Meet Dr. Asef Karim

Asef Karim, DMD, MSc, MPH

Certified Specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics

I love being an orthodontist

Being an orthodontist is rewarding. I get to know people while using my skills to make them smile. I take time to learn about each patient, wanting to understand their needs and desires. The better I understand who they are, the better I can identify the correct treatment approach to answer their needs.

I love being an orthodontist. I work with each patient throughout the treatment planning process, discussing their diagnosis and reviewing treatment options. By giving people options, and ensuring they are fully informed, I partner with them as they make knowledgeable decisions about their oral health and new smile. We then undertake the treatment process together, working toward achieving the patient’s goal of a healthier and more confident smile.

That teamwork approach is embraced by everyone in the practice. Our staff is friendly, highly skilled, and dedicated. We ensure our patients’ visits are pleasant by providing treatment with open communication, honesty, integrity, ethical care, and a family warmth. We strive to make everyone feel like family as we help them develop their best smiles!

Education and Experience

Born in Hong Kong, I moved with my family to Vancouver as a child. I attended the University of British Columbia, where I obtained my Doctorate of Dental Medicine (DMD) in 1999.

After practicing general and multi-disciplinary in the lower mainland for several years, I decided to further my education and pursue an interest in international public health. In 2008 I graduated from Boston University with a Master’s degree in Public Health (MPH).

In my years of practice, as a dentist and an orthodontist, I have dedicated myself to providing personalized, lasting solutions to each person’s needs. I enjoy utilizing the latest techniques and technologies combined with individualized treatment for the best experience and outcome.

Professional Affiliations, Activities, and Continuing Education

As a board-certified orthodontist, I have the rare accomplishment and distinction of having a dual certification as both a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists and a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.

I am also an active member of the:

• American Association of Orthodontists
• Canadian Association of Orthodontists
• British Columbia Society of Orthodontists
• College of Dental Surgeons of BC
• British Columbia Dental Association
• Northwest Component of the Angle Society

I currently serve as a Clinical Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Dentistry Graduate Orthodontics at UBC. Previously, I served as a Representative of the British Columbia Society Orthodontists to the Dental Specialist’s Society of BC from 2013-2017. Additionally, I was President of the Dental Specialist’s Society of BC from 2016-2017.

As a clinician, I make informed decisions for my patients based on sound science. I have had the privilege of doing research and have published peer-reviewed article in a broad range of areas, including: implants and orthodontics, dental public health, dental care in remote areas, and orthodontic treatment needs of indigenous children in Haida Gwaii.

Through continuing education, I stay well-versed and up-to-date in all areas of orthodontics. I have specific interests in interceptive orthodontic treatments for young children, clear aligner therapy, traditional and clear braces, and surgical orthodontics for young and adult patients.

Beyond the Office

In my personal time, I relish being with my wife, three children, and parents. You can find us biking around the beautiful trails of the lower mainland or, when we’ve the opportunity, enjoying a sunny beach somewhere in the world. While I also enjoy biking and rowing, it’s being with my family that means the most to me.