdom Teeth (Third Molars): Experiencing problems related to third molars (wisdom teeth) that are unable to fully or properly erupt into the dental arch. Symptoms include pain, recurrent swelling, infection of the overlying gum tissue (pericoronitis), formation of cysts, or damage/resorption to adjacent second molar teeth, often requiring surgical removal by an oral surgeon or a general dentist with advanced surgical skills.

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

• Surgical Removal of Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Expert surgical extraction of impacted third molars (wisdom teeth) under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, minimizing discomfort and promoting optimal healing.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: High-resolution dental photography for documenting conditions, planning treatments, and tracking progress.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Dedicated time to review diagnostic findings, explain recommended procedures, and collaboratively create a dental care strategy that meets your needs and goals.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Vigilant screening for oral cancer, a critical component of maintaining your overall health.
• Advanced Surgical Diagnostic Imaging (CBCT, CT for OMS): Utilizing and interpreting advanced imaging such as Cone Beam CT (CBCT) or medical CT scans for precise diagnosis and surgical planning in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Slemko is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Ronald Michael Slemko's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• When a noticeable gap between their front teeth that they had always wished to close begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Slemko helps patients strive for their child's newly erupted molars being protected from decay with dental sealants. This makes participating in activities such as easily flossing and brushing without encountering pain or bleeding from their gums a pleasant and possible experience again.
• If a persistent sore spot, ulcer, or unusual lesion in their mouth that hadn't healed on its own is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Slemko develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their receding gums being stabilized or treated, protecting their tooth roots. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy feeling that their investment in cosmetic or restorative dentistry was truly worthwhile for their self-esteem.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Slemko about their child frequently complaining of a sore tooth or dental discomfort is to attain finally addressing a long-standing dental problem, leading to improved oral health and comfort. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like enjoying a cold ice cream or a hot cup of coffee without wincing from tooth sensitivity.
• Patients experiencing noticing their gums seemed to be receding or pulling away from their teeth, making teeth look longer often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Slemko's practice, a key objective is no longer experiencing annoying food impaction between their teeth after restorative treatment, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in their child focusing better at school, free from the distraction of dental issues.

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

Dr. Slemko's practice, a dental office in Richmond, is situated in the West Richmond (Terra Nova, Thompson) neighborhood of Richmond. The clinic is conveniently located near Aberdeen Centre and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Canada Line, Bus). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Slemko identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. If unsure, check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider.

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

In BC, provincial health plans like the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically do 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, or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

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

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Slemko and the team will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, discuss dental issues or goals, and undergo a detailed examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Slemko will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Slemko will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual needs, risk factors, and existing conditions. Some may need visits every 3-4 months, while others might have slightly longer intervals. Follow Dr. Slemko's specific recommendation.

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 diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Slemko will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, adhering to guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

700 - 6091 Gilbert Rd
Richmond, BC, V7C 5L9

Phone: (604) 273-5655

Dr. Ronald Michael Slemko is a licensed Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon 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. Slemko 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.