Dr. Scott W. Van Dam – Dentist | Medicine Hat, AB

Dr. Scott W. Van Dam is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at a dentist practice in Medicine Hat, AB, Dr. Van Dam is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Van Dam 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. Van Dam 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. Van Dam 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. Dr. Van Dam 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. Scott W. Van Dam earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Van Dam brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Van Dam offers a broad range of dental services and has particular interests and developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. Dr. Van Dam is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Van Dam's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Van Dam provides consultations in English.

Dr. Scott W. Van Dam 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: Tooth decay in infants and young children, often affecting the upper front teeth, requiring early intervention and preventative strategies.
• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Children with significant systemic health conditions (e.g., organ transplants, cancer, uncontrolled diabetes) who require careful dental management and coordination with their medical specialists to prevent oral complications and ensure dental treatments are performed safely.
• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Customized dental approaches to accommodate children with diverse health backgrounds, sensory sensitivities, and varying levels of cooperation, ensuring they receive optimal oral healthcare in a supportive and appropriately adapted setting.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
• 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.

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

• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Utilizing advanced digital X-ray technology (e.g., bitewings, periapicals, panoramic X-rays) for safe and precise diagnosis of dental conditions.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Vigilant screening for oral cancer, a critical component of maintaining your overall health.
• 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.
• Fluoride Treatments: Professional fluoride therapy to help protect your teeth against decay and enhance remineralization.
• Oral Conscious Sedation (Anxiolysis): Prescribing specific oral sedative medication (e.g., a benzodiazepine) to be taken shortly before dental appointments to induce a state of conscious relaxation and significantly reduce anxiety for patients undergoing more extensive, lengthy, or potentially stressful procedures.

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

At Dr. Scott W. Van Dam'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. Van Dam frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When patients discuss their child's prolonged thumb-sucking habit and concerns about its impact on their teeth and jaw development, Dr. Van Dam outlines a path to their teeth and gums feeling exceptionally clean and healthy after a necessary deep cleaning procedure, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably no longer having to worry about a loose crown or bridge when they are out.
• When having chipped a tooth unexpectedly while eating something hard begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Van Dam helps patients strive for their toothache being completely resolved, allowing them to eat and sleep comfortably again. This makes participating in activities such as feeling refreshed and confident with consistently fresh breath throughout the day a pleasant and possible experience again.
• If waking up frequently with a sore jaw, facial muscle tenderness, or tension headaches, possibly from teeth grinding has unfortunately put their ability to taste and appreciate food fully, unmarred by dental pain or infection on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Van Dam 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.
• Patients experiencing noticing their gums seemed to be receding or pulling away from their teeth, making teeth look longer often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Van Dam's practice, a key objective is their receding gums being stabilized or treated, protecting their tooth roots, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in no longer needing to frequently visit the dentist for recurring problems due to better preventative care.

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

Dr. Van Dam's practice, a dental office in Medicine Hat, is situated in the Downtown Medicine Hat, SE Hill, River Flats neighborhood of Medicine Hat. The clinic is conveniently located near Medicine Hat College and is accessible via Medicine Hat Transit. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for 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) 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 provided by employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). It's crucial to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check your private dental insurance details regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Van Dam 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. Some patients may require more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months) while others might have slightly longer intervals. Following Dr. Van Dam's specific recommendation is essential for optimal oral health.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Van Dam and the team 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, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Van Dam will then explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

Does our clinic offer direct billing to dental insurance companies (assignment of benefits)?

While we do not offer direct billing to insurance companies at this time (meaning payment in full is due at the time of service), we will provide you with all the necessary standardized dental claim forms and detailed official receipts. You can then easily submit these to your dental insurance provider for prompt reimbursement according to your policy terms and coverage. Our administrative team is happy to assist you with understanding the forms if needed.

I'm very anxious about dental visits. Does Dr. Van Dam offer any sedation options?

Yes, Dr. Van Dam understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, our clinic offers various sedation options, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral conscious sedation. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Van Dam during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

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. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Van Dam 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).

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

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

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Van Dam is the primary dental care provider, offering a wide range of services including preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

#100, 2800 - 13 Avenue S.E.
Medicine Hat, AB, T1A 3P9

Phone: (403) 548-0028

Dr. Scott W. Van Dam 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. Van Dam 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.