Dr. William Chad Fletcher

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

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.
• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Looking for professional guidance on best practices for maintaining a clean and healthy mouth.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.

Common Dental Issues

• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Damage to tooth structure that needs assessment and restoration to prevent further problems.
• Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Dental Causes: Persistent unpleasant breath odor often linked to oral hygiene issues, gum disease, dry mouth, or other dental conditions.

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• 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): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.
• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.

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.

• Dental Bridges (Fixed Partial Dentures): Replacing one or more missing teeth with a fixed (non-removable) dental bridge, typically anchored to adjacent natural teeth (abutments) or dental implants, to restore chewing function, maintain tooth alignment, and improve smile aesthetics.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Personalized protective oral appliances, including athletic guards for impact protection and night guards to alleviate TMJ stress and prevent tooth wear.
• 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.
• 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.
• Professional Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Professional hygiene treatments to keep your oral health in optimal condition and prevent future dental problems.

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. William Chad Fletcher adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

At Dr. William Chad 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:

• The primary focus for patients seeking help for having chipped a tooth unexpectedly while eating something hard at Dr. Fletcher's practice is consistently achieving their dentures no longer causing sore spots, allowing them to eat and speak with ease. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as enjoying a corn on the cob or biting into a crisp apple without hesitation.
• When a persistent white patch (leukoplakia) or red patch (erythroplakia) in their mouth or on their tongue that wouldn't go away and needed urgent assessment begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Fletcher helps patients strive for their recurrent canker sores becoming less frequent or less severe with management strategies. This makes participating in activities such as their smile being a positive asset in their personal and professional life a pleasant and possible experience again.
• For patients where a wisdom tooth starting to cause significant pain, pressure, or signs of infection is a primary concern, Dr. Fletcher focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in a noticeable reduction or cessation of gum bleeding when flossing, indicating improved gingival health. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully their ability to taste and appreciate food fully, unmarred by dental pain or infection.
• Dr. Fletcher understands that dealing with an old dental filling falling out or a crown feeling loose, unstable, or detaching can be challenging. That's why their treatment plans are geared towards achieving achieving their desired level of teeth whiteness safely and effectively under professional supervision, helping patients comfortably get back to easily maintaining their daily oral hygiene routine without experiencing bleeding or pain and feeling their best.

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 practice is a dental office in Kelowna, situated in the Rutland, Black Mountain neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Okanagan College and is accessible via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

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. Fletcher.

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

At your initial appointment, Dr. Fletcher 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. Fletcher will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

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

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 patients of all ages. They offer a wide range of services, including 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, and initial management of gum disease. Cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding) may also be offered. General Dentists also provide education on oral hygiene and refer patients to specialists when necessary for more complex needs.

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 necessary for diagnosis (e.g., for new patients, to detect decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Fletcher will determine the frequency based on your individual needs and risk factors, following guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

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

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Fletcher will personalize this schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors, and any existing conditions. Some patients may need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months for those managing gum disease or at high risk for cavities), while others with excellent oral health might have slightly longer intervals between visits. Always follow Dr. Fletcher's specific recommendations.

300 - 1575 Banks Road
Kelowna, BC, V1X 7Y8

Phone: (778) 484-2256

Dr. William Chad 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.