Meet Our Dentists

Get to know the experienced, caring dentists who lead New Chapter Dentistry. Dr. Joseph Vanfleteren and Dr. Michael Learman bring complementary skills and a shared commitment to exceptional patient care.

Dr. Joseph Vanfleteren Jr.

Dr. Vanfleteren has more than 10 years of experience preserving and transforming teeth through compassionate and personalized dentistry. He graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry and was the only dental student from the Midwest that year to be chosen as a National Health Service Corps Scholar.

He believes every smile tells a story and is dedicated to delivering exceptional dental care that empowers patients and the community to shine with confidence. By treating the whole person–not just their oral health–he fosters total wellness, helping each patient craft their unique narrative through a radiant, healthy smile.

With a passion for life-long learning, Dr. Vanfleteren has completed over 500 hours of continuing education to nurture his diverse dentistry skillset. He also volunteers his time and expertise for Delta College's Hygiene Advisory Board, is a Pankey certified dentist, and was an adjunct professor for the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in a previous role.

Dr. Vanfleteren resides in Bay City with his wife, Lindsay, and their four children. He enjoys being a coach for his kids' local sports teams, with his motto always being "be kind, work hard, and have fun!" In his free time he also loves to play strategy board games, attend concerts, cheer on the MSU Spartans, and read a too-good-to-put-down book!

Group photo of Dr Joe Vanfleteren Jr. with his wife and four children inside a dental office, smiling at the camera.
Dr Learman, wearing a black dental uniform with the logo of New Chapter Dentistry and the name Dr. Learman, smiling against a gray background.

Dr. Michael Learman

Dr. Learman has over 40 years of experience. He graduated from Marquette University in Milwaukee and has obtained over 700 hours of continuing education.

In 2005, he became a certified Bioesthetic Dentist through the OBI Foundation. His passion and expertise lie within full mouth comprehensive cosmetic cases, one of which was published in, “The Function of Teeth” by Lundeen and Gibbs.

In his spare time, Dr. Learman enjoys spending time with his family boating on the Saginaw Bay and is an avid outdoorsman during all seasons. He loves to hunt, fish, and is always perfecting his golf game.

Ready to Write Your Next Chapter?

Contact us today to schedule your visit.

New patients are always welcome!

Call or Text
989-667-5630

Hours
Mon–Thu: 8am–5pm
Friday: Limited Availability Select Dates
Sat–Sun: Closed

Location
4141 Shrestha Dr.
Bay City, MI 48706