Family Dentistry
in Nanaimo, BC
Nanaimo Smiles family dentistry is committed to delivering the community of Nanaimo, BC with reliable, affordable dental care that is unmatched. We promise to care for smiles of all ages with a warm, welcoming and respectful experience each visit. Find your smile.
Dr. Nadia Stymiest
Dr. Nadia Stymiest has been practicing as a general dentist and serving the Nanaimo area since 2013. The Nanaimo Smiles practice features all aspects of dental care, with a particular passion for oral surgery, pediatrics and restorative dentistry. Since graduating from Boston University, Nadia has continued to invest in furthering her education with courses such as Invisalign, Nitrous Oxide Sedation and botox.
As a proud mom of two, Nadia is extremely passionate about constructing a safe, friendly environment for families of all ages. Above all else, Nadia is on a mission to make excellent dental care accessible to every smile in our community. Nanaimo Smiles aims to feel like your dental home, a place where you’ll always be treated like family.
What makes Dr. Nadia smile? Any corny jokes or puns—the cheesier, the better! Especially when they are told by her patients or two wonderful kiddos.
Meet Our Team
The growing Nanaimo Smiles team takes pride in providing exceptional and friendly care for patients in the Nanaimo community and the surrounding area.
Dr. Holly Blaikie, DMD
Dr. Holly Blaikie is thrilled to be rejoining the dynamic Smiles team. 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.
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!
Esme, Clinical Operations 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.
Trina, Dental Billing 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.
Florentin, Chief Operating Officer
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, Executive Assistant & Acting Office Manager
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.
Meghan, Registered Dental Hygienist
Bryan, Registered Dental Hygienist
What makes Bryan smile?
Lyndi, Registered Dental Hygienist
Charlene, Registered Dental Hygienist
Charlene studied at the College of New Caledonia in Prince George and has been a Vancouver Island resident for 20 years–she loves the ocean best of all. Charlene knew she wanted to pursue a career in dentistry since she was 14 years old! Outside of work, she enjoys boating, spending time with friends, and watching reality TV.
What makes Charlene smile? Working with a fantastic team and going on vacation!
Lindsay, Certified Dental Assistant
Lindsay, a VIU graduate, was born and raised in Nanaimo and has cherished living there her entire life. She loves the local forests, lakes, mountains, and ocean, which she finds truly special. Lindsay chose a career in dentistry because she’s always wanted to help people. Outside of work, in the summer, she enjoys camping or visiting the lake, while in the winter, she loves cozying up with her cat Milo and a good book.
What makes Lindsay smile? Being part of an amazing team and making a difference in people’s lives every day.
Emma, Certified Dental Assistant
Tara, Certified Dental Assistant
After being scared of the dentist as a child, Tara has mastered the key to making dentist visits fun for kiddos.
What makes Tara Smile? When Tara isn’t helping our youngest patients smile, you can find her hiking and hanging out with her family or sailing the coast.
Leah, Certified Dental Assistant
Taylor, Certified Dental Assistant
Maddie, Certified Dental Assistant
Katelyn, Certified Dental Assistant
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.
Ella, Front Desk Admin
Ella, a 2023 graduate of Nanaimo District Secondary School, has called Vancouver Island home since she was five. She loves the island’s proximity to the ocean and its stunning natural beauty. With a long-standing interest in dentistry, Ella eagerly embraced the chance to learn about the field and office operations. Outside of work, she enjoys swimming during warm weather and having fun with friends.
What makes Ella smile? Seeing animals—especially cats—and spending quality time with friends and family!
Tricia, Front Desk Admin
Tricia, a Camosun College School of Business graduate from 2007, has lived her entire life on Vancouver Island, cherishing its stunning natural beauty. With ten years of experience as a Resident Care Attendant, she transitioned to dental administration, combining her love for client interaction and organizational work. Outside of work, Tricia enjoys family time, camping, hiking with her dog Daisy, and relaxing by the water.
What makes Tricia smile? The fun and laughter at the clinic are what truly make her smile.
Mariam, Front Desk Admin
Jenah, New Patient Coordinator
Jenah’s journey into dentistry began after her studies at CDI College, where she trained as a Health Care Aide. Originally from the picturesque island of Guernsey in the Channel Islands, Jenah moved to Vancouver Island in 2002. Though she initially didn’t foresee a career in dentistry, Jenah’s path led her to a pediatric office where she spent six fulfilling years. There, she discovered a deep love for the field and its impact on overall health. Jenah cherishes time spent with her partner and children, enjoying adventures like camping, swimming, and hiking.
What makes Jenah smile? Her days are brightened by her favorite person, Front Desk Administrator Tricia, who never fails to make her smile!
Teghan, Hygiene Coordinator
Erin, Treatment Coordinator
Erin is a Certified Dental Assistant who has been serving her community since graduating from CDI College in Victoria, BC, in 2006. Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Erin has spent her entire life surrounded by the island’s stunning oceans, rivers, and lakes. Inspired by the joy she experienced during her own dental visits as a child, she finds great satisfaction in helping others achieve bright, healthy smiles.
What makes Erin smile? Listening to the Handsome Podcast!
Snehal, Treatment Coordinator
Snehal, a 2015 dental assisting graduate from London, Ontario, has been living on Vancouver Island for four years. She’s drawn to the island’s beauty and activities, calling it her closest alternative to Hawaii! Snehal loves the chance to make a difference in people’s lives through dentistry, believing that a smile is your best accessory. Outside of work, she enjoys hanging out with loved ones, exploring, Netflix, and cooking.
What makes Snehal smile? A kind gesture, compliments, sunny day and long walks, conversation with friends, dad jokes and vacations!
FAQs
Emergency On-Call Number
If you are experiencing an emergency while the practice is closed, there is a dentist on call 24/7 through the Nanaimo and District Dental Society at (250) 816-1029.
Are you connected to Ladysmith Smiles?
Yes! Dr. Nadia Stymiest and her team also help the community of Ladysmith smile at her first practice Ladysmith Smiles, which opened in August 2021.
If you are a patient of Ladysmith Smiles and Nanaimo is a more convenient location for you, speak to our team about transferring to Nanaimo Smiles. You can expect the same exceptional experience at both our locations
What services do you offer?
Nanaimo 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