Dr. Neda Rafati
Arbutus North Dental, Vancouver, British Columbia
How would you define or summarize your practice philosophy?
My practice philosophy is going above and beyond for our practice team, patients and community. Providing the best customer service experience and being a positive contributing community member are key vision points for us. One of our patients said it best, “Arbutus North Dental provides humanizing oral health care in Kitsilano,” and that made our day.
What is one thing you know now that you wish you had known at the start of your career?
One thing I wish I knew at the beginning of my career is the importance of investing in myself early on to improve my treatment planning skills. Dental school teaches you the basics but growing as a dentist starts after graduation. Having a great mentor is also key. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and invest in continuing education opportunities often.
What are the two key qualities you look for in a new team member?
I always look for people skills, which is in line with our practice philosophy of going above and beyond for our patients every time. We genuinely take the time to build relationships with generations of patients and our team truly cares about delivering an exceptional patient experience.
What is the most important piece of advice you would give to a new business owner?
Ask for help when it comes to the business of running a practice. We are not taught anything about the business aspect of dentistry in school. So don’t be shy to ask for help from people who are clinic owners and consult with a business coach or consider partnering with a DSO. They have the resources to help you optimize your investment.
What would you consider your greatest achievement?
My greatest achievement is helping my patients be more confident with their newly transformed smile. Bringing health and beauty to my patients has truly been a joy and the reason I love what I do. One of the best complements I have gotten is “I walk taller because of my smile.”
What have you observed to be the biggest change to the dentistry profession since you began your career?
The biggest change has been the new laser and digital technology in dentistry. I love embracing and utilizing technology to deliver the best dental care to our patients. I also see the power of social media and how it has transformed how we can educate a larger audience than before.
What profession, other than your own, would you like to attempt?
I’d like to be a professional coach and mentor, where I could help other professional women realize their dreams and reach their full potential. Helping others realize that we can finally have it all – a fulfilling career and a family life. There’s no need to choose or sacrifice one for another.
Dr. Rafati graduated in 2010 from UBC Dentistry, where she was on the dean’s list and part of the Golden Key Society. She joined the Arbutus North Dental team as an Associate Dentist and is now the proud owner of the clinic. Dr. Rafati believes in investing in dental technology and continuing education to deliver optimal patient care to her patients. She lives in Kitsilano with her husband and son, and loves to support the community any way she can.
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