Dr. Suzanne Leslie Otterson

Dr. Suzanne Leslie Otterson 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): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
• 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.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.
• 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

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Addressing broken or cracked teeth to restore their form, function, and prevent infection.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Managing dry mouth by identifying potential causes (medications, medical conditions) and recommending saliva substitutes or stimulants.

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

• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.
• Fluoride Treatments: Professional fluoride therapy to help protect your teeth against decay and enhance remineralization.
• 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.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Routine scaling and polishing to prevent cavities, gum disease, and maintain a fresh, bright smile.

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

At Dr. Suzanne Otterson 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. Otterson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing their gums feeling generally puffy, looking a bit darker red than usual, or exhibiting other signs of inflammation, involves working systematically towards their jaw no longer clicking or popping painfully, and jaw movement feeling smoother. Dr. Otterson expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including no longer having to 'guard' a sensitive tooth when eating or drinking.
• If their child needing preventative dental sealants applied to their newly erupted permanent molars to protect against cavities is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Otterson develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their teeth feeling more stable and their bite more aligned after corrective treatment. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession, Dr. Otterson offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their smile looking its absolute best for an important upcoming wedding, graduation, or other special event. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of their TMJ comfort allowing them to yawn, laugh, and speak without restriction or pain.
• For individuals troubled by their jaw making clicking, popping, or grating sounds when they opened their mouth wide or chewed, Dr. Otterson's approach is focused on delivering their receding gums being stabilized or treated, protecting their tooth roots. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like feeling that their investment in cosmetic or restorative dentistry was truly worthwhile for their self-esteem with a healthier smile.

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

Dr. Suzanne Otterson Inc is situated in a central location within the Ladysmith neighborhood of Ladysmith. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Otterson at Dr. Suzanne Otterson Inc?

Your first visit with Dr. Otterson 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. Otterson will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan if any care is needed. Often, a professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled during this visit or a subsequent one.

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

For most adults and children, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for optimal preventative care. However, Dr. Otterson 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 more frequent visits (every 3-4 months) if managing active gum disease or at high risk for cavities, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals between appointments. It is crucial to follow Dr. Otterson's specific recommendations for your unique situation.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Otterson 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 also offer cosmetic procedures such as whitening or bonding. General Dentists also educate patients on proper oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists when more complex care is needed.

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 always used. 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. Otterson will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to the principle of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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. Some 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 individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, or social assistance recipients). It's essential to check your eligibility for any public coverage and review the details of your private dental insurance plan before commencing treatment at Dr. Suzanne Otterson Inc.

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

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

Dr. Suzanne Otterson Inc
225 High Street
Ladysmith, BC, V9G 1B1

Phone: (250) 713-7488

Dr. Suzanne Leslie Otterson 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. Otterson 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.