Dr. Callum Durward | Pediatric Dentist

About - Dr. Callum Durward

Dr. Callum Durward is a highly distinguished pediatric dentist in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, recognized globally for his contributions to clinical excellence, dental education, and public health. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Durward has dedicated his career to improving the oral health of children across the South East Asian region. Currently serving as a senior consultant at the Roomchang Dental & Aesthetic Hospital, he combines world-class clinical skills with a deep academic background to provide the highest standard of care for young patients.

Dr. Durward's journey in dentistry began in New Zealand, but his passion for community health and specialized pediatric care led him to work in diverse environments, from refugee camps in Thailand to advanced surgical facilities in Australia and New Zealand. His arrival in Cambodia marked a turning point for the nation's dental landscape, where he has been instrumental in training the next generation of dentists as the Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Puthisastra (UP). Patients seeking a board-certified specialist in children's dentistry in Cambodia often look to Dr. Durward for his evidence-based approach and gentle chairside manner.

Key Stats & Information

Years of Experience: 30+ Years of International Practice
Specialization: Pediatric & Preventive Dentistry
Primary Hospital: Roomchang Dental & Aesthetic Hospital
Academic Title: Dean and Professor, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Puthisastra
Languages Spoken: English, Khmer
Board Certification/Specialist Status: Specialist Pediatric Dentist (Australasian Standards)
Accepting New Patients: Yes
Global Impact: Over 80 Scientific Publications and Research Contributions

Advanced Medical Expertise and Specializations

As a leading pediatric dentist in Cambodia, Dr. Callum Durward specializes in the comprehensive management of dental health for infants, children, and adolescents, including those with special healthcare needs. His clinical philosophy is rooted in the belief that early intervention and preventive education are the keys to a lifetime of healthy smiles. Dr. Durward is particularly renowned for his work in "Minimally Invasive Dentistry," a technique that prioritizes the preservation of natural tooth structure while effectively treating decay.

One of Dr. Durward's most significant areas of expertise is the use of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF). This revolutionary treatment allows for the "arrest" or stopping of dental cavities without the need for traditional drilling or injections, which is a major breakthrough for treating young children or those with dental anxiety. His research in this field has influenced oral health policies across Cambodia and the wider region, making high-quality dental care more accessible and less traumatic for pediatric patients.

At Roomchang Dental & Aesthetic Hospital, Dr. Durward works within a state-of-the-art environment. Roomchang is a 10-story ISO-certified facility that adheres to international standards of sterilization and patient safety. By integrating advanced digital imaging and child-friendly clinical protocols, Dr. Durward ensures that every visit to the dentist is a positive experience. His expertise extends beyond the clinic as he serves as a consultant to the Ministry of Health and leads the NGO "One-2-One Cambodia," providing essential dental services to underprivileged children.

Conditions Treated

Dr. Durward provides expert care for a wide range of pediatric dental conditions, ensuring that growth and development are monitored at every stage. Common conditions managed under his supervision include:

Early Childhood Caries (ECC): Management of severe tooth decay in toddlers and young children using both traditional and minimally invasive methods.
Dental Trauma: Immediate and long-term care for cracked, broken, or knocked-out teeth resulting from falls or sports injuries.
Congenital Dental Anomalies: Treatment of conditions present from birth, such as cleft lip and palate-related dental issues.
Malocclusion & Crowding: Early assessment and interceptive orthodontics to guide the eruption of permanent teeth.
Pediatric Gingivitis: Management of gum inflammation and oral hygiene education tailored for children.
Enamel Hypoplasia: Treating defects in the development of tooth enamel to prevent sensitivity and decay.

Procedures Performed

Utilizing the latest technology and techniques, Dr. Durward performs a variety of specialized pediatric procedures designed to restore and maintain children's oral health:

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) Application: A needle-free, non-invasive treatment to stop the progression of cavities.
Pediatric Dental Fillings: Using tooth-colored composite resins that are safe and aesthetically pleasing.
Pulp Therapy (Pulpotomy): Often referred to as a "baby tooth root canal," this procedure saves a severely decayed tooth from extraction.
Stainless Steel & Esthetic Crowns: Durable solutions for primary teeth that have extensive decay or have undergone pulp therapy.
Space Maintainers: Custom appliances used when a primary tooth is lost early, ensuring there is room for the permanent tooth to grow.
Preventive Sealants: Applying a thin, protective coating to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent future decay.
Emergency Dental Care: Rapid intervention for acute toothaches or dental injuries.

Education and Training

Dr. Callum Durward possesses an impressive academic background, with degrees from some of the world's most prestigious institutions. His global training has equipped him with a unique perspective on both clinical dentistry and public health management.

Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS): University of Otago, New Zealand (1981).
Master of Dental Science (MDSc) in Children’s and Preventive Dentistry: University of Melbourne, Australia.
Master of Public Health (MPH): University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA.
PhD Research & Advanced Fellowships: Extensive research focus on Early Childhood Caries and community dental interventions.

