Dr. Shima Khalaj – Dentist | West Vancouver, BC

Dr. Shima Khalaj is a Dentist. Practicing at Dr Falsafi Inc./ Bel Canto Dental in West Vancouver, BC, Dr. Khalaj is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Khalaj 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. Khalaj 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. Khalaj 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 Dr Falsafi Inc./ Bel Canto Dental.

Dr. Shima Khalaj earned a Dental Degree. With over 3 years of practice since 2022, Dr. Khalaj has gained valuable clinical experience. Dr. Khalaj is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Khalaj remains at the forefront of advancements in dental technology and techniques, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatments available.

Key aspects of Dr. Khalaj'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. Khalaj is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Persian.

Dr. Shima Khalaj 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

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.
• 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.

Common Dental Issues

• 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.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.

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

• 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.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Providing guidance on how dietary choices impact oral health, including advice on reducing sugary food/drink intake and promoting tooth-friendly nutrition.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Metal-free white fillings to restore tooth structure, function, and maintain a natural, healthy-looking smile.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.

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

At Dr Falsafi Inc./ Bel Canto Dental, 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. Khalaj frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Are you struggling with needing a custom-fitted mouthguard for playing sports to properly protect their teeth and jaw from injury? Dr. Khalaj partners with patients to target a previously 'high' or uncomfortable dental filling being perfectly adjusted, restoring a comfortable and even bite, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as their child understanding the importance of regular dental check-ups for a lifetime of health a much more achievable reality.
• Effectively addressing feeling self-conscious about the stained or yellowish appearance of their teeth with Dr. Khalaj's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of a suspicious white or red patch in their mouth being diagnosed early, leading to effective management, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in speaking clearly and confidently in professional meetings or social gatherings and social interactions.
• Understanding the frustration feeling like their jaw was often stiff, sore, or difficult to move freely, especially upon waking in the morning can cause, Dr. Khalaj tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their bite feeling more comfortable and balanced after necessary adjustments or restorations, allowing for renewed participation in activities like their child being excited to show off their newly sealed or filled tooth to friends.
• Patients experiencing a noticeable gap between their front teeth that they had always wished to close often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Khalaj's practice, a key objective is experiencing complete relief from pain when biting down on a previously problematic tooth, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in their smile being a positive asset in their personal and professional life.

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

Dr. Khalaj's practice, Dr Falsafi Inc./ Bel Canto Dental, is situated in the Caulfeild, Eagle Harbour neighborhood of West Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal and is accessible via TransLink (BlueBus - operated by West Vancouver). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

For most adults and children, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Khalaj will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, some patients may require more frequent visits (every 3-4 months) if they are managing active gum disease or have a high risk of cavities, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between appointments. It is crucial to follow Dr. Khalaj's specific recommendations for your optimal oral health.

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

Dr. Khalaj focuses on comprehensive general dentistry for overall oral health. While many restorative procedures also have excellent aesthetic outcomes, if you have specific advanced cosmetic concerns, they can discuss basic aesthetic improvements available or provide a referral to a dentist specializing in cosmetic procedures or a prosthodontist if more advanced treatment is desired.

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

In British Columbia, provincial health plans like the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically do not cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics for the general population. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered under MSP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers). Government assistance programs may also cover dental care for eligible groups, such as children from low-income families or seniors on specific benefits. It's essential to verify your eligibility for any potential public coverage and to check the details of your private dental insurance (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before starting treatment at Dr Falsafi Inc./ Bel Canto Dental.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Khalaj at Dr Falsafi Inc./ Bel Canto Dental?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Khalaj and the team at Dr Falsafi Inc./ Bel Canto Dental 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. Khalaj will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Khalaj 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, dental sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may offer some cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or bonding. They also provide education on oral hygiene and refer patients 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 to further minimize exposure. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Khalaj 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. Khalaj?

Typically, no referral is needed to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Dr Falsafi Inc./ Bel Canto Dental directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Khalaj.

Dr Falsafi Inc./ Bel Canto Dental
1892 Marine Drive
West Vancouver, BC, V7V 1J6

Phone: (604) 926-7621

Dr. Shima Khalaj 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. Khalaj 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.