Dr. Andrew Sweet

When I moved to Victoria in 2010 after graduating from dental school, I only knew one person. I sought to rebuild my social circle and start building professional relationships. Anyone who has ever moved to a new city with little social connections can empathize with this situation. I was encouraged to join the Victoria and District Dental Society by multiple other dentists as a way to network and meet other dentists in the city. Now, 12 years later, I am thankful I joined; the VDDS has opened doors for me that could have taken many more years without the Society’s help. Mentorship, social events and continuing education are just the beginning of what the VDDS has to offer.

 

Over the last three years, our members have persevered through one of the most unsettling and anxious periods in the history of organized dentistry. I am thankful for the collaboration and support that the dentists on Vancouver Island gave one another during this time. Now that we are starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel, I feel it is the right time to renew our commitment to in-person learning and peer-to-peer interaction. As always, our scientific committee has worked hard to curate an outstanding group of speakers for the upcoming year. The Social Committee is working extensively to organize a slate of enjoyable social events that appeal to everyone. Our mentorship program is also available to link new dentists with more experienced dentists in Victoria to help guide them in what can be a very isolating profession.

 

The cornerstone of the VDDS is the business meetings. Business meetings allow members to stay informed on what is impacting our profession and express their views on topics related to organized dentistry. Due to the current changes in the College of Dental Surgeons, the British Columbia Dental Association and new federal investment in dentistry - it is more important than ever that we share our collective voice as the climate in dentistry continues to evolve. Our business meetings provide a relaxed venue to interact with members of both provincial organizations and stay up-to-date on other issues arising in dentistry.

 

The Dental Society has been and will continue to be a hub for the dentists of Vancouver Island. No matter what stage of your career, whether a specialist or general practitioner, the VDDS has benefits for everyone. I welcome all the returning members to the Society, and I encourage you to promote our benefits to other non-member dentists. If you are new to the area or the profession, I think you have picked a great place to live and practice; we look forward to seeing you in September!

 

Thank you for the opportunity, and I am excited to work with the members over the next year.

 

Sincerely,

Dr. Andrew Sweet

2022-2023 President, VDDS