University District Neighbour Profile: Dr. Jan Jaffer of U/D Dental

University District’s Noteworthy in the Northwest series focuses on dynamic and compelling individuals and organizations from around Calgary’s Northwest, offering insights across a range of topics and each contributing to describing the spirit, opportunities, and legacy of the Northwest.

We sat down with Dr. Jan Jaffer, managing partner of TREC Dental and a Northwest Calgary native, to speak about its future U/D dental clinic, the diverse retail and housing options our thriving community adds to the Northwest’s evolving landscape, and tips to keep smiles vibrant, healthy and beautiful!

Let’s explore your background – how did you arrive where you are as managing partner of TREC Dental, which includes multiple practices in Northwest Calgary including the future University District Dental?

For me, inspiration struck close to home. Following in my parent’s footsteps and joining the dental industry was a natural progression.

After graduating from high school, I moved to San Francisco to join an accelerated dental program. Upon completion, I found myself right back in Northwest Calgary building on the great reputation of my parent’s practice in Ranchlands.  In 2004, I was fortunate enough to open a second clinic in the neighbouring community Royal Oak.

Over time we found the right people that wanted to work with us to help them do better dentistry. Born was TREC Dental! We help dentists manage their clinic so they can focus on what they do best – taking care of patients without worrying about the sometimes messy details of the business!

Jason Evanson, CEO for Ronald McDonald House Charities Southern and Central Alberta (RMHC) says the community spirit in Northwest Calgary is alive and well. We couldn’t agree more! Keep reading here to see what he has to say about the power of community, what it’s like having U/D as a neighbour and ways you can get involved with their incredible organization! 

What drew you to this part of the city and how would you describe the business community in the Northwest?

Northwest Calgary has always been home. My parents settled down in Ranchlands when I was two years old after opening their first family dental practice right here in the heart of the community.

Thirty-eight years and 15 clinics later, our flagship practice remains our most successful because of the long-lasting relationships we’ve made with our neighbours. We have patients who have been with us for 35 years!

Even as we have grown, the support we have received from the Northwest for our line of work – treating kids, parents and grandparents, making sure to take care of the entire family — has been remarkable! That’s what we love about this area – its diversity and strong family feel! There’s a welcome mix of residents. From new community members who are putting down roots to long-term families that have grown up in the Northwest and continue to live here.

Long-time Northwest resident and semi-retired community leader Teresa Woo Paw spilled the beans on life as an empty-nester and what U/D adds to Northwest Calgary. Click here to read all the reasons why she loves our corner of the city! 

As a future U/D retailer, what do you think about University District’s addition to Northwest Calgary’s diverse population and community landscape?

It’s incredible! University District is shaking things up and people are taking notice. What once was an empty field across from Market Mall, will now be home to be a vibrant destination that’s making its mark on the city.

When you think about it, U/D is really a community within a community. It offers an inner-city lifestyle to those wanting to be in the heart of it all, next to eclectic bistros, boutique shops, everyday conveniences like U/D Dental, cafes and a grocery store.

I couldn’t be more excited to be part of a community that’s embracing the future, yet is mindful of its neighbouring communities and roots.

NW Calgary fans have a reason to celebrate! A variety of new retailers, including Freshii, YYC Cycle and OEB Breakfast Co have joined University District’s line up and there’s still more to come! Curious to see which other beloved brands are joining our retail community in spring 2020? Find out here. 

Kindness in action! Dr. Jan Jaffer and fellow team members delivering free dental care to rural communities in South America.

U/D Dental will be situated in the heart of Northwest Calgary. How would you describe the atmosphere and spirit of the Northwest and why did you choose University District as the future home to your upcoming dental practice?

There is so much opportunity at U/D. It’s an innovative, forward-looking neighbourhood – a place for young families to thrive, single adults and couples to grow into and ideal for seniors looking for settle down – that’s surrounded by existing established communities like Montgomery and Varsity. You could say it’s a hub of inspiration, connection and energy that knits everyone together!

To me, it’s this diversity and youthful spirit that makes U/D such an appealing location for our upcoming dental practice. Being nestled in an area where you can build meaningful, long-term relationships with new patients from different age groups and backgrounds brings something special to this community that you don’t come across every day.

Did you know Dr. Jan Jaffer was recently awarded the Leaders in Practice for Giving Back Award in Dentistry by Oral Health Magazine? From overseas dental missions to supporting local charities like the Women’s Shelter and Samaritans Purse. TREC Dental is committed to community and their connection runs deep. Read all about Jan’s recent recognition here!

Since you specialize in good oral hygiene, do you have any dental care tips our readers can add to their daily routine for a more thorough clean?

Having a healthy mouth and smile doesn’t take much time and effort, as long as you use the right oral care products and are mindful of your daily habits. Here are my go-to tips for cleaner teeth and healthier gums:

Know when to replace your toothbrush! Invest in a new toothbrush or replacement head for your electric or battery-powered toothbrush every three months to maintain proper oral hygiene. When in doubt, look at the bristles! If they are frayed or bent, they become less effective at cleaning your teeth. Toothbrushes with stiff (not hard!) bristles do the best job!

Good technique is key. A quick wash of your bristles isn’t enough to banish leftover food particles from your late night snack or mid-day sugar feast.  A poor job of brushing your teeth is almost as bad as not brushing at all. Take your time! Use a combination of gentle, circular motions and short back and forth strokes and always remember to brush your tongue. No one wants bad mouth odour!

Drink water after every meal and throughout the day. It’s not only the best beverage for your overall health, but it can also help wash out leftover residue from sticky and acidic foods and beverages in between brushes. Drink up!