Stefanie Nio, MSc Dip Endodontics 2017, moved to Vancouver after completing her DMD in the Netherlands. We connected with Dr. Nio to learn about her time at UBC Dentistry and her passion for endodontics.
What inspired you to go into dentistry?
When I was around 10, a dentist came to our classroom. We brushed our teeth and then chewed these little tablets that stained the plaque pink so we could see the spots we missed. It was the first time I thought, “Wow, teeth are important, we need to take care of them!” After that, I kept gravitating to dentistry. I love the precision it requires and the way it allows for creativity through problem-solving and detail-oriented work.
How did you end up at UBC?
I was born and raised in the Netherlands, where I completed my DMD at the University of Amsterdam. During the program’s final year, we had the opportunity to do an exchange abroad, and I chose to spend that time at UBC Dentistry. That experience had a lasting impact on me. I left feeling incredibly inspired by the Faculty, the environment and the collaborative spirit of the school. Over time, I found myself becoming increasingly drawn to endodontics. That growing interest, combined with my previous experience at UBC Dentistry, made applying to the program feel like the natural next step.
Do you have a favourite memory of your time spent at UBC Dentistry?
Friday afternoons quickly became something I looked forward to. After spending the morning treating patients, the residents would gather in the afternoon to present and discuss cases as a group. It was a great chance to learn from each other and hear different perspectives. What made it even more valuable was when instructors shared cases from their private practices. Seeing the kinds of complex cases they handled—and how they approached them—gave us a real window into what day-to-day life is like as an endodontist.
What do you love about being an endodontist?
The combination of precision, problem-solving and partnering with referring dentists to make a meaningful difference in patients’ quality of life is very rewarding. I also find it fulfilling to support a patient who arrives feeling anxious and distressed, and easing their discomfort while also preserving their natural tooth.
Where did your career take you?
After graduating from UBC, I moved to Kelowna—and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made. In 2019, I took the exciting leap into ownership of my office, Okanagan Endodontic Specialists and since then, I’ve fully embraced both the practice and the Okanagan lifestyle. It’s a beautiful place to live and work, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of this community.
Do you have any advice for current students?
Stay curious and open-minded—you never know which area of dentistry you might end up falling in love with. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, even if they seem small, and take advantage of every opportunity to observe and learn, especially from those with more experience. Also, take care of yourself. Dental school is demanding, and so is the profession. Finding balance early on will help you enjoy the journey and build a sustainable, fulfilling career.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love Pilates, yoga and hiking with my dog, Kobe!