Dr. John Norman Fletcher – Dentist | Port Coquitlam, BC

Dr. John Norman Fletcher is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in Port Coquitlam, BC, Dr. Fletcher is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Fletcher 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. Fletcher 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. Fletcher 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. John Norman Fletcher earned a Dental Degree. With over 36 years of practice since 1989, Dr. Fletcher has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Fletcher is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care. This commitment ensures that patients receive the most effective and modern treatments available, reflecting Dr. Fletcher's ongoing pursuit of excellence in the field of dentistry.

Key aspects of Dr. Fletcher's dental practice philosophy include: believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible; a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being. Dr. Fletcher provides consultations in English.

Dr. John Norman Fletcher 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.

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): Early to moderate stages of gum disease involving some bone loss around teeth, managed by GPs with deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance.

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): 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: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.

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

• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• Dietary Counseling for Oral Health: Educating patients on the link between diet and oral health for long-term prevention.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Vigilant screening for oral cancer, a critical component of maintaining your overall health.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Gentle and efficient extraction of problematic teeth when deemed necessary to maintain overall oral health, resolve infection, or alleviate persistent pain.

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

At Dr. John Norman Fletcher'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. Fletcher frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients presenting with their gums feeling generally puffy, looking a bit darker red than usual, or exhibiting other signs of inflammation can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of having a comfortable, stable, and functional full-mouth tooth replacement solution, like implant-supported dentures under Dr. Fletcher's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume feeling relief from chronic headaches that were linked to their TMJ or bruxism without the former limitations or discomfort.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing a desire for a more permanent, comfortable, and functional solution than their current removable partial denture, involves working systematically towards clarity on their child's dental eruption sequence and any potential developmental concerns. Dr. Fletcher expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including speaking clearly and confidently in professional meetings or social gatherings.
• Patients experiencing their child experiencing a dental emergency, such as a badly broken tooth or facial swelling often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Fletcher's practice, a key objective is having a custom-fitted sports mouthguard to protect their smile during athletic activities, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in passing on good oral hygiene habits and a positive attitude towards dental care to their children.
• For patients where a desire to discuss options for a comprehensive 'smile makeover' to address multiple aesthetic concerns is a primary concern, Dr. Fletcher focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in their child overcoming dental anxiety and successfully completing needed dental treatment. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully biting into sandwiches or other challenging foods with complete confidence.

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

Dr. Fletcher's dental practice is located in the Central Port Coquitlam neighborhood of Port Coquitlam. The clinic is conveniently located near Industrial Areas and is accessible via TransLink (Bus, West Coast Express). Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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 provided in private dental clinics for the general public. Some limited dental surgeries performed within a hospital setting <em>may</em> be covered. Most dental costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance (often employer-sponsored), or via government assistance programs for eligible individuals (e.g., low-income families with children, seniors on specific benefits, social assistance recipients). It is crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to thoroughly review your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-pays, deductibles, annual maximums) before treatment.

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

Dental X-rays are very safe, particularly modern digital X-rays using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when necessary for diagnosis (e.g., new patients, detecting decay, assessing bone health, planning complex treatments). Dr. Fletcher determines the frequency based on your individual oral health, 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. Fletcher at the clinic?

Your first visit will include a comprehensive dental examination: review of your medical and dental history, a thorough check of your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues (oral cancer screening included), and any needed X-rays. Dr. Fletcher will discuss findings, address concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if necessary. A professional cleaning will often be performed or scheduled.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Fletcher is the primary dental care provider for all ages. Services include 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 gum disease management, and cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding, if offered). Dr. Fletcher also provides oral hygiene education and refers to specialists when needed.

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

Generally, every 6 months for preventative care. Dr. Fletcher will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual needs, risk factors (cavities or gum disease), and existing conditions (e.g., those with active gum disease or high caries risk may need more frequent visits). Follow Dr. Fletcher's specific recommendations.

What is our clinic's policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations?

We understand unforeseen circumstances can occur. However, please provide at least 24 business hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the appointment to another patient. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may incur a cancellation fee of $75. We appreciate your cooperation.

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

No referral is typically needed to schedule an appointment with a general dentist. Contact the clinic directly.

201-2255 Elgin Ave
Port Coquitlam, BC, V3C 2B4

Phone: (604) 942-4311

Dr. John Norman Fletcher 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. Fletcher 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.