Dr. Trent Charles Sunderland

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

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Experiencing a persistent lack of saliva, leading to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Addressing the common issue of sensitive teeth to improve daily comfort and enjoyment of food and beverages.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.

Gum Disease Initial

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

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

• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.
• Dental Crowns (Caps): Full-coverage restorations crafted from materials like porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or gold to encase and reinforce a compromised tooth for long-term durability.
• Inlays & Onlays (Partial Crowns): Durable and precisely fitting partial crowns designed to preserve more natural tooth structure while effectively repairing significant decay or fractures on the chewing surfaces.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Educating patients on the importance of gum health and the steps they can take to maintain healthy periodontal tissues for life.
• 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.

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

At Dr. Trent Charles Sunderland'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. Sunderland frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Understanding the frustration an old dental bridge that felt loose, uncomfortable, or was showing signs of wear and tear can cause, Dr. Sunderland tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their chipped or broken tooth being beautifully restored to its natural shape and function, allowing for renewed participation in activities like resuming hobbies that require concentration, now free from dental pain.
• Dr. Sunderland expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of a wisdom tooth starting to cause significant pain, pressure, or signs of infection. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their child stopping their thumb-sucking habit with supportive guidance, protecting their dental development, means they can happily and comfortably get back to feeling comfortable and pain-free throughout their day, no longer bothered by a nagging dental problem.
• Patients experiencing experiencing diffuse facial pain or muscle tenderness that they suspected might be related to their jaw joint or bite often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Sunderland's practice, a key objective is their extensive dental work being completed efficiently and comfortably, often with the help of sedation, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in their family members also benefiting from improved oral health knowledge shared from the patient's visits.
• When a tooth that had become very dark or discolored, perhaps after a past injury or previous root canal treatment starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to kissing their loved ones with confidence and without oral discomfort, Dr. Sunderland and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by the inflammation around their dental implant being successfully treated, ensuring its longevity and a return to comfort and confidence.

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

Dr. Sunderland's practice is a dental office conveniently located in the Central Vernon, Downtown neighborhood of Vernon, BC. The clinic is situated near the Vernon Museum & Archives and is easily accessible via the Vernon Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Sunderland and the team at the clinic 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. Sunderland will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Sunderland 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). Dr. Sunderland also educates patients on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs.

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

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. Sunderland.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Sunderland will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions. Some patients may need visits every 3-4 months, while others might have slightly longer intervals. It is important to follow Dr. Sunderland's specific recommendation.

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). Always check your private dental insurance details and verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for before starting treatment.

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. Sunderland 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).

1-4010 27 St
Vernon, BC, V1T 4X7

Phone: (250) 549-0025

Dr. Trent Charles Sunderland 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. Sunderland 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.