Dr. Terence Matthew Chan – Dentist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Terence Matthew Chan is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Chan is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Chan 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. Chan 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. Chan 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 the clinic.

Dr. Terence Matthew Chan earned a Dental Degree. With over 32 years of practice since 1993, Dr. Chan has accumulated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Chan is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Chan remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technology, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatment options available.

Key aspects of Dr. Chan's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Chan provides consultations in English.

Dr. Terence Matthew Chan 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): 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.

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.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

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

• Tooth-Coloured Fillings (Composite Resin): Aesthetic and functional restoration of decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth using modern tooth-coloured filling materials.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Professional hygiene treatments to keep your oral health in optimal condition and prevent future dental problems.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Performing root canal therapy on infected or irreversibly inflamed tooth pulp (nerve), typically for anterior (front) teeth and premolars in uncomplicated cases, to save the natural tooth from extraction and relieve pain or infection.
• Fluoride Treatments: Strengthening tooth surfaces with fluoride to make them more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Routine removal of teeth that are severely decayed, extensively damaged beyond restoration, very mobile due to advanced gum disease, or for orthodontic purposes, performed under local anesthesia when the tooth is fully erupted and easily accessible.

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

At Dr. Terence Matthew Chan'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. Chan frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• If needing practical advice and guidance on how to properly care for their toddler's newly erupted first teeth is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Chan develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at feeling a renewed sense of confidence in their smile and overall appearance. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy easily maintaining their daily oral hygiene routine without experiencing bleeding or pain.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of looking for a new family dentist who could provide comprehensive care for all members of their family, from children to adults, Dr. Chan offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach achieving their dream smile through a well-planned and executed smile makeover. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of their child understanding the importance of regular dental check-ups for a lifetime of health.
• Dr. Chan provides dedicated support for patients going through a dental problem that was causing significant difficulty or pain when they tried to eat certain types of foods, always aiming for positive outcomes like a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as feeling relief from chronic headaches that were linked to their TMJ or bruxism.
• When an urgent need to replace a recently lost front tooth before other teeth started to shift or their appearance was significantly affected starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to no longer having to 'guard' a sensitive tooth when eating or drinking, Dr. Chan and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their persistent bad breath being eliminated after addressing the underlying dental cause and a return to comfort and confidence.

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

Dr. Chan's practice is a dental office in Vancouver, situated in the Champlain Heights, South Vancouver East neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near 'The Drive' Neighbourhood and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

In British Columbia, provincial health plans such as the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically do <strong>not</strong> cover most routine or major dental procedures provided in private dental clinics. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting <em>might</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance plans (often provided by employers), or through government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, or social assistance recipients). It is crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to check your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before treatment.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, particularly modern digital X-rays that use minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are only taken when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Chan will determine the frequency based on your individual needs, risk factors, and dental history, following guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

Your first visit will include a comprehensive examination: 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. Chan will discuss findings, address concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed or scheduled.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Chan provides primary dental care for all ages. Services include 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 gum disease management, and possibly cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for complex needs.

What are the most effective ways to prevent cavities (tooth decay)?

To prevent cavities, maintain excellent oral hygiene: brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Eat a balanced diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods/drinks, especially between meals. Regular check-ups and professional cleanings with Dr. Chan are essential for early detection and prevention. Dr. Chan may also recommend sealants or fluoride treatments.

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

No referral is typically needed to see a general dentist. You can contact the clinic directly to schedule an appointment with Dr. Chan.

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

Generally, every 6 months is recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Chan will personalize your schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions (e.g., those with active gum disease or high caries risk might need more frequent visits). Follow Dr. Chan's specific recommendations.

150 - 3150 E 54th Ave
Vancouver, BC, V5S 1Z1

Phone: (604) 433-6800

Dr. Terence Matthew Chan 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. Chan 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.