Dr. Shikha Handa Atreja – Dentist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Shikha Handa Atreja is a Dentist. Practicing at westshore dental centre in Victoria, BC, Dr. Atreja is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Atreja 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. Atreja 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. Atreja 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 westshore dental centre.

Dr. Shikha Handa Atreja earned a Dental Degree. With over 3 years of practice since 2022, Dr. Atreja is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Atreja remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available. Dr. Atreja's professional journey reflects a dedication to both clinical excellence and a commitment to staying current with the latest research and best practices within the field of dentistry.

Key aspects of Dr. Atreja's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Atreja is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Hindi and Punjabi.

Dr. Shikha Handa Atreja 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 Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

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

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.
• 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. Atreja. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• 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.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Vigilant screening for oral cancer, a critical component of maintaining your overall health.

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

At westshore dental centre, 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. Atreja frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Numerous patients have successfully addressed their child needing preventative dental sealants applied to their newly erupted permanent molars to protect against cavities with Dr. Atreja's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism 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.
• If wondering if their child might need braces or orthodontic assessment for crooked teeth is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Atreja develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at a previously 'high' or uncomfortable dental filling being perfectly adjusted, restoring a comfortable and even bite. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy their child being able to participate in classroom activities without dental distractions.
• Are you struggling with a specific tooth that had become very sensitive to sweet foods or drinks, which was a new symptom for them? Dr. Atreja partners with patients to target having a custom-fitted sports mouthguard to protect their smile during athletic activities, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion a much more achievable reality.
• For patients where wanting to learn the best and most effective way to clean around their existing dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances is a primary concern, Dr. Atreja focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in the sore spot or ulcer in their mouth healing completely after diagnosis and treatment. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet.

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

Dr. Atreja's practice, westshore dental centre, is situated in a well-regarded dental office in the Victoria neighborhood of Victoria. The clinic is conveniently located near Royal BC Museum and is accessible via Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact westshore dental centre directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Atreja.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Atreja at westshore dental centre?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Atreja and the team at westshore dental centre 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. Atreja will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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 (Medical Services Plan, or MSP) typically does not cover most routine or major dental procedures provided in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed within a hospital setting may be covered by MSP. The majority of dental care costs are covered either out-of-pocket by the patient, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible individuals and families (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, or social assistance recipients). It is crucial to verify your eligibility for any potential public coverage and to review the specifics of your private dental insurance policy (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before commencing treatment at westshore dental centre.

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 to further minimize any potential exposure. X-rays are only taken when clinically necessary, for instance, for new patients, to detect cavities between teeth, to assess bone health, or to plan complex treatments. Dr. Atreja will determine the appropriate frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Atreja provides primary dental care for patients of all ages. This includes preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, dental sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may also offer cosmetic procedures such as whitening or bonding. They also educate patients on proper oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists when more complex care is needed.

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

For most adults, routine check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Atreja will personalize this recommendation based on your (or your child's) individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any pre-existing conditions. Some individuals may require more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high risk for cavities), while others with excellent long-term oral health may have slightly longer intervals between appointments. Always follow Dr. Atreja's specific advice for your optimal oral health.

westshore dental centre
2945 jacklin rd
Victoria, BC, V9B 5E3

Phone: (825) 439-4376

Dr. Shikha Handa Atreja 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. Atreja 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.