MEET US

Meet The Doctor

Walter D. Shields, DDS, MS

Dr. Shields graduated from the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry in 1974, at which time he was honored as the outstanding student in oral medicine.  He served twenty years in the United States Army Dental Corps retiring as a Colonel.  Upon completion of his periodontal training at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Dr. Shields practiced at large military installations and taught his specialty in three residency programs.  He served as the periodontal consultant to the Surgeon General of the Army.  His expertise and efforts were further recognized when he was inducted into the Order of Military Medical Merit.  By the end of his Army career, Dr. Shields had received the Army Commendation Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Legion of Merit.

Dr. Shields is board certified in periodontology.  He has published articles in the Journal of the American Dental Association, the Journal of Periodontology, and the Journal of Military Medicine.  His memberships include the American Dental Association, the Academy of Periodontology, the Academy of Osseointegration, and Torch Club International.  He also was tapped for membership in the International College of Dentists, a leading honorary dental organization dedicated to the recognition of outstanding professional achievement and meritorious service and the continued progress of dentistry for the benefit of all humankind.

In 1994, Dr. Shields established a private periodontal practice in Blacksburg, Virginia.  He focuses on the systemic health of a patient when developing a treatment plan, which involves coordination between periodontal therapy, general dentistry, and medical support as needed.  Advancements that are well documented in professional research and literature are always blended with time-honored therapy.  Dr. Shields has done implant replacements since 1993, resulting in a high level of long-term success.  In recent years, he has begun placing implants at the time of extraction with temporary restorations being immediately available in select cases.

Dr. Shields has shared his passion for dentistry having lectured at academic institutions, and giving presentations to professional and civic organizations.  Currently, he is president of the New River Dental Study Club, which is comprised of the region's general dentists and specialists.  As an adopted Hokie, Dr. Shields serves as an advisor to the Pre-Medical/Pre-Dental Program at Virginia.  He opens his office to Tech students by providing clinical exposure to dentistry through service learning externships.
 
Prior to arrival in Blacksburg, Dr. Shields, his wife Tandy, and their three children lived in many places stateside and abroad.  They chose Blacksburg for its wonderful combination of small town living, university enrichment, and international cultures.  Outside the office, Dr. Shields enjoys hiking, biking, and skiing.