Family Dentistry
in Ladysmith, BC
Ladysmith Smiles family dentistry is dedicated to providing the community of Ladysmith, BC with exceptional and accessible dental care. We promise to provide each and every smile with a welcoming, safe and respectful experience. All smiles welcome.
The Story Behind Our Smile
Dr. Nadia Stymiest has been practicing as a general dentist and serving the Nanaimo area since 2013. Her practice includes all aspects of dentistry, with a particular interest in oral surgery, pediatrics and restorative dentistry. Since graduating from Boston University, Nadia has continued to invest in continuing her education with courses such as Invisalign, Nitrous Oxide Sedation and botox.
Being a mom of two herself, Nadia is passionate about creating a safe, friendly environment for young families, all the way through to retired couples. Above all else, Nadia is on a mission to make excellent dental care accessible to every smile in Ladysmith and the surrounding area. Ladysmith Smiles aims to feel like your dental home, a place where you’ll always be treated like family.
Meet Our Team
The Ladysmith Smiles team prides itself on providing exceptional dental care for the Ladysmith community and surrounding area.
Dr. Holly Blaikie, DMD
Dr. Holly Blaikie is thrilled to be rejoining the dynamic team at Ladysmith Smiles. After spending 20 years of her career immersed in the dental health of our community, she is grateful for the chance to return to Ladysmith, help old acquaintances and treat new patients with her characteristic compassion and openness.…
Dr. Blaikie is a graduate of Dalhousie University, where she completed a Bachelor of Science with Honours (BSc) and a Master of Science (MSc) in marine biology before obtaining her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) in 1998. She is an avid painter, house designer, hiker, and gardener. She is also a published author, with a second novel poised to hit the bookshelves.
What makes Dr. Blaikie Smile?
Learning, creating and time spent with her husband and two grown children.
Dr. Heather Cooke, DMD
Dr. Cooke obtained her degree in Microbiology from the University of Victoria before attending the University of British Columbia where she completed her degree in Dentistry. She believes that every patient should fully understand what treatment is being recommended, if there are alternative treatment options, why the treatment is being recommended, and how the…
treatment will be carried out—she believes her patients should be active participants in their own dental care.
What makes Dr. Cooke smile?
Biking or hiking anywhere on this beautiful Island with her husband Matt and her dog Gus, and baking anything and everything at home.
Dr. Michel Rivard, DMD
Dr. Michel Rivard has always been intrigued by the interplay of technical skill and artistry that dentistry provides, but it is his genuine passion for people that truly motivates him in his work.
After completing his studies in Dental Medicine at the Université de Montréal, Dr. Rivard saw an opportunity he simply couldn’t resist—an invitation to join the Smiles team…
and explore the beautiful west coast. Not only does Vancouver Island provide a dynamic environment for his dental practice, it also offers the perfect backdrop for his off-duty adventures.
What makes Dr. Rivard smile?
Feeling helpful in society and having a positive impact in people’s lives.
Dr. Gillian Marvel, DMD
Dr. Gillian Marvel brings a warm and compassionate approach to patient care, with a strong focus on helping people feel comfortable and confident in their oral health. She holds a Bachelor of Life Sciences from Queen’s University and earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Sydney in Australia.,
…
With several years of experience in dentistry in Campbell River, Dr. Marvel enjoys building genuine relationships with her patients and takes pride in making a positive difference in their lives. Whether it’s easing dental anxiety or helping someone smile with confidence, she finds fulfillment in every aspect of her work.
What makes Dr. Marvel Smile? Skiing, running, reading a good book and hanging out with her cat and dog at home.
Dr. Jung Kim, DMD
Dr. Kim has a deep passion for connecting with his patients and making a positive impact—not just on their smiles, but on their overall well-being. He was born in Seoul, Korea, and raised in Vancouver, BC. After graduating from Temple University in Philadelphia, he returned to Canada to practice dentistry. When he isn’t helping his patients smile,…
you’ll find him making his son and twin daughters smile—and enjoying some good Korean food with his wife.
What makes Dr. Kim smile?
Golfing, mountain biking, fitness, and working on his coffee enthusiast status by perfecting his latte art.
Dr. Avdeesh Shetty, DDS
Dr. Avdeesh Shetty, DDS, is a highly qualified dentist who originally trained as a dentist in India. After moving to Canada in 2011, Dr. Shetty gained experience as a dental lab technician and a certified dental assistant before retraining as a certified Canadian dentist at the University of Alberta. His unique dental career has equipped him with vast industry knowledge and a holistic outlook on dentistry.…
Known for his caring and soft-spoken demeanour, Dr. Shetty prides himself on helping his patients cope with their dental phobia and taking the time to listen to their concerns. When he’s not helping his patients smile, you’ll find Dr. Shetty hiking with his wife and their goofy pup, Zoe.
What makes Dr. Shetty smile?
When his team, Manchester United, scores or when eating some good lamb biryani!
