Dr. Shelley Anne Bedard – Dentist | Penticton, BC

Dr. Shelley Anne Bedard is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Penticton, BC, Dr. Bedard is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Bedard 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. Bedard 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. Bedard 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. Shelley Anne Bedard earned a Dental Degree. With over 28 years of practice since 1997, Dr. Bedard has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Bedard is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most current and effective treatments available, reflecting Dr. Bedard's ongoing pursuit of professional excellence and dedication to patient well-being.

Key aspects of Dr. Bedard's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Bedard is fluent in English and also offers consultations in French.

Dr. Shelley Anne Bedard 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

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Emergency management of traumatic dental injuries to maximize the chances of successful reimplantation or repair.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.

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): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.

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

• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Fixed prosthetic solutions designed to effectively fill the gap left by missing teeth, thereby improving chewing ability, speech, and overall smile appearance.
• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Custom-fabricated porcelain or composite resin inlays (fitting precisely within the tooth cusps) and onlays (covering one or more cusps) to restore moderately damaged teeth while preserving maximum healthy tooth structure.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Comprehensive advice on preventing gum inflammation and infection for lifelong oral health and overall well-being.

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

At Dr. Shelley Anne Bedard'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. Bedard frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Overcoming or effectively managing their child needing preventative dental sealants applied to their newly erupted permanent molars to protect against cavities is a common journey for patients under Dr. Bedard's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling their previously sensitive exposed tooth roots being protected and desensitized, so that daily routines and pleasures like playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort become straightforward again.
• Dr. Bedard understands that dealing with a tooth that suddenly felt rough, had a sharp or jagged edge, or was causing irritation can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving their knocked-out tooth being successfully reimplanted and saved thanks to prompt emergency care, helping patients comfortably get back to their child being excited to show off their newly sealed or filled tooth to friends and feeling their best.
• Managing their child frequently complaining of a sore tooth or dental discomfort effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Bedard and the dental team. The clear aim is always no longer experiencing annoying food impaction between their teeth after restorative treatment, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying their child being free of dental infections that could affect their overall health and school attendance and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• For individuals troubled by feeling self-conscious about the stained or yellowish appearance of their teeth, Dr. Bedard's approach is focused on delivering a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like enjoying the peace of mind that comes with a healthy, well-maintained mouth with a healthier smile.

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

Dr. Bedard's practice, a dental office in Penticton, is situated in the Penticton Central, South End, Kaledon, Okanagan Falls, Naramata Bench (Rural South) neighborhood of Penticton. The clinic is conveniently located near Channel Parkway and is accessible via South Okanagan-Similkameen Transit System (BC Transit). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Bedard 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. Bedard 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. Bedard?

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. Bedard.

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

In British Columbia, the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically does <strong>not</strong> cover routine dental procedures provided in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting <em>may</em> be covered. Most dental costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before treatment.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, especially modern digital X-rays that use minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are only taken when necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan treatments). Dr. Bedard determines the frequency based on your individual needs, risk factors, and dental history, following guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Bedard provides primary dental care for all ages. Services include 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 gum disease management, and possibly cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists when needed.

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

Generally, check-ups and cleanings are recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Bedard will personalize this schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors, and existing conditions (e.g., more frequent visits may be needed for active gum disease or high caries risk). Follow Dr. Bedard's specific recommendations.

What cosmetic dentistry options might Dr. Bedard offer to improve the appearance of my smile?

Dr. Bedard focuses on comprehensive general dentistry. While many restorative procedures improve aesthetics, for specific cosmetic concerns, they can discuss basic options or refer to a specialist in cosmetic dentistry or a prosthodontist if more advanced treatment is desired.

1348 Main St
Penticton, BC, V2A 5G3

Phone: (250) 492-2666

Dr. Shelley Anne Bedard 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. Bedard 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.