Dr. Dorothy Sonya has more than 35 years of experience in dental medicine, orthodontics, and radiology. She currently practices orthodontics at White Rock Orthodontic Center, and maxillofacial radiology at West Coast Radiographics.
In addition, Dr. Sonya is a member of the Cleft Lip / Palate and Craniofacial team at Children’s Hospital in Vancouver, and a member of the faculty at the University of British Columbia’s School of Dentistry.
Dr. Sonya is passionate about continuing her education, networking with experts in various fields, and bringing her knowledge back to her community.
When she’s not seeing patients, Dr. Sonya enjoys time with her daughters, family, and friends, and many community activities. A native of Steinbach, MB, a town 40 miles south of Winnipeg, she has resided in South Surrey since 1992.
Education and Clinical Experience
- Masters in dental and maxillofacial radiology – King’s College, London, England, 2012
- Master of Science – University of Manitoba, 1988
- Diploma in orthodontics – University of Manitoba, 1988
- Internship, faculty of medicine, postgraduate medical education – University of Manitoba, 1982
- Doctorate of Dental Medicine – University of Manitoba, 1981
Prior to practicing orthodontics, Dr. Sonya was a general dentist. This experience enabled her to gain essential insight into the long-term oral health needs of the community, and that insight informs her orthodontic treatment planning. She crafts each patient’s treatment approach to address their aesthetic goals, as well as lasting function and stability.
- 1993 to present: orthodontist, White Rock, BC
- 1988 to 1993: orthodontist, Winnipeg, MB
- 1982 to 1985: dentist, Winnipeg, MB
- 1982 to 1984: general dentist, Steinbach, MB
- 1981 to 1982: general dental internship, postgraduate medical education, University of Manitoba
Professional Memberships
Since completing her dental degree in 1981, Dr. Sonya has been an active member of many professional oral healthcare organizations. These organisations and study clubs provide access to the latest research in orthodontic methodologies and technologies and offer a range of continuing education opportunities.
By staying current with technological innovations and techniques, Dr. Sonya ensures she is providing each patient with the best orthodontic experience and outcome.
- 2008 to present: active member of Angle Society
- 2003 to 2008: affiliate of the Angle Society
- 2001 to present: fellow of the College of Dental Surgeons of British Columbia (F.C.D.S.(B.C.))
- 2001 to present: founding board member of Pacific Academy of Dental Specialties (PADS)
- 2000: Invisalign® system training
- 2000 to present: orthodontic team member of Cleft & Craniofacial Team at BC Children’s Hospital
- 1994 to present: member of The Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists
- 1992 to present: fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada in Orthodontics (F.R.C.D.C)
- 1992 to present: Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics (Dip. A.B.O.)
- 1992 to present: member of British Columbia Society of Orthodontists
- 1992 to present: member of Ortho Pac Study Club
- 1988 to 1994: member, Midwestern Society of Orthodontists
- 1988 to present: member, Canadian Association of Orthodontists
- 1988 to present: member, American Association of Orthodontists
- 1981 to 1988: member, Canadian Association of Dentists
- 1981 to 1988: member, American Association of Dentists
- 1981 to present: member, Manitoba Dental Association
- 1981 to present: member, Xi Psi Phi Fraternity
Professional Activities and Faculty Appointments
In addition to constantly furthering her own knowledge of orthodontics and oral health, Dr. Sonya is a well-respected lecturer and clinical instructor, as well as an examiner for the Royal College of Dentists of Canada (Orthodontics).
- 2009 to present: appointed to faculty of dentistry, University of British Columbia
- 2008 to present: active member of Angle Society
- 2002 to 2008: affiliate of Angle Society
- 2001 to present: active board member and presenter for PADS
- 1999 to present: examiner for the Royal College of Dentists of Canada (Orthodontics)
- 1993 to 1994: lecturer and clinical instructor for Orthodontic Assistants Module, University of British Columbia
- 1990 to 1991: president of Manitoba Dental Specialists Society, Winnipeg, MB
- 1988 to 1992: lecturer and course coordinator for undergraduate orthodontics, Year 1, University of Manitoba
- 1989 to 1992: lecturer and clinical instructor for Orthodontic Assistant’s Module, University of Manitoba
- 1982 to 1984: clinical instructor, pedodontics, University of Manitoba
- 1981 to 1982: clinical instructor, oral surgery, University of Manitoba
- 1980, summer: research assistant, biochemistry
Select Lectures Presented
- 2008, November: PADS: Current Advances in Orthodontic Treatment Modalities
- 2008, February: Case Presentation to Angle Society – Twin Block
- 2007, October: PADS: The Art of the Smile
- 2005, October: PADS: Orthodontics and Facial Esthetics
- 2004, November: PADS: Diagnostic Dilemmas in Orthodontic Treatment Planning: Retention and Relapse in Orthodontic Treatment
- 2004, September: Canadian Association of Orthodontists (CAO) Convention: The Paperless Office
- 2004, May: Guest Clinician for Faculty of Medicine, UBC, Embryology
- 2003, November: Pacific Academy of Dental Specialties: Facial Proportion in Facial Esthetics
- 2003, October: Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists (PCSO): Digital Orthodontics – New Diagnostic Tools
- 2002, March: Pacific Academy of Dental Specialties: Osseo integrated Implants: Orthodontic & Prosthetic Considerations
- 2002, Winter: Women’s and Children’s Health Centre of BC - Cleft Lip/Palate & Craniofacial Symposium
- 2001, Fall: Pacific Academy of Dental Specialties – Straight Teeth Talk
- 2000, May: Continuing education seminar for assistants: Considerations in Retention & New Technological Advancements
- 1999 to present: Examiner for RCDC in Orthodontics
- 1998: Continuing education seminar for hygienists – Considerations in Retention
- 1998: Continuing education seminar for White Rock Dental Association – Considerations in Orthodontic Appliance Therapy
- 1997, May: Clinical Instructor for BC Dental Assistant’s Orthodontic Module
- 1995: Peace River Valley Dental Association: Straight Teeth Talk
- 1987: Canadian Association of Orthodontists (CAO): Molar Uprighting Poster Presentation
Select Publications
- 1980: Effect of light on prolactin levels in sheep
- 1988: Thesis: Biomechanics of Molar Uprighting
- 2012: Thesis: Radiation Levels in Cone-beam Machines
