Dr. Thayne D. Blunston – Dentist | Airdrie, AB

Dr. Thayne D. Blunston is a Dentist (Facial Esthetic Injectables). Practicing at a dentist practice in Airdrie, AB, Dr. Blunston is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Blunston is licensed by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in AB. Dr. Blunston 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. Blunston also offers facial esthetic treatments using therapeutic neuromodulators (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin® for bruxism, TMJ pain, or cosmetic enhancement of the upper face such as frown lines and crow's feet) and/or dermal fillers to complement dental aesthetics, address facial harmony, and rejuvenate facial appearance, based on their specific certified training levels. For patient convenience, direct billing to many major dental insurance plans may be available at the clinic. Dr. Blunston provides comprehensive general dental care with various certified levels of sedation (such as nitrous oxide/'laughing gas', oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on specific qualifications) to help anxious patients, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals undergoing extensive procedures feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable throughout their dental treatment. Dr. Blunston serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.

Dr. Thayne D. Blunston earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Blunston brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Blunston offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Facial Esthetic Services (Neuromodulators & Dermal Fillers) and General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. Dr. Blunston is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Blunston remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technologies, allowing them to provide patients with the most effective and comfortable treatment options available.

Key aspects of Dr. Blunston's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Blunston provides consultations in English.

Dr. Thayne D. Blunston provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Tmj Disorders Bruxism

• Teeth Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism) - Day or Night: Addressing the underlying causes and direct consequences of involuntary parafunctional teeth grinding and clenching habits.
• Limited Jaw Opening (Trismus) or Difficulty Chewing Comfortably: Addressing problems with jaw mobility and the ability to perform essential functions like eating and speaking comfortably.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Providing immediate care for teeth that have been knocked out (avulsed), dislodged, or fractured due to an accident or injury, aiming to save the tooth if possible.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.

Extensive Dental Treatment Needs

• Requiring Multiple or Lengthy Dental Procedures: Facing comprehensive dental work that could be better managed with the help of sedation to reduce stress, manage time effectively, and allow more treatment to be completed in fewer visits.

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

• Occlusal Splints / Night Guards / Bite Guards for Bruxism & TMJ Disorders: Providing precisely fitted custom splint therapy to manage symptoms of TMD, reduce muscle hyperactivity, protect against excessive tooth wear, and improve jaw comfort.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Customized full and partial dentures, carefully crafted to help patients regain confidence in their smile, ability to eat a varied diet, and speak clearly.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Essential maintenance services to extend the life and performance of your dentures, ensuring they continue to serve you well and comfortably.
• Oral Conscious Sedation (Anxiolysis): Utilizing carefully selected oral medications to help patients achieve a comfortable, calm, and stress-free dental experience, facilitating necessary treatment for apprehensive individuals.

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

At Dr. Thayne D. Blunston'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. Blunston frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For patients where their child being overdue for their regular dental visit and preventative care is a primary concern, Dr. Blunston focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in feeling a renewed sense of confidence in their smile and overall appearance. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully experiencing the simple joy of a pain-free mouth every day.
• Through Dr. Blunston's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from needing a substantial amount of dental work done and feeling quite overwhelmed by the prospect often find they can readily achieve their breath feeling consistently fresh and clean due to improved oral health and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like their children being able to enjoy treats in moderation without an excessive fear of immediate cavities due to good preventative care.
• Dr. Blunston provides dedicated support for patients going through feeling self-conscious about the stained or yellowish appearance of their teeth, always aiming for positive outcomes like their child calmly receiving dental injections due to a patient and skilled approach, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as their child being able_to focus on learning and playing without the interruption of dental pain.
• When having chipped a tooth unexpectedly while eating something hard begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Blunston helps patients strive for their teeth feeling more stable and their bite more aligned after corrective treatment. This makes participating in activities such as feeling good about their overall appearance and the positive first impression their smile makes a pleasant and possible experience again.

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

Dr. Blunston's practice is a dental office located in the Airdrie West neighborhood of Airdrie, AB. The clinic is conveniently located near the Airdrie Urgent Care Centre and is accessible via Airdrie Transit (Local routes & ICE to Calgary). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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 taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Blunston 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).

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Blunston will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals). It is important to follow Dr. Blunston's specific recommendation.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Blunston 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). They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs. Dr. Blunston may offer specialized services in areas like Comprehensive General Dentistry based on additional training.

What are dental implants, and how do I know if I'm a suitable candidate?

Dental implants are small, medical-grade titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They provide a strong foundation for fixed (crowns, bridges) or removable replacement teeth (dentures). Good candidates generally have healthy gums and adequate jawbone density to support the implant, and are in good general health. Dr. Blunston can perform a comprehensive assessment, which may include X-rays or 3D CBCT imaging, to evaluate your suitability. Dr. Blunston offers implant consultations and services.

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

In AB, provincial health plans (like 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, social assistance recipients). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and check your private dental insurance details before starting treatment.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Blunston 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. Blunston will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will also be performed or scheduled.

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

No, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Contact the clinic directly.

#1, 620 - 1st Avenue N.W.
Airdrie, AB, T4B 2R3

Phone: (403) 912-9378

Dr. Thayne D. Blunston 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. Blunston 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.