Florentin, Chief Operations Manager
Dr. Florentin M. Wilfart, PhD, brings over 15 years of experience in shaping and expanding businesses, particularly within the healthcare sector. Holding a Medical Engineering degree from Germany and a PhD in Biomedical Engineering from Dalhousie University, Canada, Florentin possesses a unique blend of academic knowledge and practical expertise.…
Since relocating to Vancouver Island two years ago, Florentin has been embracing each season on the island and his role within the Smiles team—a role he describes as the perfect intersection of his interests in biomedical engineering, business, and team leadership.
What makes Florentin smile?
When he is not at one of the Smiles Clinics, you’ll find him in nature, boating, skiing, fishing, and exploring with his family.
Joanne, Office Manager & Executive Assistant
Joanne brings a calm and creative presence to the clinic, with a strong focus on organization, patient connection, and a people-first approach. With over a decade of experience working in the international art world—including time in Australia and ten years with a Vancouver-based art dealer representing galleries in Los Angeles—Joanne has a natural ability to handle complex logistics while keeping everything running smoothly..…
Her passion for helping others and her belief in the power of genuine care are evident in her work every day. Joanne first came to the clinic as a parent, bringing her daughter to see Dr. Nadia. That early experience left such a lasting impression that her daughter was later inspired to pursue a career in dentistry herself.
What makes Joanne smile? A healthy, happy family, a good sunset, a steady wind to carry the sails, and sipping hot chocolate in Paris.
Trina, Dental Billings Manager
Trina has worked in dental for 23 years, learning many different aspects of the administrative field. Having moved from Victoria to Ladysmith in September of 2021, she has fallen in love with this amazing community.
Aside from her love for hiking the local trails, Trina also enjoys running daily, and painting.…
What makes Trina smile?
Interacting with the kind, friendly Ladysmith community.
Hesy, Bookkeeper
Justine, Registered Dental Hygienist
Justine was born and raised in the Nanaimo/Ladysmith area and along with her husband, feels fortunate to be raising their three young children on our beautiful island. Justine knew from a young age that she had a desire to be a dental hygienist and graduated top of her class at Vancouver Island University in 2013.…
She has been practicing clinical hygiene ever since.
What makes Justine smile?
Watching her son and twin daughters grow up on the island and date nights with her husband.
Matt, Director of Operations
Ashley, Registered Dental Hygienist
Lindsay, Registered Dental Hygienist
Bryan, Registered Dental Hygienist
Bryan’s love for Vancouver Island is deep rooted. He moved to the island at 16 years old and has been taking full advantage of the unparalleled boating opportunities here ever since. With a passion for community and his parents’ reverence for dentistry, Bryan attended Vancouver Island University, known as…
Malaspina at the time, to obtain his CDA certification.
What makes Bryan smile?
Hiking, boating, playing the guitar, and spending time with his fiancé.
Anita, Certified Dental Assistant
Anita, a VIU graduate, was born and raised on Vancouver Island but spent time in England and on the mainland before happily returning to her island home. She appreciates the island’s beautiful oceans, lakes, and lack of traffic jams. With 41 years in dentistry, inspired by her own orthodontic experiences as a child, Anita is dedicated to her work.…
Outside of the office, she enjoys spending time with her family and granddaughter.
What makes Anita smile?
Her wonderful colleagues and the opportunity to help her patients.
Sara, Registered Dental Hygienist
Kirstin, Register Dental Hygienist
Taylor, Certified Dental Assistant
Jackie, Certified Dental Assistant
Born in Duncan, Jackie is an island girl at her core. She attended Vancouver Island University, graduating in 2012, before starting her career in dentistry. When she’s not making her patients smile, Jackie can be found exploring Vancouver Island’s beautiful forests with her two sons.…
What makes Jackie smile?
Spending time with her family in nature hiking, camping, or boating.
Brianna, Certified Dental Assistant
Born and raised in the Ladysmith area, Brianna moved to Prince George and graduated from the CDA program at College of New Caledonia in 2014. She’s been happily back in the milder island climate since.
What makes Brianna smile?
…
A sunny day of walking the trails, golfing, or slow cruises on the boat…and of course, her two dogs.
Tanya, Front Desk Admin
Kerry, Certified Dental Assistant & Front Desk Admin
Kerry started in the dental field in 2014 in Powell River, where she lived for 10 years prior to relocating to the island with her two children. She is passionate for all things health related—cooking healthy plant-based meals, spending time outdoors, yoga, and reading.…
What makes Kerry smile?
Exploring all the beautiful trails of Vancouver Island with her family.
Karissa, Front Desk Admin
Emily, Front Desk Admin
Holly, Front Desk Admin
Lorraine, Administrative Assistant
Lorraine is a passionate Human Resources graduate with several years of experience in the dental field, where she discovered her love for building strong teams and fostering a positive workplace culture. …
This role perfectly combines her HR expertise with her love for people-centred environments. Lorraine thrives on helping others grow, succeed, and feel valued in their roles.
