Dr. Wesley R. Carlson – Dentist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Wesley R. Carlson is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at a dentist practice in Edmonton, AB, Dr. Carlson is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Carlson is licensed by The College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in AB. Dr. Carlson 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. Carlson also provides comprehensive general dental care with various certified levels of sedation (such as nitrous oxide/'laughing gas', oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, depending on specific qualifications) to help anxious patients, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals undergoing extensive procedures feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable throughout their dental treatment. Further complementing their dental practice, Dr. Carlson offers facial esthetic treatments using therapeutic neuromodulators (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin® for bruxism, TMJ pain, or cosmetic enhancement of the upper face such as frown lines and crow's feet) and/or dermal fillers to complement dental aesthetics, address facial harmony, and rejuvenate facial appearance, based on their specific certified training levels. For patient convenience, direct billing to many major dental insurance plans may be available at the clinic.

Dr. Wesley R. Carlson earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Carlson brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Carlson offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Facial Esthetic Services (Neuromodulators & Dermal Fillers) and General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. Dr. Carlson is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment to professional development ensures that Dr. Carlson remains at the forefront of advancements in dental technology and techniques, allowing them to offer patients the most effective and comfortable treatment options available.

Key aspects of Dr. Carlson's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans. Dr. Carlson provides consultations in English.

Dr. Wesley R. Carlson 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): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Urgent care for dental abscesses to alleviate severe discomfort and prevent serious complications.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Emergency management of traumatic dental injuries to maximize the chances of successful reimplantation or repair.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.

Tmj Disorders Bruxism

• Jaw Pain, Clicking, Popping, or Locking (TMJ Symptoms): Experiencing pain, discomfort, clicking sounds, popping sensations, or episodes of jaw locking in the jaw joint (TMJ) or surrounding facial muscles.
• Limited Jaw Opening (Trismus) or Difficulty Chewing Comfortably: Experiencing a noticeable restriction in how wide the mouth can be opened (trismus), or encountering pain, fatigue, or difficulty when chewing food effectively.

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

• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: High-resolution dental photography for documenting conditions, planning treatments, and tracking progress.
• Occlusal Splints / Night Guards / Bite Guards for Bruxism & TMJ Disorders: Personalized occlusal guards designed to reduce jaw pain, headaches, and prevent further dental damage that can be caused by habitual clenching or grinding of teeth.
• Non-Surgical TMJ/TMD Therapies & Conservative Management: Providing evidence-based, non-surgical treatments aimed at alleviating TMJ symptoms, reducing muscle tension, improving jaw function, and restoring comfort.
• Gum Contouring / Gingival Reshaping (Cosmetic Periodontal Plastic Surgery): Enhancing overall smile appearance by aesthetically contouring and sculpting the gum tissues to reveal more of the natural tooth.
• Dental Sealants: Protective sealants for children and adolescents to safeguard vulnerable back teeth from decay.

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

At Dr. Wesley R. Carlson'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. Carlson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Carlson to see patients who were troubled by a tooth getting accidentally knocked out or avulsed during a sports game or accident successfully achieve their toothache being completely resolved, allowing them to eat and sleep comfortably again. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like no longer needing to cut food into tiny pieces or avoid certain textures due to dental problems.
• Effectively addressing a persistent white patch (leukoplakia) or red patch (erythroplakia) in their mouth or on their tongue that wouldn't go away and needed urgent assessment with Dr. Carlson's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in sleeping peacefully without the interruption of dental pain or discomfort from oral appliances and social interactions.
• For those affected by a new or changing bump, swelling, or unusual growth on their gums or oral tissues that they were worried about, Dr. Carlson provides solutions that lead to their tooth's extreme sensitivity to cold being resolved after identifying and treating the cause. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to maintaining fresh breath, which improves their social and professional interactions.
• Dr. Carlson's comprehensive care for waking up frequently with a sore jaw, facial muscle tenderness, or tension headaches, possibly from teeth grinding is meticulously designed to result in their teeth feeling more stable and their bite more aligned after corrective treatment. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as their child focusing better at school, free from the distraction of dental issues without dental worries.

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

Dr. Carlson's practice, a dental office in Edmonton, is situated in the Downtown Core neighborhood of Edmonton. The clinic is conveniently located near a major north-south corridor and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

I'm very anxious about dental visits. Does Dr. Carlson offer any sedation options?

Yes, Dr. Carlson understands that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients. To help you feel more relaxed and comfortable, our clinic may offer various sedation options. Please discuss your anxiety openly with Dr. Carlson during your consultation so they can determine the most appropriate and safest sedation approach for your needs and the planned procedure.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Carlson 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. Carlson 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.

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

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every six months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Carlson will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months) while others may have slightly longer intervals between appointments. Following Dr. Carlson's specific recommendation is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health.

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. 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 groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It is essential to verify any potential public coverage you may be eligible for and to always check the details of your private dental insurance 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 necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Carlson will determine the frequency based on your individual needs, adhering to guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Carlson provides primary dental care for all ages, offering 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 may offer cosmetic procedures. They also educate on oral hygiene and refer to specialists for complex needs.

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

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

#201, 10503 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, AB, T5J 1Z4

Phone: (780) 423-1930

Dr. Wesley R. Carlson is a licensed Dentist 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. Carlson 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.