Volunteer Spotlight: Dr Sophia Kim and the power of giving back through dentistry.
For volunteer dentist Dr Kim, giving back was always part of the plan. Together, with partner Ian, a Dental Prosthetist, they are helping vulnerable Victorians regain their confidence, health and hope through the ADA Dental Health Foundation.
About Dr Sophia Kim
Role – Volunteer Dentist
Volunteering Since – April 2024
Favourite Part – Seeing patients regain confidence through their new smile
Fun Fact – Absolute Foodie. Dr Kim loves trying new cuisines and recipes.
Dr Kim never expected a university placement to shape the future of her professional life.
While studying at the University of Adelaide, a visit to an outreach clinic providing care for people experiencing homelessness left a lasting impression.
“Meeting those dedicated dentists really planted a seed,” Dr Kim says.
“I knew that once I graduated, I wanted to get involved in work like that, giving back to the community and helping those in need.”
“The most dramatic and moving transformations are seen with patients who leave with a full set of teeth. They start smiling instantly and gain the confidence to get their lives back on track.”
Today, Dr Kim and partner Ian run a joint dental and denture clinic with an on-site laboratory, providing personalised care for patients.
The pair joined the ADA Dental Health Foundation in April 2024 and have already seen firsthand the life-changing impact that access to dental care can have.
More than dental care
For Dr Kim, volunteering complements private practices beautifully.
“While treating patients in a private clinic is already highly rewarding, I often feel a void thinking about others who simply can’t access care,” she says.
“Volunteering is a great way to fill that gap. It genuinely enriches and invigorates my life.”
Through programs such as Rebuilding Smiles, Dr Kim has worked closely with patients whose experiences extend far beyond oral health challenges.
The role has provided valuable insights into wider community issues, including the long-term effects of family violence and trauma.
“Volunteering has allowed me to be deeply involved in the community, significantly broadening my perspective,” Dr Kim explains.
“The contribution you make doesn’t have to be something big. Focusing on one patient at a time is enough to help turn a life around.”
Real Impact
According to Dr Kim, the greatest contribution made by the ADA Dental Health Foundation programs is simple but profound.
“The biggest impact is undeniably increased access to essential dental care for vulnerable populations. It improves health outcomes, reduces chronic pain and enhanced quality of life. Most importantly, it gives people their smile back.”
Did you know?
The Rebuilding Smiles program helps people impacted by family violence regain their oral health and confidence. It’s more than a new smile – it’s a step towards a better future.
A message to colleagues
Running a busy private practice can make volunteering feel out of reach — but every contribution matters.
Whether it’s helping a patient smile confidently for the first time in years, supporting someone returning to work, or restoring dignity through care, small acts create lasting change.
For dental professionals considering volunteering, the message is clear: one patient can make all the difference.
