Doctor Spotlight: Dr. Giovanna D’Alfonso of Aarm Dental on Hornby
Dr. D’Alfonso graduated from the UBC School of Dentistry in 1997 and did her undergrad in Pharmacy. She has been involved in numerous study clubs, most enduringly the City Core Endodontic Study Club where she is mastering difficult root canals. Her practice at the Hornby location has evolved over the past nine years and presently she is performing many esthetic procedures along with general Dentistry. Also, the pediatric population of her practice has delightedly increased tenfold. Outside the dental office, she enjoys playing the piano, reading, working out, entertaining, and traveling. Aside from English she speaks fluent Italian and conversational French and Spanish.
Dr. D’Alfonso, why dentistry? What inspired you to become a dentist?
“The patience and kindness of my childhood dentist.”
Within the field, is there a favourite part of practicing dentistry?
“Meeting and getting to know my patients from whom I learn so much.”
Dr. D’Alfonso, going to the dentist can sometime be intimidating? What’s a common misconception of dentistry?
“The most common misconception is that if there is no pain, there is no problem. Prevention is always key.”
Dr. D’Alfonso, you practice in two languages: Italian and English. What is the role of multi-lingual dentistry in terms of accessibility of health care?
“Dental problems and complex and nuanced. Trying to thoroughly understand a diagnosis in a language you don’t know or are just learning, can be daunting. I am happy to explain treatments plans to native Italian speakers in Italian. I feel it can relieve some anxiety and lead to a deeper understanding of their dental needs.”
I know that humanitarian work and education are two themes of your practice, could you speak to your involvement with educating the next generation of dentists and your involvement with community give back?
“I am part time faculty at UBC helping 3rd and 4th year students apply theory to real patients. I’ve travelled to Central America and taught dental hygiene in schools and orphanages. I work with organizations involved with helping residents and the homeless community of the DTES get dental supplies. I have donated my time in helping with oral screening in the community.”
At Aarm Dental Group, our motto is patient-centered dental care. What does this mean to you and how do you exemplify this mindset in your practice?
“Patient centered care means tailoring the treatment plan to cater to a patient’s unique needs given the circumstances in their lives. The same dental “need” can assume a different priority level in unique individuals.”
Dr. D’Alfonso, what’s something that all patients should do to improve the quality of their oral health?
“Ask questions.”
Outside of your practice, what inspires you?
“Children, and music.”
Dr. D’Alfonso, you are an owner at Aarm Dental Group on Hornby. We always say we’re in your neighbourhood to make you smile. How would you describe downtown Vancouver and the Davie village?
“Diverse and energetic.”
What is your favourite part of practicing within downtown Vancouver?
“Most definitely the people.”
I think Vancouver has some fantastic neighbourhoods and communities. What makes the Davie village unique?
“The diversity of the people and the juxtaposition of iconic and brand new establishments.”
What's a neighbourhood staple?
“Change”
Being a local Vancouver dentist, and practicing for so long within downtown Vancouver, you must have a couple stomping ground. What are your favourite restaurants in the Davie village?
“ A couple places come to mind, I love ll Giardino, Nando’s for a quick bite, and a Vancouver staple: Breka. For coffee, my favourite place is JJ Bean; and for after work drinks Parker Rooftop ”
