Orthodontics: It’s not one of the things I do … It’s the only thing I do!
If I was funny enough to be a comedian, life would be easier, as I would be able to make people smile with every sentence or phrase. Not having that kind of talent, though, means I have to help people smile through the months and years of precise, technical, methodical effort we call orthodontics.
I like the challenging nature of the work, using my mind and my hands, but the true reward is in the results: in the smile we create with years of minute adjustments and in the smiles we share working together with our patients, their parents, and my team.
To be sure, there are always challenges that must be overcome every day — but I’ll be back tomorrow, working to find the solutions to create those smiles!
Education and Experience
- Doctorate of Dental Surgery – University of Alberta, 1986
- Diploma in Orthodontics – University of Toronto, 1991
Being an orthodontist means every day brings opportunities to meet and start building relationships with people. It offers a way of connecting with the community on a one-to-one basis, in order to help people change their lives by improving their oral health and increasing their self-esteem. My profession is about creating amazing smiles — and caring about the person who will share that wonderfully unique smile with others, for the rest of their life!
Constantly Learning
Orthodontics is a continually evolving specialty: ongoing research leads to new diagnostic and treatment planning methods, revolutionary technologies, and streamlined processes that improve both the experience and results.
I participate in a wide range of continuing education, both in general dentistry and in the orthodontic specialty, in order to stay current on the latest developments. This allows me to offer and deliver evidence-based treatment that is supported by my 30 years of experience and up-to-date scientific validation.
Professional Affiliations and Activities
In addition to being a fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada, I am an active member of the:
- Canadian Association of Orthodontists
- Canadian Dental Association
- Alberta Society of Orthodontists, past president
- Alberta Dental Association & College
- Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Group Calgary Orthodontics Study Club, founding member
I am also a member of and a volunteer examiner for the Royal College of Dentists of Canada (National Dental Examination Board) in the specialty of orthodontics. In this position, I evaluate dentists who have completed specialty training in orthodontics and who are seeking to be registered as specialists in orthodontics.
Beyond the Practice
I was raised in Edmonton and have lived in Calgary with my wife Diane since 1991. She has been at my side through thick and thin, and is an integral part of the practice.
Diane and I have raised four children into adults with great smiles, and are proud that they have become independent, productive members of society. One works in architecture, another is a teacher, the third is a dentist, and the fourth is an opera singer and a pilot.
So that Diane and I are not too lonely in our empty nest, our children thoughtfully left us a dog and a cat to care for!
If I am not in my office straightening teeth or spending time with family, you will find me at an airport — or somewhere in the skies. I love things that fly! I enjoyed the challenges of learning to fly, and although I can fly planes that can land on water or land, I especially love the three-dimensional freedom of flying helicopters: it is very technical and very precise — just like orthodontics!