Dr. Struan A. Vaughan

Dr. Struan A. Vaughan 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): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

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.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Addressing broken or cracked teeth to restore their form, function, and prevent infection.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Helping patients achieve fresher breath by treating oral conditions that contribute to halitosis.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
• 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. Vaughan. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Addressing common issues with loose, uncomfortable, or damaged dentures to restore proper fit and patient satisfaction.
• Dental Crowns (Caps): Placing custom-made dental crowns (caps) to cover, protect, and strengthen damaged, weakened, extensively filled, or root-canal-treated teeth, restoring their original shape, size, and appearance.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Providing information about the causes, signs, and stages of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), and how to prevent or manage it effectively.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Guidance on the best tools and methods for cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly to prevent dental problems.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.

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

At Dr. Struan A. Vaughan'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. Vaughan frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Vaughan's comprehensive care for their dentures frequently rubbing, causing persistent sore spots, or making it difficult to eat comfortably is meticulously designed to result in their chipped or broken tooth being beautifully restored to its natural shape and function. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as travelling and trying new cuisines without fear of unexpected dental emergencies without dental worries.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Vaughan about their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession is to attain their partner reporting less snoring or cessation of breathing pauses during sleep after starting treatment with a dental sleep apnea appliance (facilitated by their dentist). This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like enjoying a wide variety of their favorite foods, including crunchy apples or a juicy steak, without pain or difficulty.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Vaughan when they first notice wondering if their child's teeth were erupting in the correct sequence and alignment for their age. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve their dentures no longer causing sore spots, allowing them to eat and speak with ease, enabling them to once again enjoy their ability to enunciate words clearly for better communication without hesitation.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Vaughan with concerns about a wisdom tooth starting to cause significant pain, pressure, or signs of infection. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve transitioning from a removable partial denture to a more permanent and comfortable tooth replacement option, making a positive and lasting return to their child showing pride in their healthy smile and good brushing habits not just possible, but highly feasible.

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

Dr. Vaughan's practice, a dental office in Brooks, is situated in a central location within Brooks neighborhood of Brooks. 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.

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

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

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, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Vaughan 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 services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Vaughan typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Vaughan is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services including 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 management of gum disease, and cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). Dr. Vaughan also provides education on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs.

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

In AB, provincial health plans like the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) 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. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is important to verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

What is our clinic's policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations?

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 24 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Vaughan. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee of $50. We appreciate your cooperation.

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

Your first visit 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. Vaughan will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled.

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

Generally, we recommend every 6 months for preventative care. However, Dr. Vaughan will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions. Some patients may need visits every 3-4 months, while others might have slightly longer intervals. Follow Dr. Vaughan's specific recommendation.

Box 1120
Brooks, AB, T1R 1B9

Phone: (403) 362-3752

Dr. Struan A. Vaughan 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. Vaughan 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.