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. Aida Mendoza, DMD
Dr. Mendoza attended the University of Western Ontario, where she completed an Honors Bachelor of Medical Sciences (B.M.Sc.) Degree, with a double major in Physiology and
Medical Sciences. She then attended University of British Columbia in Vancouver to obtain her Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D) Degree. Dr. Mendoza is passionate about providing personalized and compassionate dental care to all her patients.
What makes Dr. Mendoza smile? Taking photos featuring her family’s adorable kitties, Netflixing, exploring Vancouver Island and playing both the piano and cello.
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. 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. 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.
Brianna, Certified Dental Assistant
Born and raised in the Ladysmith area, Brianna moved to Prince George and graduated from 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.
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.
Trina, Accounts Clerk
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.
Esme, Office Manager
Having worked in the dental field for the past several years, Esme is always happy to answer your questions. Graduating from Okanagan College in 2016, Esme began her journey as an assistant, and quickly found that her love for computers and patient-care blended together perfectly into administration. She moved from Kelowna to the island in 2018, and worked
for a few years in the field of oral surgery. Now she is so happy to have moved to Ladysmith, where she can do the things that she loves:
Paint, thrift shop and play video games!
What makes Esme smile? Watching her favourite movie series, Twilight, and spending time exploring the island and laughing with her loved ones.
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.
Zoe, Registered Dental Hygienist
Zoe may be a familiar face in the office as she worked with the practice for many years. She has been a dental hygienist for over 20 years working in both Vancouver and on the island. She is known for her gentle touch and the time she takes to make sure each patient feels involved in their care. In 2018, Zoe received her 800 hour International Yoga Teacher Training certification and now teaches at the Vijnana Yoga Center. Zoe’s passions also include interior design, gardening and cooking.
What makes Zoe smile? Spending time with her friends and walking in nature with her son.
Shannon, Treatment Coordinator
Shannon’s friendly smile may be familiar to the Ladysmith locals as they enter into our office. Having lived in Ladysmith for the past sixteen years, Shannon enjoys connecting with her community. She graduated in 1999 from the certified dental assisting program at the University of Fraser Valley, and has since spent her time learning both administration and assisting. Her hobbies include cooking, walking and watching sports.
What makes Shannon Smile? Knowing that at the end of each day she has had the chance to aid in someone’s care and has brought a smile to someone’s face.
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 smiles? Spending time with her family in nature hiking, camping or boating.
Ali, Registered Dental Hygienist
After graduating from dental hygiene from Vancouver Island University (VIU) in 2022, Ali joined the Ladysmith Smiles team and has been making her patients and co-workers smile ever since. Having been born in Banff, Ali now calls Nanaimo home and enjoys exploring all that Vancouver Island has to offer.
What makes Ali smiles? Setting up her hammock by the lake for an afternoon of relaxation.
Alexis, Front Desk Admin
When you visit Ladysmith Smiles, it’s likely you’ll be greeted with Alexis’ smiley hello. Along with a friendly demeanour, Alexis brings with her to this position experience as a Certified Dental Assistant. Originally from Newfoundland, Alexis has found home in our community with her husband and two sports-loving kids. When she’s not at work, you can often find her travelling for her daughter and son’s football and hockey tournaments.
What makes Alexis smile? On her days off, Alexis loves to hike with her dogs or dirt bike before enjoying a glass of wine with her husband.
Bryan, Registered Dental Hygienist
What makes Bryan smile?
Tayler, Registered Dental Hygienist
Emma, Certified Dental Assistant
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.
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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.
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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.