Dr. Serena Shuk-Lan Lau – Dentist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Serena Shuk-Lan Lau is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Lau is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Lau 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. Lau 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. Lau 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. Serena Shuk-Lan Lau earned a Dental Degree. With over 32 years of practice since 1993, Dr. Lau has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Lau is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment to professional development ensures Dr. Lau remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technology, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Lau's dental practice philosophy include: 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. Lau is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Cantonese.

Dr. Serena Shuk-Lan Lau provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Seeking regular preventative care to maintain oral health, even in the absence of specific problems.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.

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): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.

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): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.

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

• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
• Fluoride Treatments: Application of topical fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel, prevent demineralization, and reduce the risk of cavities, especially for children and at-risk adults.
• Dental Sealants: A simple and effective preventative measure to reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Durable and precisely fitting partial crowns designed to preserve more natural tooth structure while effectively repairing significant decay or fractures on the chewing surfaces.

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

At Dr. Serena Shuk-Lan Lau'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. Lau frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For those affected by noticing a concerning dark spot on one of their teeth, possibly a cavity, Dr. Lau provides solutions that lead to their gums appearing consistently healthy, pink, and firm, without any signs of puffiness or inflammation. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion.
• Effectively addressing their child's prolonged thumb-sucking habit and concerns about its impact on their teeth and jaw development with Dr. Lau's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of experiencing relief from the discomfort of persistent dry mouth with effective management strategies, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in no longer having to worry about a loose crown or bridge when they are out and social interactions.
• Are you struggling with their gums feeling generally puffy, looking a bit darker red than usual, or exhibiting other signs of inflammation? Dr. Lau partners with patients to target receiving clear dental clearance before a major medical procedure, ensuring their overall health is prioritized, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as their smile reflecting their inner happiness and confidence a much more achievable reality.
• Dr. Lau expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of a desire to ensure their current oral hygiene routine at home was truly effective and optimal. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by a previously 'high' or uncomfortable dental filling being perfectly adjusted, restoring a comfortable and even bite, means they can happily and comfortably get back to feeling more outgoing and engaging in conversations more readily.

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

Dr. Lau's practice, a dental office in Vancouver, is situated in the Riley Park-Little Mountain East neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Shopping & Dining Districts 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.

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

Dr. Lau and our team at the clinic are committed to making your dental experience as comfortable as possible. While we may not offer extensive sedation options in-house, please discuss any anxieties you have with Dr. Lau. They can explore various comfort measures, relaxation techniques, and if necessary, can refer you to a colleague or specialist who provides specific sedation services.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Lau is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, 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). Dr. Lau also educates patients on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs.

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 between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Lau 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 should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Lau at the clinic?

Your first visit with Dr. Lau 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. Lau will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if any care is needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

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

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. Lau.

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

In BC, provincial health plans (like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC) 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). Always check your private dental insurance details and verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for before starting treatment.

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

Generally, every 6 months for most patients is recommended for preventative care. Dr. Lau will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months). Follow Dr. Lau's specific recommendation.

3333 Fraser St
Vancouver, BC, V5V 4C2

Phone: (604) 321-7120

Dr. Serena Shuk-Lan Lau 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. Lau 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.