Beyond his formal degrees, Dr. Durward has held numerous senior positions that reflect his status as an expert. He has served as a Consultant Paediatric Dentist for the Auckland District Health Board and a Senior Lecturer at the University of Otago. His commitment to education continues today through his role as the Dean at the University of Puthisastra, where he leads the faculty in clinical research and academic excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why should I take my child to a specialist pediatric dentist in Phnom Penh?

A specialist pediatric dentist like Dr. Callum Durward has several years of additional training beyond general dentistry, focusing specifically on the physical and emotional development of children. This specialization allows them to manage complex cases, handle dental anxiety with child-friendly techniques, and provide treatments like SDF that general dentists may not offer. Choosing a specialist ensures your child receives age-appropriate care in an environment designed specifically for their comfort.

What is the "Minimum Intervention" approach Dr. Durward uses?

Minimal Intervention Dentistry (MID) focuses on saving as much of the natural tooth as possible. Dr. Durward utilizes techniques such as Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) and fissure sealants to manage decay without the need for aggressive drilling. This approach is ideal for children as it reduces the need for local anesthesia (injections) and preserves the structural integrity of primary teeth, which are essential for guiding permanent teeth into their correct positions.

At what age should my child have their first dental visit?

Following international guidelines, Dr. Durward recommends that a child should have their first dental visit by their first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth erupting. Early visits are crucial for establishing a "dental home," allowing the dentist to monitor growth, provide preventive fluoride treatments, and offer nutritional guidance to parents to prevent Early Childhood Caries (ECC) before they start.

Does Dr. Durward treat children with dental anxiety or phobias?

Yes, managing dental anxiety is a core part of Dr. Durward's practice. By using "Tell-Show-Do" techniques, non-invasive treatment options like SDF, and the child-friendly atmosphere of Roomchang Dental Hospital, he helps children feel safe and in control. His decades of experience allow him to build trust with even the most nervous patients, often eliminating the need for sedation through positive reinforcement and gentle care.

What are the benefits of choosing Roomchang Dental & Aesthetic Hospital?

Roomchang is one of the largest and most advanced dental hospitals in Asia. It is ISO 9001 certified, ensuring that international standards of hygiene and patient care are strictly followed. For pediatric patients, this means access to the latest digital X-rays (which use lower radiation), high-quality materials, and a multi-disciplinary team of specialists who can collaborate on complex cases, all within a modern, 10-story facility in the heart of Phnom Penh.

What is Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) and is it safe for my child?

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is an FDA-approved liquid used to stop the progression of cavities. The silver acts as an antimicrobial agent, while the fluoride strengthens the tooth. It is exceptionally safe and has been used globally for decades. While it can darken the decayed area of the tooth, it is often preferred by parents and Dr. Durward as a non-surgical way to manage decay in young children without the trauma of a drill.

How can I prevent cavities in my child's primary teeth?

Dr. Durward emphasizes a combination of proper home care and professional prevention. This includes brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste (1,000-1,500 ppm), reducing sugary snacks and drinks, and attending regular 6-month check-ups. During these visits, Dr. Durward may apply fluoride varnish or dental sealants to provide an extra layer of protection against the bacteria that cause decay.

Does Dr. Durward treat children with special needs?

As a specialist pediatric dentist, Dr. Callum Durward is highly experienced in treating children with various physical, developmental, or cognitive disabilities. He understands the unique challenges these patients may face and adapts his clinical approach to ensure they receive high-quality dental care in a patient and supportive environment. His work with NGOs like One-2-One has further deepened his expertise in this vital area of dentistry.

Is dental care for children in Cambodia comparable to Western standards?

When seeking care from a specialist like Dr. Durward at an ISO-certified facility like Roomchang, the standards of care are equivalent to or exceed those found in many Western countries. Dr. Durward’s training from New Zealand, Australia, and the US ensures that he follows evidence-based protocols, while Roomchang’s investment in technology provides a level of care that meets the highest international benchmarks.

Can Dr. Durward help with my child's thumb-sucking habit?

Yes, Dr. Durward can assess the impact of prolonged habits like thumb-sucking or pacifier use on the development of the jaw and teeth. He provides supportive counseling for parents and children and, if necessary, can design custom dental appliances to help the child break the habit and guide the teeth back into their proper alignment.

Ready to Secure Your Child's Smile with Dr. Callum Durward?

Choosing the right dentist for your child is a decision that affects their health and confidence for years to come. Dr. Callum Durward offers a unique combination of international expertise, advanced research, and a compassionate approach that makes him the premier choice for pediatric dentistry in Cambodia. PlacidWay partners with world-class specialists like Dr. Durward to ensure you have access to the best dental care in Phnom Penh.

Contact PlacidWay today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Callum Durward at Roomchang Dental & Aesthetic Hospital. Whether you are a local resident or a medical tourist seeking high-quality dental solutions, we are here to help you navigate your journey toward excellent oral health for your family.

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Dr. Callum Durward, Pediatric Dentist - Phnom Penh, Cambodia