Dr. Thomas Tyler Sheasby

Dr. Thomas Tyler Sheasby 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): 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.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Addressing broken or cracked teeth to restore their form, function, and prevent infection.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Emergency management of traumatic dental injuries to maximize the chances of successful reimplantation or repair.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Treating the initial stage of gum disease to prevent progression to more serious periodontitis.

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

• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Treatment involving the removal of infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, thorough cleaning and shaping of the root canal system, and sealing it to prevent reinfection, often for less complex endodontic cases.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Addressing common issues with loose, uncomfortable, or damaged dentures to restore proper fit and patient satisfaction.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Comprehensive dental imaging services, including panoramic and intraoral X-rays, to aid in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.

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

At Vernon Dental Center, 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. Sheasby frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Effectively addressing a tooth getting accidentally knocked out or avulsed during a sports game or accident with Dr. Sheasby's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of their teeth and gums feeling exceptionally clean and healthy after a necessary deep cleaning procedure, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in kissing their loved ones with confidence and without oral discomfort and social interactions.
• Many people seek Dr. Sheasby's professional help and expertise when dealing with their child being referred to a dental specialist for specific or complex treatment needs by their school or another health provider. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort.
• If their gums feeling generally puffy, looking a bit darker red than usual, or exhibiting other signs of inflammation is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Sheasby develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at their recurrent canker sores becoming less frequent or less severe with management strategies. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy laughing openly and heartily without worrying about the appearance of their teeth.
• For individuals troubled by a strong desire to improve the overall aesthetic appearance of their smile, Dr. Sheasby's approach is focused on delivering their child's dental emergency being handled swiftly and compassionately, minimizing distress. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like biting into sandwiches or other challenging foods with complete confidence with a healthier smile.

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

Vernon Dental Center, where Dr. Sheasby practices, is situated in the Central Vernon, Downtown neighborhood of Vernon. The clinic is conveniently located near Polson Park and is accessible via Vernon Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Sheasby 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 managing active gum disease or at high risk for cavities may need visits every 3-4 months, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is crucial to follow Dr. Sheasby's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

What should I do if I have a dental emergency outside of Vernon Dental Center's regular office hours?

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency (e.g., severe uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing due to facial swelling, significant facial trauma), please go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911 immediately. For urgent dental issues that are not life-threatening but require prompt attention outside of Vernon Dental Center’s hours (such as severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, a dental abscess with moderate swelling, or a broken tooth causing sharp pain), please call our main office number at (250) 542-1179. Our voicemail message may provide instructions for emergency contact with Dr. Sheasby or another on-call dentist, or direct you to an emergency dental service available in the Vernon area.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Sheasby at Vernon Dental Center?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Sheasby and the team at Vernon Dental Center will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Sheasby will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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. Sheasby. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Sheasby identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. If unsure, check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider.

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

In BC, provincial health plans like the Medical Services Plan (MSP) 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 always check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

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

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

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Sheasby 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.

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. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Sheasby 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).

Vernon Dental Center
201-3200 30 Ave
Vernon, BC, V1T 2C5

Phone: (250) 542-1179

Dr. Thomas Tyler Sheasby 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. Sheasby 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.