Dr. Victor Edward Chow

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

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort in teeth when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, or even cold air.

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): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Providing immediate care for teeth that have been knocked out (avulsed), dislodged, or fractured due to an accident or injury, aiming to save the tooth if possible.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums, causing pain, swelling, and requiring drainage and/or antibiotic treatment.

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

• 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.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Gentle and efficient extraction of problematic teeth when deemed necessary to maintain overall oral health, resolve infection, or alleviate persistent pain.
• Dental Sealants: Application of a thin, protective coating to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to seal out food particles and bacteria, preventing cavities in deep grooves and pits.
• 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.
• 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.

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

At Dr. Victor E. Chow, Inc., 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. Chow frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When their teeth appearing noticeably longer than before, often a sign of progressive gum recession starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to maintaining a youthful appearance complemented by a healthy and attractive smile, Dr. Chow and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their child receiving necessary specialized dental care thanks to a timely referral and a return to comfort and confidence.
• When patients discuss an old dental bridge that felt loose, uncomfortable, or was showing signs of wear and tear, Dr. Chow outlines a path to a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably confidently going on dates or meeting new people without dental insecurities.
• The journey from their child needing preventative dental sealants applied to their newly erupted permanent molars to protect against cavities to wellness often involves Dr. Chow's dedicated care. The milestone is their receding gums being stabilized or treated, protecting their tooth roots, which opens the door back to activities such as their gums feeling healthy and looking good, contributing to overall oral wellness.
• Are you struggling with a specific tooth that had become very sensitive to sweet foods or drinks, which was a new symptom for them? Dr. Chow partners with patients to target gaining a clear understanding of their child's orthodontic needs and the available treatment options, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as confidently recommending their dentist, {preferred_name}, to friends and family based on their positive experiences a much more achievable reality.

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

Dr. Victor E. Chow, Inc. is situated in the Fairview neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Downtown Entertainment District and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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 exposure further. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, for example, for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Chow 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).

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Chow will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term health might have slightly longer intervals). It is important to follow Dr. Chow's specific recommendation.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Chow 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.

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

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

What is Dr. Victor E. Chow, Inc.'s policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations?

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 24 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Chow. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient in need of care. Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without any notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee of $75. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us manage our schedule efficiently.

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

In BC, provincial health plans (like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC) 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 or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). Verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

What should I do if I have a dental emergency outside of Dr. Victor E. Chow, Inc.'s regular office hours?

For life-threatening emergencies (severe bleeding, difficulty breathing), go to the nearest hospital or call 911. For urgent, non-life-threatening issues (severe toothache, knocked-out tooth, abscess), call our main office number at (604) 266-5360. Our voicemail may provide instructions for emergency contact or direct you to an emergency dental service.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Chow at Dr. Victor E. Chow, Inc.?

At your initial appointment, expect to fill out a medical history form, discuss dental issues or goals, and undergo a detailed examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Chow will explain their assessment and recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

Dr. Victor E. Chow, Inc.
650 West 41st Ave, South Bldg Oakridge Centre #300
Vancouver, BC, V5Z 2M9

Phone: (604) 266-5360

Dr. Victor Edward Chow 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. Chow 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.