Dr. Tom Lee – Dentist | Burnaby, BC

Dr. Tom Lee is a Dentist. Practicing at Burnaby Sedation Dental Group in Burnaby, BC, Dr. Lee is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Lee 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. Lee 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. Lee 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 Burnaby Sedation Dental Group.

Dr. Tom Lee earned a Dental Degree. With over 18 years of practice since 2007, Dr. Lee has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Lee is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available. This commitment to professional development reflects Dr. Lee's unwavering dedication to providing exceptional dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Lee's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients. Dr. Lee is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Korean.

Dr. Tom Lee 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): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.

Common Dental Issues

• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Minor to moderate fractures or chips in teeth due to injury or wear, requiring restorative repair.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Addressing various types of dental pain to provide relief and identify necessary treatment.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Addressing the symptoms and oral health risks associated with chronic dry mouth.

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

• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Thorough dental cleanings by a registered dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and surface stains, promoting healthy gums and teeth.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Proactive examinations as part of your check-up to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Personalized protective oral appliances, including athletic guards for impact protection and night guards to alleviate TMJ stress and prevent tooth wear.
• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Replacing one or more missing teeth with a fixed (non-removable) dental bridge, typically anchored to adjacent natural teeth (abutments) or dental implants, to restore chewing function, maintain tooth alignment, and improve smile aesthetics.
• Dental Crowns (Caps): Placing custom-made dental crowns (caps) to cover, protect, and strengthen damaged, weakened, extensively filled, or root-canal-treated teeth, restoring their original shape, size, and appearance.

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

At Burnaby Sedation Dental Group, 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. Lee frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For patients where needing practical advice and guidance on how to properly care for their toddler's newly erupted first teeth is a primary concern, Dr. Lee focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in experiencing relief from facial pain after the dental contributions were identified and managed. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully their smile being ready for any impromptu photo opportunity or social media post.
• For those affected by wondering if their child might need braces or orthodontic assessment for crooked teeth, Dr. Lee provides solutions that lead to their child receiving necessary specialized dental care thanks to a timely referral. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to enjoying a wide variety of their favorite foods, including crunchy apples or a juicy steak, without pain or difficulty.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing ongoing concerns about bad breath that they believed might be related to a hidden dental infection or persistent gum problem, involves working systematically towards a specific tooth no longer being sensitive to biting pressure, indicating successful treatment. Dr. Lee expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including maintaining a professional appearance that boosts their career prospects.
• At Dr. Lee's clinic, addressing needing a thorough dental check-up and clearance before starting a major medical treatment or undergoing surgery (e.g., cardiac surgery, organ transplant, chemotherapy) means focusing on patient goals. Achieving a noticeable improvement or elimination of persistent bad taste in their mouth helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to confidently recommending their dentist, {preferred_name}, to friends and family based on their positive experiences.

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

Burnaby Sedation Dental Group, where Dr. Lee practices, is situated in the Coquitlam West / Burnaby East (Lougheed Town Centre area) neighborhood of Burnaby. The clinic is conveniently located near Burnaby City Hall and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium Lines, Bus). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every six months. However, Dr. Lee will personalize your schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients might need more frequent 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. Following Dr. Lee's specific recommendations is crucial for optimal oral health.

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

Typically, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Patients are welcome to contact Burnaby Sedation Dental Group directly to arrange their visit with Dr. Lee.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Lee is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services. These include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, dental sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may also include cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening or bonding. Dr. Lee also provides education on oral hygiene and will refer patients to specialists for more complex needs.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Lee at Burnaby Sedation Dental Group?

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive dental examination. This includes reviewing 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. Lee will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed during this visit or scheduled for a subsequent appointment.

I experience jaw pain, clicking, and headaches. Can Dr. Lee help with TMJ/TMD issues?

Dr. Lee can perform an initial assessment of your jaw pain and related symptoms. Depending on the findings and complexity, they may offer conservative management advice, such as recommending lifestyle modifications or over-the-counter pain relief. If more specialized care is indicated, Dr. Lee will provide a referral to a dentist or specialist with advanced training in TMJ disorders.

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 necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Lee will determine the frequency based on your individual needs and dental history, adhering to guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might 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). It is essential to check your private dental insurance coverage and verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for before starting treatment.

Burnaby Sedation Dental Group
250 - 3433 North Rd
Burnaby, BC, V3J 0A9

Phone: (604) 568-2211

Dr. Tom Lee 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. Lee 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.