Dr. Vivek Bipinchandra Patel – Dentist | Williams Lake, BC

Dr. Vivek Bipinchandra Patel is a Dentist. Practicing at Williams lake smiles in Williams Lake, BC, Dr. Patel is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Patel 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. Patel 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. Patel 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 Williams lake smiles.

Dr. Vivek Bipinchandra Patel earned a Dental Degree. With over 4 years of practice since 2021, Dr. Patel has gained valuable clinical experience. Dr. Patel is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Patel remains at the forefront of advancements in dental techniques and technology, benefiting patients through access to the most effective and modern treatments.

Key aspects of Dr. Patel's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Patel is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Gujrati and Hindi.

Dr. Vivek Bipinchandra Patel 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

• 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.
• 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.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Guidance on choosing effective and safe over-the-counter dental care products.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Identifying and treating cavities to prevent further decay, toothache, and potential tooth loss.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Patel. 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.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Standard tooth removal procedures for non-impacted teeth that do not require complex surgical intervention.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Providing custom-made night guards (occlusal splints) to protect teeth from the effects of nocturnal bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching).
• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.
• 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. Patel. 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. Vivek Bipinchandra Patel adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

At Williams lake smiles, 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. Patel frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of feeling like their teeth were gradually shifting position or their bite was changing noticeably over time, Dr. Patel offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach feeling significantly more relaxed and calm during dental visits due to effective anxiety management strategies or sedation. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of knowing their teeth are well-protected from decay and damage.
• Many people seek Dr. Patel's professional help and expertise when dealing with needing urgent treatment for an infected or abscessed tooth to avoid losing it and to relieve severe pain. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently the sore spot or ulcer in their mouth healing completely after diagnosis and treatment, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to easily maintaining their daily oral hygiene routine without experiencing bleeding or pain.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Patel to see patients who were troubled by a tooth that suddenly felt rough, had a sharp or jagged edge, or was causing irritation successfully achieve the rough or sharp edge on their tooth being smoothed out, eliminating irritation. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet.
• When a dental problem or discomfort that they had been avoiding or putting off addressing for far too long starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to their child looking forward to dental visits rather than fearing them, Dr. Patel and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by feeling well-equipped with advice on how to care for their toddler's developing teeth and a return to comfort and confidence.

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

Williams lake smiles, Dr. Patel's practice, is situated in a central location within the Williams Lake neighborhood of Williams Lake. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Patel at Williams lake smiles?

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

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 further minimize exposure. 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. Patel 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. Patel for a check-up and cleaning?

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Patel 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 (e.g., those managing active gum disease or at high caries risk), while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is important to follow Dr. Patel's specific recommendation.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Patel 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, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and may include cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also provide education on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for more complex needs.

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

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

What is Williams lake smiles'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. Patel. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may be subject to a $50 cancellation fee. We appreciate your cooperation.

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, or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families). Always check your insurance coverage details before treatment.

Williams lake smiles
249 Barnard Street
Williams Lake, BC, V2G 1G1

Phone: (250) 398-8411

Dr. Vivek Bipinchandra Patel 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. Patel 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.