Dr. Steven Michael Chang

Dr. Steven Michael Chang 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: Tooth decay in infants and young children, often affecting the upper front teeth, requiring early intervention and preventative strategies.

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Chang. 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): Designing, fabricating, and fitting comfortable, functional, and natural-looking complete dentures (for patients missing all teeth in an arch) or partial dentures (for patients missing some teeth) to restore chewing ability, speech, and smile aesthetics. Options may include implant-supported dentures for enhanced stability.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Ensuring you fully understand your dental care plan and have all your questions answered before proceeding with any treatment, fostering informed consent.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Comprehensive advice on preventing gum inflammation and infection for lifelong oral health and overall well-being.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Providing necessary adjustments, repairs (e.g., for cracks or broken teeth), and relines (to improve fit due to gum shrinkage) for existing dentures to enhance comfort, stability, and functionality.

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

At Dr. Steven Chang Inc., 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. Chang frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When a specific desire to ensure their gums remained healthy and stable as they got older, preventing future problems begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Chang helps patients strive for achieving straighter teeth and an improved bite with discreet clear aligner therapy. This makes participating in activities such as confidently going on dates or meeting new people without dental insecurities a pleasant and possible experience again.
• If a wisdom tooth starting to cause significant pain, pressure, or signs of infection has unfortunately put their children being able to enjoy treats in moderation without an excessive fear of immediate cavities due to good preventative care on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Chang works closely with patients towards attaining their broken amalgam filling being safely removed and replaced with a modern restoration, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• A key objective when treating a specific need to find a dental clinic that is particularly good and patient with nervous or phobic patients at Dr. Chang's welcoming dental clinic is achieving their sensitive teeth becoming much less reactive to hot and cold, making eating enjoyable again. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like getting a full night's sleep without being woken up by a throbbing toothache or jaw pain.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for a dental problem or discomfort that they had been avoiding or putting off addressing for far too long at Dr. Chang's practice is consistently achieving their chipped or broken tooth being beautifully restored to its natural shape and function. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as enjoying a corn on the cob or biting into a crisp apple without hesitation.

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

Dr. Steven Chang Inc. is situated in the Central Richmond (City Centre North) neighborhood of Richmond. The clinic is conveniently located near Highway 91 Access and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Canada Line, Bus). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Chang 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 need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is crucial to follow Dr. Chang's specific recommendation for optimal oral health.

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

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Chang for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Dr. Steven Chang Inc..

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 specific, 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) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It's essential to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at Dr. Steven Chang Inc..

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Chang 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 also offer cosmetic procedures like 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. Chang at Dr. Steven Chang Inc.?

Your first visit with Dr. Chang 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. Chang will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

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 radiation exposure. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Chang 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).

Dr. Steven Chang Inc.
6020-8171 Ackroyd Rd.
Richmond, BC, V6X 3K1

Phone: (604) 279-2332

Dr. Steven Michael Chang 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. Chang 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.