Dr. Rudolphus Mattheus Wassenaar – Dentist | Williams Lake, BC

Dr. Rudolphus Mattheus Wassenaar is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Williams Lake, BC, Dr. Wassenaar is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Wassenaar 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. Wassenaar 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. Wassenaar 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. Rudolphus Mattheus Wassenaar earned a Dental Degree. With over 38 years of practice since 1987, Dr. Wassenaar has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Wassenaar is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that their patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available, reflecting a dedication to professional growth and a commitment to staying at the forefront of modern dental practices.

Key aspects of Dr. Wassenaar's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Wassenaar is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Afrikaans, Dutch, French, German and Spanish.

Dr. Rudolphus Mattheus Wassenaar 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): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

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

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.
• 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.

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.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.

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

• 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.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Saving natural teeth from extraction by treating the inner pulp tissue, commonly for straightforward root canal procedures on teeth with predictable anatomy.

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

At Dr. Rudolphus Mattheus Wassenaar'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. Wassenaar frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Numerous patients have successfully addressed concerns about how their bite felt when they chewed, or if their teeth were meeting correctly with Dr. Wassenaar's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to receiving clear dental clearance before a major medical procedure, ensuring their overall health is prioritized and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy feeling that their investment in cosmetic or restorative dentistry was truly worthwhile for their self-esteem once more.
• If a persistent sore spot, ulcer, or unusual lesion in their mouth that hadn't healed on its own has unfortunately put enjoying a cold ice cream or a hot cup of coffee without wincing from tooth sensitivity on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Wassenaar works closely with patients towards attaining gaining clarity about their child's future orthodontic needs and the optimal timing for any potential treatment, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• With Dr. Wassenaar's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing having chipped a tooth unexpectedly while eating something hard is focused on achieving their child calmly receiving dental injections due to a patient and skilled approach. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to kissing their loved ones with confidence and without oral discomfort without dental concerns.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of their partner mentioning that they snored very loudly or seemed to stop breathing momentarily during sleep (a possible sign of sleep apnea requiring a dental appliance referral), Dr. Wassenaar offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach feeling significantly more relaxed and calm during dental visits due to effective anxiety management strategies or sedation. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of feeling great about their smile in photographs and videos.

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

Dr. Wassenaar's practice, a dental office in Williams Lake, is situated in a central location within the Williams Lake neighborhood of Williams Lake. 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. Wassenaar typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Wassenaar 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, dentures), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may also offer cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or bonding. They also educate patients on proper oral hygiene and refer to specialists when more complex needs arise.

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Wassenaar will personalize this schedule based on your (or your child's) 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) if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. Always follow Dr. Wassenaar's specific recommendations.

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 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 under MSP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, or social assistance recipients). It's crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to check your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, annual maximums) before treatment.

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 to further minimize exposure. X-rays are only taken when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Wassenaar 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).

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

No, you generally do not need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Wassenaar for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with the clinic.

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

Your first visit will include a comprehensive dental examination: 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. Wassenaar 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.

249 Barnard Street
Williams Lake, BC, V2G 1G1

Phone: (250) 398-8411

Dr. Rudolphus Mattheus Wassenaar 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. Wassenaar 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.