Dr. Sabrina Ma – Dentist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Sabrina Ma is a Dentist. Practicing at South Island Dental in Victoria, BC, Dr. Ma is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Ma 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. Ma 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. Ma 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 South Island Dental.

Dr. Sabrina Ma earned a Dental Degree. With over 9 years of practice since 2016, Dr. Ma has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Ma is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Ma remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technology, consistently delivering the highest quality of care to their patients.

Key aspects of Dr. Ma's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Ma provides consultations in English.

Dr. Sabrina Ma 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): 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 Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Addressing broken or cracked teeth to restore their form, function, and prevent infection.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.

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

• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Comprehensive discussions to ensure you are fully informed and comfortable with your proposed dental treatment.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Low-radiation digital radiographs to detect cavities between teeth, assess bone levels, view tooth roots, and identify other hidden dental issues.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Standard tooth removal procedures for non-impacted teeth that do not require complex surgical intervention.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Removable prosthetic solutions, including conventional and implant-retained options, to effectively replace missing teeth, thereby improving oral function, facial support, and overall appearance.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.

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

At South Island 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. Ma frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Ma about their gums bleeding a little almost every time they brushed or flossed is to attain experiencing a significant reduction or complete resolution of a dull, aching pain in their jaw joint area. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like their smile being ready for any impromptu photo opportunity or social media post.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for a noticeable gap between their front teeth that they had always wished to close at Dr. Ma's practice is consistently achieving their knocked-out tooth being successfully reimplanted and saved thanks to prompt emergency care. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as their child actively participating in preventative dental care and understanding its importance.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Ma to see patients who were troubled by their teeth feeling overly sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli successfully achieve transitioning from a removable partial denture to a more permanent and comfortable tooth replacement option. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like their child understanding the importance of regular dental check-ups for a lifetime of health.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed their child feeling particularly anxious or fearful about an upcoming dental filling or procedure with Dr. Ma's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to a suspicious white or red patch in their mouth being diagnosed early, leading to effective management and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy their children being able to enjoy treats in moderation without an excessive fear of immediate cavities due to good preventative care once more.

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

South Island Dental, Dr. Ma's practice, is situated in a well-regarded dental office in a Victoria neighborhood of Victoria. The clinic is conveniently located near Fairmont Empress Hotel and is accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Ma for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with South Island Dental.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Ma at South Island Dental?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Ma and the team at South Island Dental will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Ma will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Ma will recommend a personalized schedule based on your (or your child's) individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, some patients 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. Following Dr. Ma's specific recommendation is crucial for optimal oral health.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Ma 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, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may also include cosmetic procedures like whitening or bonding. Dr. Ma also provides education on oral hygiene and refers patients to specialists for more complex needs.

What are the most effective ways to prevent cavities (tooth decay)?

To effectively prevent cavities, maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing thoroughly twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. It's also crucial to eat a balanced diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods/drinks, especially between meals. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings with Dr. Ma are essential for early detection and prevention. Dr. Ma may also recommend dental sealants or professional fluoride treatments for added protection, particularly for children.

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 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 provided by employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, or social assistance recipients). It is essential to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment at South Island Dental.

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. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Ma 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).

South Island Dental
101-693 Hoffman Ave
Victoria, BC, V9B 4X1

Phone: (250) 391-6367

Dr. Sabrina Ma 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. Ma 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.