Steve Mark Gan, Chairman and CEO of Gan Advanced Osseointegration Center (GAOC), is revolutionizing dental care in the Philippines with his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality. His journey from humble beginnings to establishing one of the country’s premier dental institutions is an inspiring tale of dedication, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Gan’s mission began with a vision to change the perception of dentistry in the Philippines. He recognized that dental care had long been seen as something “scary and boring,” and set out to make it a more desirable, fashionable, and integral part of people’s lifestyle. Through his leadership, GAOC has reshaped the dental landscape, transforming the clinic experience and making dental care more accessible and comfortable.
From Humble Beginnings to National Success
Gan’s entrepreneurial spirit emerged early in life. At just 10 years old, he was already exploring the world of business, selling lemonade, comic books, and later venturing into music production. After returning to the Philippines in 1998, he began his dental career with only $90 and a second-hand dental chair. His early years were filled with hard work, determination, and a refusal to stop, even without a holiday until 2006.
Over time, Gan managed to build the first GAOC clinic, a modest but state-of-the-art 60-square-meter office. Through his dedication and hard work, GAOC has grown into a national leader in dental care, with 20 Novodental branches and expansion plans on the horizon. GAOC’s services now encompass a wide range of dental care, from premium treatments to orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, and more. Their commitment to providing high-quality care extends to their partnerships with companies like GanTech Industries and the Samurai Dental Laboratory, which services over 4,500 clients.
A Vision for the Future
Gan’s vision extends beyond simply offering exceptional dental services. Over the next five years, he plans to expand the Novodental network to 100 branches and open 10 new Children’s Dental Centers. Additionally, the company is broadening its scope into other sectors, including imaging and dermatology.
A key part of GAOC’s success lies in its emphasis on continuous education and technological innovation. Gan’s collaboration with world-class dental experts and his establishment of the GAOC Academy are helping to elevate the standards of dental practice in the Philippines. Furthermore, the company is integrating cutting-edge technologies, such as AI and robotics, to ensure they remain at the forefront of dental advancements.
Corporate Culture Built on Excellence
Gan attributes much of GAOC’s success to its focus on consistency, communication, and commitment – values he believes are essential to ensuring success at every level of the organization. This commitment extends not only to patient care but also to employee development. Gan places a strong emphasis on providing the best training and support for his team, ensuring that every member of the GAOC family shares the same passion for excellence.
Giving Back to the Community
As a visionary leader, Gan also believes in giving back to the community. Through the GAOC Foundation, he offers free cleft surgeries and subsidized education for employees’ children, helping to address the significant health and educational challenges faced by many Filipinos. Gan’s charity program aims to perform 100 cleft surgeries annually, with plans to increase this number in the future.
A Lasting Legacy
Steve Mark Gan’s passion for dentistry and commitment to excellence are not only transforming the dental industry in the Philippines but also inspiring others to follow his example. By building a world-class dental institution, giving back to the community, and constantly pushing the boundaries of dental care, Gan is leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to shape the future of dental care in the country for years to come.
Related topics:
Dentists Warn of ‘Prosecco Teeth’: The Hidden Risk to Your Smile This New Year
Debate Ignited Over Hygiene Standards After Woman Questions Partner’s Dental Habits
Spain to Introduce Free Dental Care on National Health Service from 2025