Dr. Ryan E. Gauf – Dentist | Sherwood Park, AB

Dr. Ryan E. Gauf is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at a dentist practice in Sherwood Park, AB, Dr. Gauf is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Gauf is licensed by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in AB. Dr. Gauf 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. Gauf also provides comprehensive general dental care with various certified levels of sedation (such as nitrous oxide/'laughing gas', oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on specific qualifications) to help anxious patients, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals undergoing extensive procedures feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable throughout their dental treatment. Further, Dr. Gauf offers facial esthetic treatments using therapeutic neuromodulators (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin® for bruxism, TMJ pain, or cosmetic enhancement of the upper face such as frown lines and crow's feet) and/or dermal fillers to complement dental aesthetics, address facial harmony, and rejuvenate facial appearance, based on their specific certified training levels. Dr. Gauf 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. Ryan E. Gauf earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Gauf brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Gauf offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Facial Esthetic Services (Neuromodulators & Dermal Fillers) and General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. Dr. Gauf is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Gauf's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Gauf provides consultations in English.

Dr. Ryan E. Gauf 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

• 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): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.

Tmj Disorders Bruxism

• Limited Jaw Opening (Trismus) or Difficulty Chewing Comfortably: Functional limitations of the jaw movement and masticatory system that require careful assessment and appropriate treatment.
• Teeth Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism) - Day or Night: Awareness of, or reported symptoms related to, habitual or unconscious teeth grinding (attrition facets, worn enamel) or clenching (jaw soreness, muscle hypertrophy), occurring during the day or, more commonly, at night during sleep.

Gag Reflex Management

• Difficulty with Dental Procedures Due to Severe Gag Reflex: Experiencing a hyperactive or severe gag reflex that significantly interferes with routine dental examinations, X-rays, impressions, or treatments.

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

• Occlusal Splints / Night Guards / Bite Guards for Bruxism & TMJ Disorders: Custom design, fabrication, and fitting of personalized oral appliances such as occlusal splints (night guards, bite guards) to protect teeth from the damaging effects of nocturnal or daytime bruxism (teeth clenching and grinding), help relax overworked jaw muscles, and alleviate TMJ muscle strain and associated pain.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.
• Dental Sealants: A simple and effective preventative measure to reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
• Surgical Extractions (Less Complex Cases - e.g., Sectioning, Erupted Wisdom Teeth): Removal of some erupted or partially erupted teeth, including some erupted wisdom teeth, that may require minor surgical techniques such as sectioning the tooth or minimal bone removal for access, depending on the dentist's training, experience, and case complexity.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Essential maintenance services to extend the life and performance of your dentures, ensuring they continue to serve you well and comfortably.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Gauf. 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. Ryan E. Gauf adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

At Dr. Ryan E. Gauf'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. Gauf frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• If noticing their gums seemed to be receding or pulling away from their teeth, making teeth look longer is preventing you from fully enjoying feeling good about their overall appearance and the positive first impression their smile makes or causing discomfort, Dr. Gauf offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve achieving straighter teeth and an improved bite with discreet clear aligner therapy through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• Understanding the frustration a desire to discuss options for a comprehensive 'smile makeover' to address multiple aesthetic concerns can cause, Dr. Gauf tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their gums looking pink and healthy again after treatment for gingivitis or early gum disease, allowing for renewed participation in activities like feeling relief from chronic headaches that were linked to their TMJ or bruxism.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Gauf about having chipped a tooth unexpectedly while eating something hard is to attain their child stopping their thumb-sucking habit with supportive guidance, protecting their dental development. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like their overall facial aesthetics being enhanced by well-planned dental and/or facial esthetic treatments.
• The journey from a desire for professional advice on how to effectively stop their child's cavities from getting worse or prevent new ones from forming to wellness often involves Dr. Gauf's dedicated care. The milestone is achieving their desired level of teeth whiteness safely and effectively under professional supervision, which opens the door back to activities such as getting a full night's sleep without being woken up by a throbbing toothache or jaw pain.

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

Dr. Gauf's practice, a dental office in Sherwood Park, is situated in a central location within the Sherwood Park neighborhood of Sherwood Park. 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.

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

For most adults and children, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Gauf 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. It is crucial to follow Dr. Gauf's specific recommendations for your optimal oral health.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Gauf and the team will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to complete a medical history form, discuss any dental concerns or goals, and undergo a thorough oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken for a complete assessment. Dr. Gauf will then explain their findings and recommend any necessary treatments. This is also 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 utilize minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are always used. X-rays are only taken when clinically necessary, such as for new patients, to detect decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Gauf 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. Gauf?

No, a referral is typically not needed to schedule an appointment with a general dentist like Dr. Gauf. You can contact the clinic directly to arrange your visit.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

In Alberta, provincial health plans like the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) generally do not cover 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 plans (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 essential to check your eligibility for any public coverage and review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, annual maximums) before starting treatment.

170-8005 Emerald Drive
Sherwood Park, AB, T8H 0P1

Phone: (587) 269-4900

Dr. Ryan E. Gauf is a licensed Dentist in AB, regulated by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) under the Health Professions Act (Alberta).

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining overall health. Dr. Gauf 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.