Dr. Edmund Wong
South Point Dental Centre, Surrey, BC
How would you define or summarize your practice philosophy?
My practice philosophy is simple. I’m treating more than just a mouth – I’m caring for a person. By keeping this vision clearly at the forefront, everything else I do falls into place from helping patients make informed decisions about their treatment to giving them a positive experience every step of the way.
What is the one piece of technology you could not work without?
Computers. It’s hard to imagine a life without computers. The massive advancements in this area of technology allows me to do simple everyday things that we sometimes take for granted. For example, digital x-rays that appear on our monitor in seconds. Or 3-D intra-oral scans that replace impressions. And these scans can be sent anywhere in the world in seconds, where a lab can print a model as many times as they want without degradation in quality. It reminds me of Star Trek episodes I used to watch as a kid.
What are the two key qualities you look for in a new team member?
One key quality I look for in a new team member is being empathetic. To truly serve someone, you have to put yourself in their shoes and understand what’s important to them. The second key quality is they must be dedicated and committed to teamwork that will care for patients and create a fulfilling work environment.
What is your biggest day-to-day challenge?
Over the past two years, my biggest day-to-day challenge has been scheduling staff. COVID has taught us to be flexible and resilient. At a moment’s notice, we’ve had to pivot and be resourceful if a team member called in sick. Thankfully, we are part of a network that enables me to tap into alternative, high-quality resources to fill those gaps and limit any downtime.
What have you observed to be the biggest change to the dentistry profession since you began your career?
When I began my career, it was common to see a small, solo dental office open four days per week on the third floor of a professional building. That has shifted now to where it is common to see a large, multiple-dentist office open seven days per week in a high traffic retail area.
What profession, other than your own, would you like to attempt?
I earned a scholarship for music out of high school and continue making music today. I enjoy performing many different styles such as country, rock, worship and orchestral. I’ve often said that if for some reason I could not practice dentistry, I would make a career as a music composer, arranger and recording artist.
Dr. Ed Wong graduated from the Faculty of Dentistry at The University of British Columbia in 1993 and lives in Vancouver. Dr. Wong enjoys building relationships with his patients and giving back to his community through volunteering with the Salvation Army and Union Gospel Mission. He married his high school sweetheart and has twin sons. In his spare time, he enjoys adventure travel around the world. He is also an avid performing and recording musician.
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