Dr. Ritika Sharma – Dentist | Courtenay, BC (2025)

Dr. Ritika Sharma is a Dentist. Practicing at Crown Isle Dental Health Centre in Courtenay, BC, Dr. Sharma is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Sharma 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. Sharma 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. Sharma 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 Crown Isle Dental Health Centre.

Dr. Ritika Sharma earned a Dental Degree. With over 4 years of practice since 2021, Dr. Sharma has gained valuable clinical experience. Dr. Sharma is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most current and effective treatments available, reflecting Dr. Sharma's dedication to professional excellence and patient well-being.

Key aspects of Dr. Sharma's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; a commitment to utilizing modern dental technology and evidence-based techniques for optimal treatment outcomes. Dr. Sharma is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Hindi and Punjabi.

Dr. Ritika Sharma 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

• Lost Filling or Crown: Addressing situations where a dental filling or crown has become dislodged or fallen out, requiring temporary or permanent replacement.
• 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.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.

Gum Disease Initial

• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Addressing gum infections that have started to affect the supporting bone, with a focus on halting progression and maintaining teeth.

Tooth Decay Cavities

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

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Sharma. 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.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Fostering informed decision-making through comprehensive patient education about their dental health status and available treatment pathways.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.
• Dentures (Complete & Partial, Conventional & Implant-Supported): Designing, fabricating, and fitting comfortable, functional, and natural-looking complete dentures (for patients missing all teeth in an arch) or partial dentures (for patients missing some teeth) to restore chewing ability, speech, and smile aesthetics. Options may include implant-supported dentures for enhanced stability.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Comprehensive dental imaging services, including panoramic and intraoral X-rays, to aid in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.

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

At Crown Isle Dental Health Centre, 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. Sharma frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Sharma expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of one of their teeth starting to feel a bit loose or wobbly. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their lost tooth being promptly replaced, preventing undesirable shifting of adjacent teeth and maintaining smile aesthetics, means they can happily and comfortably get back to waking up feeling refreshed, without jaw soreness or tension from nighttime grinding.
• Through Dr. Sharma's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from a wisdom tooth starting to cause significant pain, pressure, or signs of infection often find they can readily achieve their bite feeling more comfortable and balanced after necessary adjustments or restorations and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like feeling comfortable with close-up interactions and conversations.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Sharma with concerns about a tooth that felt 'high' or uncomfortable after a recent dental filling, affecting their bite. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve gaining a clear understanding of their child's orthodontic needs and the available treatment options, making a positive and lasting return to enjoying a cold ice cream or a hot cup of coffee without wincing from tooth sensitivity not just possible, but highly feasible.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of a single tooth that had become noticeably darker in color than the adjacent teeth, possibly after trauma, Dr. Sharma offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their smile looking noticeably brighter and whiter after professional whitening treatment. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of playing a wind instrument with ease and comfort.

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

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

In British Columbia, the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan, or MSP) typically does <strong>not</strong> cover routine or major dental procedures in private dental clinics for the general population. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered by MSP. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance (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 crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to check your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-payments, deductibles, and annual maximums) before starting treatment at Crown Isle Dental Health Centre.

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

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

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

Dr. Sharma and our team at Crown Isle Dental Health Centre are committed to making your dental experience as comfortable as possible. While we may not offer extensive sedation options in-house, please discuss any anxieties you have with Dr. Sharma. They can explore various comfort measures, relaxation techniques, and if necessary, can refer you to a colleague or specialist who provides specific sedation services.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Sharma provides primary dental care for patients of all ages. This includes 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. Dr. Sharma also educates patients on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, particularly modern digital X-rays that use minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan treatments). Dr. Sharma will determine the frequency based on your individual needs, risk factors, and dental history, following guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Sharma at Crown Isle Dental Health Centre?

Your first visit will involve completing a medical history form, discussing your dental concerns and goals with Dr. Sharma, and undergoing a thorough oral examination. Digital X-rays may be taken. Dr. Sharma will then explain their findings and recommend any necessary treatment.

What is Crown Isle Dental Health Centre's policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations?

We kindly request at least 24 business hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Shorter notice or missed appointments may be subject to a cancellation fee (details available from the clinic). We appreciate your cooperation.

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Sharma will personalize this schedule based on your individual oral health needs and risk factors. Some patients may need more frequent visits.

Crown Isle Dental Health Centre
444 Lerwick Road #220
Courtenay, BC, V9N 0A9

Phone: (250) 338-2599

Dr. Ritika Sharma 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. Sharma 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.