Dr. Yan Liu – Dentist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Yan Liu is a Orthodontist. Practicing at a orthodontist practice in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Liu is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Liu 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. As a certified specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Liu focuses exclusively on the diagnosis, prevention, interception, and comprehensive treatment of malocclusions (improper bites), misaligned teeth, and jaw irregularities using a full range of orthodontic appliances including braces, clear aligners, and retainers for children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Liu 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 the clinic.

Dr. Yan Liu earned a Dental Degree. This was followed by specialized training in advanced training to become a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Liu brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Liu is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment to professional development ensures that Dr. Liu remains at the forefront of orthodontic advancements, consistently employing the latest techniques and technologies to deliver exceptional patient care.

Key aspects of Dr. Liu's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Liu is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Mandarin and Taiwanese.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Yan Liu addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Crowding Spacing Teeth

• Crowded, Overlapped, or Excessively Spaced Teeth: Addressing issues of dental arch length discrepancy leading to either crowding or spacing of teeth.

Jaw Alignment Growth Concerns

• Jaw Growth Discrepancies & Skeletal Imbalances in Growing Patients: Concerns about the proportional growth and development of the upper and lower jaws in children or adolescents, potentially requiring interceptive orthodontic treatment (Phase I) with functional appliances or headgear to guide jaw growth, or future orthognathic (jaw) surgery in conjunction with orthodontics for severe skeletal imbalances.

Overbite Underbite Crossbite

• Specific Bite Problems: Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite, Open Bite: Concerns about specific types of malocclusion: excessive vertical overlap of front teeth (deep overbite), lower front teeth protruding past upper teeth (underbite), upper teeth fitting inside lower teeth (crossbite), or no vertical overlap between front or back teeth (open bite).

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

• Comprehensive Orthodontic Diagnosis & Treatment Planning: Specialist evaluation of bite problems, teeth alignment, and jaw relationships using clinical exams, dental models, photographs, and advanced imaging (X-rays, CBCT).
• Traditional Metal & Ceramic Braces: Classic and aesthetic brace options for comprehensive orthodontic correction in children, teens, and adults.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Comprehensive advice on preventing gum inflammation and infection for lifelong oral health and overall well-being.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Proactive examinations as part of your check-up to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.

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

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Liu is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Dr. Yan Liu's practice, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• When an old dental crown that needed to be replaced because it was visibly worn, chipped, poorly fitting, or had decay underneath starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to replacing missing teeth and feeling whole again, with a complete and functional smile, Dr. Liu and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by the dark spot on their tooth being treated, preventing a larger cavity from forming and a return to comfort and confidence.
• Patients experiencing their teeth feeling overly sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Liu's practice, a key objective is feeling confident about effectively cleaning around their dental bridge, implants, or orthodontic appliances after personalized instruction, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in kissing their loved ones with confidence and without oral discomfort.
• For individuals troubled by noticing their gums seemed to be receding or pulling away from their teeth, making teeth look longer, Dr. Liu's approach is focused on delivering the gap between their front teeth being attractively closed, boosting their confidence. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like feeling refreshed and confident with consistently fresh breath throughout the day with a healthier smile.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed recognizing the need for a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) because it had been a significant time since their last professional hygiene visit with Dr. Liu's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to feeling confident that their gum health is being actively maintained, preventing future problems and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy resuming hobbies that require concentration, now free from dental pain once more.

Your specialized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Liu, will be meticulously designed to address your unique concerns and help you reach your specific objectives within their area of expertise. Dr. Liu is committed to providing the highest standard of specialized care, tailored to your individual needs.

Dr. Liu's practice, a dental office in Vancouver, is situated in the Dunbar-Southlands neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Future Subway Extension 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.

How long does orthodontic treatment (e.g., braces, Invisalign®) usually take with Dr. Liu?

Treatment time varies greatly depending on the complexity of the case, the patient's age, the type of appliance used, and the patient's cooperation. Average treatment can range from 12 to 36 months. Dr. Liu will provide a personalized estimate after a comprehensive orthodontic assessment.

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

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. Liu.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Liu 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. Liu 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. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Liu 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. Liu for a check-up and cleaning?

For most patients, check-ups and cleanings every 6 months are recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Liu 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. Liu's specific recommendation.

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

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 (often through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). Verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and always check the details of your private dental insurance before starting treatment.

3556 West 38th Avenue
Vancouver, BC, V6N 2Y1

Phone: (778) 681-5699

Dr. Yan Liu is a licensed Orthodontist 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. Liu 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.