Dr. Yena Kim

My journey into dentistry began thanks to my cousin, a dental student who sparked my curiosity when I was in high school. As I played with his dental models and notes, I realized that dentistry offered the perfect blend of science and healthcare—fields that have always resonated with me. Dentistry became a career where I could make a real difference in people’s lives by addressing both functional and aesthetic concerns. 

What I love most about being a dentist is helping people feel confident in their smiles. A smile can transform how a person feels, and I strive to provide treatments that restore both function and beauty. I follow a guiding principle I learned in dental school: “Treat each and every patient as if they were your grandmother.” This philosophy helps me ensure that every patient receives the same level of care, attention, and respect that I would provide for my own family. 

With millions of people worldwide facing dental issues, especially related to aesthetics and function, my goal is to deliver care that not only addresses immediate concerns but also promotes long-term oral health. Through patient education, I empower my patients to adopt healthy habits and make informed decisions about their care. 

How I stay healthy and happy 
I stay active through regular exercise and enjoy nature walks to clear my mind. Balancing my professional life with time for family, friends, and personal interests is important to me, as it helps me recharge and stay focused on delivering the best care to my patients.

How I maintain healthy teeth and gums 
I brush my teeth twice a day—first thing in the morning and before bed—and make sure to floss after lunch and before bed. Although I have a sweet tooth, I limit my sugar intake and make regular 6-month check-ups and cleanings a priority.

Essential tip to keep your teeth healthy 
Floss daily! It’s one of the most important habits to develop for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Regular flossing helps prevent plaque buildup and keeps your smile in top shape.

Education 
University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand

Board Certification 
• Registered with the Australian Dental Board
• Registered through the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Act

Area(s) of Expertise 
• Aesthetic Dentistry
• Oral Surgery
• Restorative Dentistry