Pursuit 365 Day 240: Sam Winter

“I love being a dentist. I look forward to coming to work with my staff, helping generations of our patients, and meeting new people from all over the world. I volunteer my time and skills helping those less fortunate; always remembering the random kindness of others that have blessed me with citizenship, family, friendships, and the profession I have dedicated my life to. I always tell my patients that they only need to brush the teeth they want to keep.” Dr. Sam Winter

Q. If you could give your younger self some advice, what would you tell yourself?

I would remind myself to always look at the bright side regardless of the circumstances. Being optimistic and appreciative allowed me to become a devoted husband, father, grandfather, respected medical professional, and a mensch.

Growing up with Holocaust survivor parents, not knowing a word of English until I started kindergarten, being stateless until I was nine years old plus being 1-3 years younger than my peers from kindergarten through graduating UofA Dentistry in six years instead of eight (with two Jewish dentists yearly quota), was not exactly a “normal” childhood. The responsibilities I had to take on were always way beyond my years. I was not aware of the magnitude of it, because most of our family friends came from similar backgrounds: losing so much and so many during the war. Our lives in Canada meant making many more sacrifices. Even moving forward, our families were forever bound to their past. Learning to be grateful for who I am and what I have, is something money could never buy.

Q. What was your inspiration and your #1 priority in your career?

I loved doing things with my hands, solving problems with long-term solutions, and giving back, as others had done for my family. A career counselor told me I would be happiest as a dentist. The rest is history. I was excited to start, and I’m still excited to go to work. There is so much more to dentistry than helping people keep their own teeth. We are instrumental in diagnosing many other medical conditions, and a safe place to share other concerns.

It’s my desire to help others and serve with excellence, compassion, and pride in my craft while creating an easy atmosphere for staff and patients. I am grateful for our dedicated, experienced staff, creating the kind of positive and supportive atmosphere for our patients that can only come from a caring team. During COVID-19, there are many more stressors: from extra layers of protective gear to the highest safety protocols we prioritize. Our rewards are the aesthetic and psychological effects of seeing people able to chew again, pain-free, and happy to smile again. I’m honoured that my patients call me the “gentle dentist.” I am proud to prioritize the important quality of life benefits, especially for newcomers like we were. One smile at a time.

Q. What puts a smile on your face?

Walking, good food and good books. Riding my bike to work clears my head. Seeing our family and friends. Experiencing the thrill and joys of travel again will absolutely make me smile!

Q. Do you take new patients? What types of dentistry do you do?

We welcome new patients and accept all major insurance coverage. With prearranged approval from the insurer, our patients only need to cover their deductible or amounts over their annual cap. We never surcharge over standard dental fee-guide rates in British Columbia. It’s important to ensure that everyone has access to dental care. We choose the best restorative dentistry procedures suited to your needs: composite fillings, crown and bridge as well as implants and extractions, root canals, plus full and partial dentures. Our labs are right in the Fairmont Building, providing the best service for our patients.

We welcome consultations, especially if you need a second opinion regarding suggested complex procedures. Our hygienists share the best techniques for your oral hygiene to ensure optimal overall health. We understand that many people have postponed regular dental routines and many dentists have retired during the pandemic.

Our office is conveniently located at 1001-750 West Broadway (Fairmont Medical Building) in Vancouver. The Canada Line, Cambie Station, Skytrain, bicycle, bus, on-site, and limited free parking are available nearby. Office hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 am-5 pm. We want to give you every reason to smile!