Chairside Chats: A Word With…Dr. Bobby Birdi

Dr. Bobby Birdi

BC Perio, Vancouver and Coquitlam, BC

What is one thing you know now that you wish you had known at the start of your career?

I wish I had known the true power and knowledge associated with having a dental laboratory. We’ve had our own full service digital dental laboratory for the last 4+ years and it has truly changed my outlook on dentistry and how I practice every day. Working with our laboratory colleagues has been nothing but rewarding, educational and exciting.

What are the two key qualities you look for in a new team member?

The first and only important key quality that we look for in a new team member is “are they dynamic?” Being dynamic is defined by having a positive personality and outlook on life while being open to change and sharing/learning new ideas. I feel very proud to know that I have a very dynamic team that is continually growing and improving themselves.

What is the one piece of technology you could not work without?

Of all the pieces of technology we have in our offices, our Cone-Beam CT Scan machine is by far the one tool that I would have a hard time practicing without. It allows us to properly plan, diagnose and evaluate the results of our cases. CBCT technology is such an amazing and multi-faceted tool that is greatly underutilized in our profession.

What is the most important piece of advice you would give to a new practitioner?

The most important piece of advice that I would give new business owners/practitioners is to understand that your careers will be long and not to sweat the little things. Remember to see the forest from the trees and not micromanage things. Concentrate on creating a positive, productive environment with a fun culture!

What is your biggest day-to-day challenge?

My biggest day-to-day challenge is always trying my best to find a good work-life balance. I am truly passionate about dentistry, but I’m just as passionate about being a father. There is always a constant power and time struggle there that I have to finesse on a day-to-day basis.

What have you observed to be the biggest change to the dentistry profession since you began your career?

One of the largest changes in dentistry as a profession is the patient’s behaviour and how they are informed about choosing a practice/clinician, as well as how they are informed about a procedure. The internet has brought reviews and a plethora of information on all topics in dentistry that are available to all. This makes our jobs as clinicians more challenging, but also more rewarding at times.


Dr. Bobby Birdi received his dental degree from the University of Saskatchewan and his post-graduate specialty training in both periodontics and prosthodontics from the University of Minnesota. Dr. Bobby Birdi is the owner of BC Perio in Vancouver and Coquitlam. Dr. Birdi is the father of 3 young children and is currently the President of the Western Society of Periodontology and the incoming President of the Vancouver District Dental Society.


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