Sherman Chan, DDS
A Passion for Improving Lives
Dentistry allows me to improve the quality of life for my patients. Whether I am getting them out of pain, preventing a more serious dental problem, or helping them smile with more confidence, they are happier and healthier. I’m proud to use the skills and knowledge I’ve acquired in a meaningful way.
I have a strong interest in science and healthcare. I’m particularly drawn to new technologies and methods that improve on tried-and-true methods, using evidence-based medicine. I take pride in doing a good job and making a positive difference for each patient. If I’m able to help a fearful patient have an enjoyable visit, or help a shy patient smile again, that is making a difference and is the best part of my work.
Practicing dentistry also allows me to meet interesting people who I might otherwise not have met and share stories. Many of my patients come from different cultures and have had experiences in areas I don’t know about. Sharing stories and experiences with them helps give me a broader perspective on the world. I hope what I share with them does the same.
Education and Continuing Education
- Bachelor of Arts in molecular cell biology, with an emphasis in immunology – University of California at Berkeley
- Doctorate of Dental Surgery – University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, San Francisco
- General practice residency – Veterans Affairs Northern California Health Care System, Mare Island
I’ve taken many hours of continuing education at the University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry, taught by leading researchers and professors. Many of these courses introduced or updated previously known procedures with what is currently found to be most beneficial, and backed by peer-reviewed research.
The courses I’ve taken have given me a different perspective from the training I had in dental school. Unlike many continuing education courses, these are not organized by commercial interests. They are primarily based on research done at UCSF or published in peer-reviewed journals. This enables me to apply unbiased clinical decision-making when I treat my patients.
Professional Memberships
- American Dental Association
- California Dental Association
- Marin County Dental Society
- University of the Pacific School of Dentistry Alumni
Personal Life
I grew up in and now live in San Francisco. My wife and I met as undergrads, in physiology class. She’s also a healthcare professional, and works as a registered nurse. We have a young daughter who’s full of energy and keeps us on our toes.
When I’m not caring for my patients, I enjoy spending time with my family on outings to the park, zoo, or a farmers market. I love skiing when there is snow during the winter. Recently I’ve been going to a fencing gym and learning to fence foil and epee.
I’ve loved food and cooking since I was little. Instead of watching cartoons on Saturday morning, when I was a kid, I used to watch cooking shows on PBS with my mother. Whenever I travel, I concentrate on trying the local cuisine rather than seeing the sights. I feel food is one of the best ways to experience another culture, because it allows to you try local ingredients and experience the history involved in creating the dish.
