Dr. Steven K. Patterson

Dr. Steven K. Patterson 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

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.
• 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.

Common Dental Issues

• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Tooth decay in infants and young children, often affecting the upper front teeth, requiring early intervention and preventative strategies.

Dental Pain Emergency

• 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.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.

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

• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Intraoral camera technology to allow you to see what your dentist sees, facilitating better understanding of your oral health.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Empowering patients with the skills and knowledge needed for effective daily oral care routines.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Nutritional advice tailored to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent dental diseases.
• Dental Crowns (Caps): Full-coverage restorations crafted from materials like porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or gold to encase and reinforce a compromised tooth for long-term durability.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Utilizing advanced digital X-ray technology (e.g., bitewings, periapicals, panoramic X-rays) for safe and precise diagnosis of dental conditions.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Patterson. 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. Steven K. Patterson adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in AB and standards of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

At Dr. Steven K. Patterson'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. Patterson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• With Dr. Patterson's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing needing a custom-fitted mouthguard for playing sports to properly protect their teeth and jaw from injury is focused on achieving their recurrent canker sores becoming less frequent or less severe with management strategies. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to enjoying the sensation of a clean, healthy mouth after every meal and hygiene routine without dental concerns.
• Many people seek Dr. Patterson's professional help and expertise when dealing with wondering if their child might need braces or orthodontic assessment for crooked teeth. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently feeling well-equipped with advice on how to care for their toddler's developing teeth, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to no longer having to worry about a loose crown or bridge when they are out.
• Overcoming or effectively managing an old dental crown that needed to be replaced because it was visibly worn, chipped, poorly fitting, or had decay underneath is a common journey for patients under Dr. Patterson's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling their child calmly receiving dental injections due to a patient and skilled approach, so that daily routines and pleasures like passing on good oral hygiene habits and a positive attitude towards dental care to their children become straightforward again.
• Dr. Patterson expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of a specific tooth that had become very sensitive to sweet foods or drinks, which was a new symptom for them. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their bite feeling more comfortable and balanced after necessary adjustments or restorations, means they can happily and comfortably get back to participating actively in sports without fear of dental injury, especially with a custom mouthguard.

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

Dr. Patterson's practice, a dental office in Wetaskiwin, is situated in a central location within the Wetaskiwin neighborhood of Wetaskiwin. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Patterson is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services. These include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, dental sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may also offer 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 only taken when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Patterson 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. Patterson at the clinic?

Your first visit with Dr. Patterson 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. Patterson will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if 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. Patterson?

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact the clinic directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Patterson.

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Patterson will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need visits every 3-4 months, while others might have slightly longer intervals. It's crucial to follow Dr. Patterson's specific recommendation.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

In Alberta, provincial health plans like AHCIP typically do NOT cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics. 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 provided by 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 coverage details and verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for before starting treatment.

115 Mountain Ash Drive
Wetaskiwin, AB, T9A 2T4

Phone: (780) 492-8240

Dr. Steven K. Patterson is a licensed Dentist in AB, regulated by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) under the Health Professions Act (Alberta).

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA).

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining overall health. Dr. Patterson 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.