Dr. Zoe Shum – Dentist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Zoe Shum is a Dentist (Sedation Dentistry Options). Practicing at a dentist practice in Calgary, AB, Dr. Shum is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Shum 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. Shum 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. Shum 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. Dr. Shum 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. Zoe Shum earned a Dental Degree. Dr. Shum brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Dr. Shum offers a broad range of dental services and may have particular interests or developed skills in areas such as General Dentistry with Certified Sedation Options. Dr. Shum is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that Dr. Shum 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. Shum's dental practice philosophy include: a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Shum provides consultations in English.

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

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Restoring teeth affected by decay with appropriate filling materials to maintain oral health.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Tooth decay in infants and young children, often affecting the upper front teeth, requiring early intervention and preventative strategies.

Dental Anxiety Phobia

• History of Traumatic Dental Experiences: Seeking a compassionate, gentle, and communicative approach to dental care due to previous trauma.
• Fear or Anxiety about Dental Visits/Procedures: Seeking a dental environment and care approach that is understanding, patient, and supportive of dental fears.

Special Needs Dental Care Peds

• Dental Care for Medically Compromised Children: Children with significant systemic health conditions (e.g., organ transplants, cancer, uncontrolled diabetes) who require careful dental management and coordination with their medical specialists to prevent oral complications and ensure dental treatments are performed safely.
• Dental Care for Children & Adolescents with Special Healthcare Needs (Physical, Cognitive, Behavioral, Medical): Seeking a pediatric dental specialist or a general dentist with significant experience and resources in providing safe, effective, and compassionate dental care for children with unique and complex needs, potentially including the use of advanced behavior guidance techniques or sedation/anesthesia.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.

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

• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Low-radiation digital radiographs to detect cavities between teeth, assess bone levels, view tooth roots, and identify other hidden dental issues.
• Oral Conscious Sedation (Anxiolysis): Utilizing carefully selected oral medications to help patients achieve a comfortable, calm, and stress-free dental experience, facilitating necessary treatment for apprehensive individuals.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Nutritional advice tailored to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent dental diseases.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Dedicated time to review diagnostic findings, explain recommended procedures, and collaboratively create a dental care strategy that meets your needs and goals.
• Denture Adjustments, Repairs & Relines: Essential maintenance services to extend the life and performance of your dentures, ensuring they continue to serve you well and comfortably.

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

At Dr. Zoe Shum'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. Shum frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• If their child being overdue for their regular dental visit and preventative care is preventing you from fully enjoying maintaining a professional appearance that boosts their career prospects or causing discomfort, Dr. Shum offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve their dentures no longer causing sore spots, allowing them to eat and speak with ease through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Shum about recognizing the need for a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) because it had been a significant time since their last professional hygiene visit is to attain their child stopping their thumb-sucking habit with supportive guidance, protecting their dental development. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like confidently taking on speaking roles or performances without concern for their dental appearance or speech clarity.
• Dr. Shum's comprehensive care for the area around one of their existing dental implants feeling persistently sore, inflamed, or showing signs of bleeding is meticulously designed to result in a noticeable reduction or cessation of gum bleeding when flossing, indicating improved gingival health. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as their child understanding the importance of regular dental check-ups for a lifetime of health without dental worries.
• For patients where a tooth that had become very dark or discolored, perhaps after a past injury or previous root canal treatment is a primary concern, Dr. Shum focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in experiencing a significant reduction or complete resolution of a dull, aching pain in their jaw joint area. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully their child being excited to show off their newly sealed or filled tooth to friends.

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

Dr. Shum's practice, a dental office in Calgary, is situated in the SE: Acadia, Fairview, Willow Park East neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near Bow River Pathway and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Shum 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. Shum 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. Shum typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Shum 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 if offered). 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. Shum?

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

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

In AB, provincial health plans (like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)) 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 your private dental insurance details 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. Shum 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. Shum for a check-up and cleaning?

For most patients, every 6 months is generally recommended for preventative care. Dr. Shum will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months). Follow Dr. Shum's specific recommendation.

708, 6455 MacLeod Trail SW
Calgary, AB, T2H 0K9

Phone: (403) 253-7003

Dr. Zoe Shum 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. Shum 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.