What makes Lorraine Smile?
A good book, adventuring to new places and enjoying quality time with family and friends.
Russell, Dental Coordinator
Russell studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Zimbabwe, imagining a future spent building robots. Today, he’s a dental coordinator, helping people feel at ease with something most folks dread: the dentist’s chair. …
Turns out, making people smile (literally), is pretty awesome! His goal is simple: to make every dental visit less “ugh” and more “hey, that wasn’t so bad.” Maybe even… kinda nice.
What makes Russell Smile?
Lifting weights, tinkering with contraptions, diving into philosophy, and DJing (mostly in his own head). He’s also big on music, mindfulness, and life’s big questions. Oh—and snacks. Always snacks.
Natasha, Administrative Assistant
Natasha is a Psychology grad with a passion for people and a knack for making smiles shine! With a Bachelor of Science Honours degree in psychology and over 2 years of dental experience, she’s all about helping patients achieve their dental goals. …
She’s a people person through and through!
What makes Natasha Smile?
A good book, cheering on her favourite football team, belting out her favourite tunes, or sharing laughs with loved ones.
Samantha, Administrative Assistant
Samantha is a finance graduate with a passion for numbers and precision. Her love for numbers and contributing to people’s oral health and well-being have allowed her to experience a whole new fulfilling career path in the dental field. …
What makes Samantha Smile?
Cheering on her favourite teams at live sporting events, enthusiastically supporting basketball, rugby, cricket, and soccer.
Marylyn, Administrative Assistant
Marylyn is a vibrant professional with an Honours Degree in Information Technology. She began her career in IT before transitioning into healthcare—specifically the dental sector—where she has gained experience in both dental coordination and revenue cycle management. …
Marylyn loves connecting with people, exploring new environments, and building strong relationships. Taking on this role felt like a natural fit, allowing her to meet patient needs while ensuring every visit ends up with a “permanent smile.”
What makes Marylyn Smile?
Fitness training, playing hockey, watching basketball, exploring network marketing—and, as a true foodie, enjoying delicious meals.
Panashe, Administrative Assistant
With a degree in Computer Systems Engineering and a Master’s in Software Engineering, Panashe has always loved building cool things. But what he values most in his role is connecting with people, especially patients. …
Panashe believes a friendly smile and a listening ear can make all the difference in someone’s day. He’s excited to be part of the team and to help create a positive experience for everyone who walks through the doors.
What makes Panashe Smile?
Catching the latest movies, streaming shows, and listening to music.
FAQs
Dr. Nadia Stymiest is pleased to welcome new patients to Ladysmith Smiles dental office. To help you get to know us a little better, we’ve put together answers to our most commonly asked questions.
Your Title Goes Here
Your content goes here. Edit or remove this text inline or in the module Content settings. You can also style every aspect of this content in the module Design settings and even apply custom CSS to this text in the module Advanced settings.
Are you still High Street Dental?
In August 2021, High Street Dental officially became Ladysmith Smiles under the new ownership of Dr. Nadia Stymiest. It was important to Dr. Stymiest that the dental clinic’s name represented its mission—to help the community of Ladysmith smile through friendly, accessible, exceptional dental care.
Is Dr. Holly Blaikie still at Ladysmith Smiles?
Dr. Nadia Stymiest is excited to have the mentorship and support of Dr. Holly Blaikie in part-time capacity.
Do you offer competitive pricing?
While Ladysmith Smiles delivers a premium dental experience, we pride ourselves on providing affordable services to ensure amazing dental healthcare is accessible to all of the smiles in our community. Ladysmith Smiles adheres to the provincial dental pricing fee guide.
Your Title Goes Here
Your content goes here. Edit or remove this text inline or in the module Content settings. You can also style every aspect of this content in the module Design settings and even apply custom CSS to this text in the module Advanced settings.
What services do you offer?
Ladysmith Smiles dental clinic offers a comprehensive suite of dental services, including:
- Examinations
- Cleanings
- Invisalign
- Botulinum Toxin
- Whitening
- X-Rays
- Fluoride Treatments
- Sealants
- Fillings, Crowns, Bridges and Implant Restorations
- Root Canals
- Extractions and Dental Surgery
Do you accept walk-ins?
Yes! When we say all smiles are welcome, we truly mean it. If you’d like to drop by and see our beautiful space in person, we will always do our best to accommodate you. However, we do recommend calling ahead to schedule appointments and guarantee availability.
*Please note, due to COVID-19 all walk-in patients are required to call ahead prior to visiting.
What makes Ladysmith Smiles the best dentistry choice in Ladysmith?
At Ladysmith Smiles, we pride ourselves on being a dental practice that cares. We value all of our patients and promise to create an atmosphere that feels warm and welcoming. We strive to create a dental experience that you can love, one which actually leaves you with a smile. Come visit us today and experience the Ladysmith Smiles difference.