Dr. Sheldon Dwight Barkman – Dentist | Vernon, BC

Dr. Sheldon Dwight Barkman is a Dentist. Practicing at Barkman Dental Studio in Vernon, BC, Dr. Barkman is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Barkman 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. Barkman 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. Barkman 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 Barkman Dental Studio.

Dr. Sheldon Dwight Barkman earned a Dental Degree. With over 8 years of practice since 2017, Dr. Barkman has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Barkman is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Barkman 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. Barkman's dental practice philosophy include: providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Barkman provides consultations in English.

Dr. Sheldon Dwight Barkman 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

• 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): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

Common Dental Issues

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.
• 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: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.
• 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: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.

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

• 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.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Personalized protective oral appliances, including athletic guards for impact protection and night guards to alleviate TMJ stress and prevent tooth wear.
• 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 Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Guidance on the best tools and methods for cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly to prevent dental problems.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Saving natural teeth from extraction by treating the inner pulp tissue, commonly for straightforward root canal procedures on teeth with predictable anatomy.

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

At Barkman Dental Studio, 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. Barkman frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Numerous patients have successfully addressed needing a completely new set of dentures because their old ones were very worn out, ill-fitting, and no longer functional with Dr. Barkman's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to their broken amalgam filling being safely removed and replaced with a modern restoration and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy their child being free of dental infections that could affect their overall health and school attendance once more.
• Managing their smile not looking as bright, white, or vibrant as it used to, prompting interest in whitening effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Barkman and the dental team. The clear aim is always a single discolored tooth being aesthetically restored to match the rest of their smile, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• A key objective when treating a desire to ensure their current oral hygiene routine at home was truly effective and optimal at Dr. Barkman's welcoming dental clinic is achieving their previously dark, non-vital tooth being internally bleached or restored to a natural shade. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like waking up feeling refreshed, without jaw soreness or tension from nighttime grinding.
• Understanding the frustration a specific desire to ensure their gums remained healthy and stable as they got older, preventing future problems can cause, Dr. Barkman tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their child with special healthcare needs successfully and calmly completing necessary dental treatment in a supportive environment, allowing for renewed participation in activities like their smile being ready for any impromptu photo opportunity or social media post.

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

Barkman Dental Studio is situated in the Central Vernon, Downtown neighborhood of Vernon. The clinic is conveniently located near Village Green Shopping Centre and is accessible via Vernon Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

In British Columbia, provincial health plans such as the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically do <strong>not</strong> cover routine or major dental procedures provided in private dental clinics for the general public. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting <em>might</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance (often employer-sponsored), or government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., low-income families with children, seniors on specific benefits, or social assistance recipients). It is crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-pays, deductibles, annual maximums) before treatment at Barkman Dental Studio.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Barkman 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 (such as whitening or bonding). They also provide education on oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists for more complex needs.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Barkman at Barkman Dental Studio?

At your first appointment, Dr. Barkman and the team will get to know you and your oral health history. You'll complete a medical history form, discuss any dental concerns or goals, and undergo a thorough oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Barkman will then explain their findings and recommend any necessary treatments. This is a great opportunity to ask questions.

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 only taken when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Barkman will determine the frequency based on your individual needs, risk factors, and dental history, following guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings are recommended every 6 months for preventative care. However, Dr. Barkman will personalize the schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors (for cavities or gum disease), and existing conditions (e.g., patients with active gum disease or high caries risk may need more frequent visits). Always follow Dr. Barkman's specific recommendations.

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

No, a referral is generally not needed to see a general dentist like Dr. Barkman for check-ups, cleanings, or consultations. You can book an appointment directly with Barkman Dental Studio.

Barkman Dental Studio
204-3210 25 Ave
Vernon, BC, V1T 1P1

Phone: (250) 558-5005

Dr. Sheldon Dwight Barkman 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. Barkman 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.