Dr. Thomas Yu

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery, Dr. Thomas Yu addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Peri Implantitis Mucositis

• Inflammation or Infection Around Dental Implants (Peri-Implant Mucositis/Peri-Implantitis): Seeking treatment from a periodontist or implant specialist for problems affecting the health of dental implants.

Dental Implant Complications

• Complications with Existing Dental Implants (e.g., Peri-implantitis, Loosening, Fracture): Experiencing issues such as persistent inflammation, infection (peri-implant mucositis or peri-implantitis), bone loss, pain, or mobility around existing dental implants, or problems with the implant crown or prosthesis (e.g., loosening, fracture), requiring specialist evaluation and treatment by a periodontist, prosthodontist, or oral surgeon.

Receding Gums Bone Loss

• Significant Gum Recession or Localized Jawbone Loss Requiring Augmentation: Seeking specialist surgical treatment to restore lost gum or bone tissue for improved periodontal health, functional support for teeth/implants, and enhanced smile appearance.

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

• Comprehensive Periodontal Examination & Diagnosis: Specialist evaluation to determine the extent and severity of periodontal disease and create a tailored treatment plan.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Vigilant screening for oral cancer, a critical component of maintaining your overall health.
• Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy (Scaling & Root Planing): The foundational treatment for periodontitis, aimed at controlling infection and inflammation.
• Specialist Dental Implant Surgical Placement: Expert surgical placement of dental implants by a periodontal or oral surgery specialist, including management of complex cases, immediate implant placement, and implant site development.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Guidance on the best tools and methods for cleaning your teeth and gums thoroughly to prevent dental problems.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery, Dr. Yu is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Thomas Yu's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• The journey from their gums bleeding a little almost every time they brushed or flossed to wellness often involves Dr. Yu's dedicated care. The milestone is their breath feeling consistently fresh and clean due to improved oral health, which opens the door back to activities such as waking up feeling refreshed, without jaw soreness or tension from nighttime grinding.
• With Dr. Yu's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing looking for a new family dentist who could provide comprehensive care for all members of their family, from children to adults is focused on achieving their partner reporting less snoring or cessation of breathing pauses during sleep after starting treatment with a dental sleep apnea appliance (facilitated by their dentist). This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet without dental concerns.
• Patients presenting with a tooth that suddenly felt rough, had a sharp or jagged edge, or was causing irritation can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their gums appearing consistently healthy, pink, and firm, without any signs of puffiness or inflammation under Dr. Yu's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume no longer needing to take frequent pain medication for dental issues without the former limitations or discomfort.
• Dr. Yu often consults with patients whose an old dental crown that needed to be replaced because it was visibly worn, chipped, poorly fitting, or had decay underneath significantly limits their enjoyment of actively engaging in conversations without being preoccupied by a dental concern or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve feeling confident that their gum health is being actively maintained, preventing future problems and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.

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

Dr. Yu's practice is a modern dental office located in the Downtown Beltline (Connaught) neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near Prince's Island Park and is easily accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Yu 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 visits 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. It is crucial to follow Dr. Yu's specific recommendations for optimal oral health.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Yu 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. Yu 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.

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

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

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

In Alberta, provincial health plans like the 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 provided by employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). 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 regarding coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums before starting treatment at the clinic.

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 also 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. Yu 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).

1333 - 8th Street S.W., Suite 1007
Calgary, AB, T2R 1M6

Phone: (403) 228-2059

Dr. Thomas Yu is a licensed Periodontist 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. Yu 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.