Meet Our Team

A true aesthetic dentistry professional, Dr. Shafiq Kara is well-known for his exceptional work in maintaining and creating healthy, stunning smiles. Dr. Kara graduated as the valedictorian from the University of Western Ontario Faculty of Dentistry in 2004. Since then, he has spent countless hours traveling across North America to learn from the best cosmetic, restorative and specialist dentists.

From advanced Invisalign treatment to complete smile restoration, Dr. Kara is dedicated to providing clinical and aesthetic expertise. Friendly, caring and personable, Dr. Kara is passionate about complex smile design and reconstruction as well as dental implant and sedation dentistry. Dr. Kara’s credentials and memberships include:

• Scottsdale Center for Dentistry Faculty Member
• Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation Member and Fellowship Candidate
• Invisalign® Provider
• Clinical Instructor U.B.C Dental Program
• Botox Cosmetic® Provider
• Team Dentist Langley Rivermen Junior A Hockey Club

Outside of the dental clinic, Dr. Kara is a strong believer in supporting the local community. As the founder of the Jasmine Foundation, he works to give hope to those in need in the local Coquitlam neighborhood.

“I‘m honoured to work with a dedicated team that delivers the highest level of care available, and to see the difference dentistry and sedation dentistry makes in people’s lives. I’m especially proud our team is non-judgemental with our patients, a philosophy that begins with the first conversation on the phone or in-person, and continues throughout a patient’s care for many years.”

Having worked in dentistry since 2005, Shainaz genuinely cares for people and patients often remark on the warmth and compassion they feel from her with every interaction. Always happy to help, Shainaz excels at helping our patients coordinate appointments and benefits with their specific treatment needs.

Outside of the office, Shainaz’s volunteer work with her church is focused on empowering youth in leadership. A lifelong learner, Shainaz is inspired by many teachers; Ghandi, Obama and Oprah to name a few. She also enjoys the outdoors, walking, reading and time with her husband and two daughters.

“It’s been so gratifying to work with such an outstanding team of individuals at CGS! A positive, accessible Dental Home is so vital not only for oral health but overall well-being; patients should feel valued and trust they are in good hands without feeling judged or criticized. I definitely feel our office reflects that ideal Dental Home.”

Diane became a Registered Hygienist after graduating from the University of Manitoba School of Dental Hygiene in 2015. Whether she is seeing familiar faces or welcoming those who are new to the office, Diane is committed to helping people achieve happy, healthy smiles! Diane places a strong emphasis on providing patients with compassionate, comprehensive care suited to meet their individual needs and goals. She takes pride in her role of oral health promotion and disease prevention, staying current on new products, innovations and research in the dental industry.

“It’s been a pleasure working with such an amazing team where we all have a similar vision in serving patients and taking good care of them from initial treatment to the final outcome”

Priyanka brings 10 years of experience in dental assisting to CGS dentistry!  She consistently ensures that all patients are treated with respect and have a pleasant experience each time they visit the office.  Priyanka strives to maintain patient comfort during all dental procedures and has an excellent rapport with children having had a background in early childhood care. During her free time, Priyanka enjoys spending time with her two kids and husband as well as staying active with yoga and running!

“I love to see the changes in our patients’ confidence that come with the great work we perform.  Seeing the reaction of a patient is what confirms my decision to work in this great profession.”

 Darlene became a Certified Dental Assistant in 2004 after graduating from Douglas College and has been working in the profession ever since.  She loves seeing the impact that our dental care can have on people’s day-to-day lives.  Darlene excels at developing a rapport with people and her calm demeanour ensures that our patients are comfortable during their visits.

 Darlene enjoys keeping fit, reading, and spending time with her family.

Sparkles the Toothfairy brings smiles and happiness to kids and parents alike.

She encourages tooth care and healthy foods in conversations with children, and makes special appearances at family fun events such as CGS Magical Afternoons and the Teddy Bear’s Picnic & Parade in Coquitlam.