Dr. Theresa P. Chiang – Dentist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Theresa P. Chiang is a Pediatric Dentist. Practicing at a pediatric dentist practice in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Chiang is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Chiang 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. As a certified specialist in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Chiang provides comprehensive and specialized preventative and therapeutic oral health care exclusively for infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special health care needs. This includes behavior guidance, sedation, and treatment of early childhood caries and developmental dental issues. Dr. Chiang 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. Theresa P. Chiang earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Chiang brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Chiang is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Chiang's dental practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Chiang is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Cantonese, Mandarin and Shanghainese.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Theresa P. Chiang addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Requiring specialized dental management and a tailored care approach for children and adolescents with underlying medical conditions (e.g., congenital heart disease, bleeding disorders, immunocompromise), physical disabilities (e.g., cerebral palsy), cognitive or developmental challenges (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome), or significant behavioral issues that make routine dental treatment difficult.
• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Specialized considerations for dental treatment in pediatric patients with underlying illnesses.

Dental Development Issues

• Anomalies or Delays in Tooth Development or Eruption Sequence: Concerns about significantly delayed eruption of primary or permanent teeth, congenitally missing teeth (hypodontia), supernumerary (extra) teeth, or teeth that are abnormally shaped, sized (microdontia/macrodontia), or positioned.

Childhood Dental Conditions

• Comprehensive Dental Needs of Infants, Children, and Adolescents: Requiring specialized, age-appropriate, and behaviorally-sensitive dental care tailored to the unique oral health needs, developmental stages, and cooperation levels of growing children, from their first tooth as infants through their teenage years.

Early Childhood Caries

• Aggressive Tooth Decay (Cavities) in Infants & Toddlers (ECC): Presence of one or more decayed, missing (due to decay), or filled tooth surfaces in any primary tooth in a child 71 months of age or younger, often rapidly progressing and affecting multiple teeth, particularly the upper front teeth.

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

• Comprehensive Oral Health Care for Infants, Children & Adolescents: Tailored dental services to meet the unique needs of growing smiles, from first tooth to teenage years.
• Dental Care for Children with Special Health Care Needs: A dedicated and patient approach to ensure all children, regardless of ability, receive optimal dental care in a supportive setting.
• Management of Early Childhood Caries (ECC) & Cavities in Children: Expert care for managing cavities and promoting a cavity-free future for children.
• Behavior Guidance & Management for Pediatric Patients: Utilizing specialized techniques (tell-show-do, positive reinforcement, distraction) to help children feel comfortable and cooperative during dental visits.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Chiang is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Theresa P. Chiang's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• If a strong desire to improve the overall aesthetic appearance of their smile has unfortunately put their child being able_to focus on learning and playing without the interruption of dental pain on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Chiang works closely with patients towards attaining their old, uncomfortable dental bridge being replaced with a well-fitting and aesthetic new one, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• At Dr. Chiang's clinic, addressing experiencing significant fear or deep-seated anxiety about upcoming dental visits means focusing on patient goals. Achieving their child's dental emergency being handled swiftly and compassionately, minimizing distress helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to their smile reflecting their inner happiness and confidence.
• Many people seek Dr. Chiang's professional help and expertise when dealing with needing a completely new set of dentures because their old ones were very worn out, ill-fitting, and no longer functional. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently their old, unsightly silver filling being replaced with a natural-looking tooth-coloured restoration, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to feeling that their smile truly reflects their personality and inner confidence..
• For patients where a wisdom tooth starting to cause significant pain, pressure, or signs of infection is a primary concern, Dr. Chiang focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in successfully replacing their missing tooth with a strong, natural-looking dental implant. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully their children being able to enjoy treats in moderation without an excessive fear of immediate cavities due to good preventative care.

Your specialized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Chiang, will be meticulously designed to address your unique concerns and help you reach your specific objectives within their area of expertise. Dr. Chiang is committed to providing the highest standard of specialized care, tailored to your individual needs.

Dr. Chiang's practice is a dental office in Vancouver, situated in the Shaughnessy, Arbutus Ridge South neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Woodward's Building and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact our clinic directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Chiang.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Chiang will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., 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 between appointments. It is crucial to follow Dr. Chiang's specific recommendations.

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 by 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 is essential 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.

Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see a dental specialist (e.g., Orthodontist, Periodontist)?

While some dental specialists may accept patients directly, it is often recommended, and sometimes required by the specialist or insurance plans, to have a referral from a general dentist like Dr. Chiang. A referral ensures the specialist has the relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Chiang identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. Always check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider if you are unsure.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Chiang 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. Chiang 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 during this visit or scheduled for a subsequent appointment.

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 minimize radiation exposure further. 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. Chiang 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).

430 - 2425 Oak St
Vancouver, BC, V6H 3S7

Phone: (604) 732-1615

Dr. Theresa P. Chiang is a licensed Pediatric 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. Chiang 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.