Dr. Melissa Lynn Skinner – Dentist | North Vancouver, BC

Dr. Melissa Lynn Skinner is a Dentist. Practicing at a dentist practice in North Vancouver, BC, Dr. Skinner is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Skinner 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. Skinner 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. Skinner 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. Melissa Lynn Skinner earned a Dental Degree. With over 19 years of practice since 2006, Dr. Skinner has cultivated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Skinner is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care, ensuring patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available. This commitment reflects Dr. Skinner's unwavering dedication to professional excellence and a passion for delivering exceptional patient care.

Key aspects of Dr. Skinner's dental practice philosophy include: a dedication to creating beautiful, healthy smiles that enhance both confidence and overall well-being; providing gentle, compassionate care in a comfortable and reassuring environment, especially for anxious patients; a strong emphasis on preventative dentistry and patient education to help maintain lifelong oral health. Dr. Skinner provides consultations in English.

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

Common Dental Issues

• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Investigating and managing bad breath by addressing its underlying dental causes and providing hygiene recommendations.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.
• 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.
• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Wanting to ensure their home care routine is effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.
• 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. Skinner. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Oral Cancer Screening: Proactive examinations as part of your check-up to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer.
• Root Canal Treatment (Non-Surgical Endodontics - Uncomplicated Cases): Performing root canal therapy on infected or irreversibly inflamed tooth pulp (nerve), typically for anterior (front) teeth and premolars in uncomplicated cases, to save the natural tooth from extraction and relieve pain or infection.
• Simple Tooth Extractions (Non-Surgical): Standard tooth removal procedures for non-impacted teeth that do not require complex surgical intervention.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: In-depth examinations using diagnostic tools to evaluate your dental health and detect problems at their earliest stages.
• 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.

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

At Dr. Melissa Lynn Skinner'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. Skinner frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of a dental problem or discomfort that they had been avoiding or putting off addressing for far too long, Dr. Skinner offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their partner reporting less snoring or cessation of breathing pauses during sleep after starting treatment with a dental sleep apnea appliance (facilitated by their dentist). This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet.
• Through Dr. Skinner's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from needing a thorough dental check-up and clearance before starting a major medical treatment or undergoing surgery (e.g., cardiac surgery, organ transplant, chemotherapy) often find they can readily achieve a suspicious white or red patch in their mouth being diagnosed early, leading to effective management and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like no longer needing to frequently visit the dentist for recurring problems due to better preventative care.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing noticing their gums seemed to be receding or pulling away from their teeth, making teeth look longer, involves working systematically towards the inflammation around their dental implant being successfully treated, ensuring its longevity. Dr. Skinner expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including their smile being a positive asset in their personal and professional life.
• Many people seek Dr. Skinner's professional help and expertise when dealing with a persistent toothache that just wouldn't quit for them. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently their smile looking noticeably brighter and whiter after professional whitening treatment, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to delivering important presentations or public speeches with clarity and self-assurance.

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

Dr. Skinner's dental practice is conveniently located in a central location within the North Vancouver neighborhood of North Vancouver, BC. The clinic is situated near local shops and community amenities and is easily accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally available close to the dental office; please observe local signage.

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

Dr. Skinner and our team at the clinic 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. Skinner. They can explore various comfort measures, relaxation techniques, and if necessary, can refer you to a colleague or specialist who provides specific sedation services.

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

In British Columbia, the Medical Services Plan (MSP) typically does 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 by MSP. 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 individuals (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). It's crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to check the details of your private dental insurance before treatment.

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

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

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

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. Skinner.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Skinner will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs and risk factors. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months), while others might have slightly longer intervals between appointments.

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

A General Dentist like Dr. Skinner provides primary dental care for patients of all ages. Services include 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 also offer cosmetic procedures. They also educate patients on oral hygiene and refer to specialists when necessary.

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

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive examination, including a review of your medical and dental history, a thorough check of your teeth and gums, and any necessary X-rays. Dr. Skinner will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and develop a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed during this visit or scheduled soon after.

106 3rd St W
North Vancouver, BC, V7M 1E8

Phone: (604) 988-8168

Dr. Melissa Lynn Skinner 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. Skinner 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.