By Samantha Ashenhurst
NSDA Communications Manager

Nova Scotia Dentist recently chatted with Dr. Paula MacPherson! A 2008 graduate of the Dalhousie Dental School, Dr. MacPherson opened Southgate Dentistry in Bedford South as a start-up in 2012. In August 2022, she expanded the practice, adding her cousin, Dr. Jacquelyn Scott, to the team. Dr. MacPherson lives in Halifax with her husband, Daryl, and their four kids, Aaron, Eddie, Sam, and Louisa.

1. Why did you pursue dentistry?

My grandfather (Dr. Dinny Morrison) was a dentist and my father (Dr. Archie Morrison) is an oral surgeon, so dentistry was always sort of ‘around.’ Even though I was very aware of it as a career option, it wasn’t something that was discussed much at home.

As I neared the end of my BSc at StFX, I started thinking about my next steps. I knew I wanted to work in healthcare and help people. I loved the idea of dentistry being so hands-on and that it would allow me to work with people to get them out of pain and help ease their fears. I’m entrepreneurial, so the idea of owning a business was very appealing to me, too.

2. What is a skill you’ve always wanted to learn?

I would LOVE to learn how to golf. I’ve been saying this for years and have taken a few lessons. Learning golf requires a lot of time and patience (two things I am lacking!). My husband and kids are golf-lovers so I hope I can join them in the near future!

3. What’s your top destination in Nova Scotia?

If I had to pick a dream spot, it would be in the middle of Grand Lake on a boat. My parents have a cottage on Grand Lake and it’s a great spot to get away in the summer. On a sunny day, sitting on a boat in the large open lake is one of the only ways I truly ever feel relaxed. 

4. Who was your favourite or most inspiring teacher at dental school?

This is a tough one! I had a lot of fantastic teachers in dental school. Merv Creighton and John Cox are two that stick out. I also had the opportunity to be taught by my father, which was pretty memorable. My favourite teacher overall was Rick Raftus. I remember Rick teaching us in prosth lab and also in clinic. He was down to earth, kind, and clearly loved helping us learn.

5. What is one piece of advice that’s stuck with you over time?

The best piece of advice I ever received came from outside of the dental world, but it applies to everyone. A good friend of mine from StFX is from Boston and her father built a successful business from the ground up. When visiting their family home, I asked him about how he grew the business. He said, “I worked my ass off and treated everyone well along the way.” It’s a lesson I always keep in mind and frequently tell my kids.