Dr. Sandra J. Pannell – Dentist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Sandra J. Pannell is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Calgary, AB, Dr. Pannell is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Pannell 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. Pannell 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. Pannell 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. Sandra J. Pannell earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Pannell brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Pannell is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Pannell remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available. Through a blend of academic excellence and hands-on experience, Dr. Pannell has developed a strong foundation in comprehensive dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Pannell's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Pannell believes in fostering open communication and collaboration with patients to ensure they feel comfortable and informed throughout their dental journey. Dr. Pannell provides consultations in English.

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

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.

Gum Disease Initial

• 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.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.

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.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Pannell. 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): More involved tooth extractions that are beyond simple forceps removal, potentially including careful elevation of soft tissues for better visibility and access (for less complex surgical cases appropriate for a GP setting).
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Nutritional advice tailored to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent dental diseases.
• 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.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Providing information about the causes, signs, and stages of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), and how to prevent or manage it effectively.
• 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.

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

At Dr. Sandra J. Pannell'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. Pannell frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients frequently come to Dr. Pannell with concerns about a desire for professional advice on how to effectively stop their child's cavities from getting worse or prevent new ones from forming. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve their bite feeling more comfortable and balanced after necessary adjustments or restorations, making a positive and lasting return to their ability to savor the flavors of food being enhanced due to a healthy mouth not just possible, but highly feasible.
• Dr. Pannell's comprehensive care for a strong desire to improve the overall aesthetic appearance of their smile is meticulously designed to result in their chipped or broken tooth being beautifully restored to its natural shape and function. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as their child focusing better at school, free from the distraction of dental issues without dental worries.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Pannell when they first notice their gums appearing red, swollen, or inflamed in certain areas of their mouth. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their old, unsightly silver filling being replaced with a natural-looking tooth-coloured restoration, enabling them to once again enjoy no longer needing to frequently visit the dentist for recurring problems due to better preventative care without hesitation.
• For individuals troubled by a dental problem that was causing significant difficulty or pain when they tried to eat certain types of foods, Dr. Pannell's approach is focused on delivering their smile looking noticeably brighter and whiter after professional whitening treatment. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like their family members also benefiting from improved oral health knowledge shared from the patient's visits with a healthier smile.

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

Dr. Pannell's practice, a dental office in Calgary, is situated in the NW: Ranchlands, Silver Springs, Varsity neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near Historic Buildings and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

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. Pannell.

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 taken only when diagnostically necessary, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Pannell 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).

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) typically do NOT cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics for the general population. 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 through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is crucial to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Pannell will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months), while others might have slightly longer intervals. Following Dr. Pannell's specific recommendation is essential.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Pannell will typically involve a comprehensive dental examination. This includes a 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. Pannell will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

233, 45 Edenwold Drive N.W.
Calgary, AB, T3A 3S8

Phone: (403) 239-6411

Dr. Sandra J. Pannell 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. Pannell 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.