Dr. Sandy Yeung-Yan Ko – Dentist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Sandy Yeung-Yan Ko is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Ko is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Ko 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. Ko 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. Ko 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. Sandy Yeung-Yan Ko earned a Dental Degree. With over 35 years of practice since 1990, Dr. Ko has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Ko is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment to professional development ensures that Dr. Ko remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Ko's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; 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. Dr. Ko is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Cantonese.

Dr. Sandy Yeung-Yan Ko provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.
• 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.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Managing cavities in baby teeth to prevent pain, infection, and ensure proper development of permanent teeth.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Persistent unpleasant breath odor often linked to oral hygiene issues, gum disease, dry mouth, or other dental conditions.

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

• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Treatment involving the removal of infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, thorough cleaning and shaping of the root canal system, and sealing it to prevent reinfection, often for less complex endodontic cases.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.
• 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.

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

At Dr. Sandy Yeung-Yan Ko'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. Ko frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Effectively addressing an impacted tooth (often a wisdom tooth) that their previous dentist had mentioned might require monitoring or future attention with Dr. Ko's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of their lost filling or crown being promptly and durably replaced, protecting the tooth, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in enjoying a corn on the cob or biting into a crisp apple without hesitation and social interactions.
• When patients discuss 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. Ko outlines a path to receiving a definitive diagnosis for an unusual growth or spot in their mouth, leading to appropriate action, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably sleeping peacefully without the interruption of dental pain or discomfort from oral appliances.
• Patients presenting with their gums appearing red, swollen, or inflamed in certain areas of their mouth can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of feeling significantly more relaxed and calm during dental visits due to effective anxiety management strategies or sedation under Dr. Ko's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume resuming hobbies that require concentration, now free from dental pain without the former limitations or discomfort.
• If their child needing preventative dental sealants applied to their newly erupted permanent molars to protect against cavities has unfortunately put their overall facial aesthetics being enhanced by well-planned dental and/or facial esthetic treatments on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Ko works closely with patients towards attaining a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.

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

Dr. Ko's practice is a dental office located in the Victoria-Fraserview, Killarney West neighbourhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near the Commercial Corridor and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Ko 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. Ko at the clinic?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Ko and the team at the clinic 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. Ko 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. Ko for a check-up and cleaning?

For most adults and children, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Ko will recommend a personalized schedule based on your 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 oral health might have slightly longer intervals. Following Dr. Ko's specific recommendation is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health.

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

In British Columbia, the provincial health plan (MSP) typically does 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 by MSP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients, 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 is essential to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance plan before starting 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 necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Ko 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).

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Ko is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages. They offer a wide range of services including 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 offer cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). General dentists also provide education on oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists when more complex care is needed.

6977 Victoria Dr
Vancouver, BC, V5P 3Y7

Phone: (604) 324-3988

Dr. Sandy Yeung-Yan Ko 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. Ko 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.