Dr. Kathryn Bibby was born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand, and graduated from Dental School at the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand. She then worked for two years in hospital dentistry, treating patients with complex medical or dental problems or facial injuries. Dr. Bibby experienced braces first hand as a teenager, but there were no training programs available in New Zealand at that time. After applying to several schools in North America, she was thrilled to be accepted at her first choice, the University of Toronto. This program was unique in that it offered training in a wide range of orthodontic techniques including functional (orthopedic) as well as fixed appliance (braces) therapy. She enjoyed both the clinical component and the research aspect, winning an Award of Special Merit from the American Association of Orthodontists for her Masters thesis.
After graduating with a Master of Science and orthodontic diploma in 1993, Dr. Bibby moved to Yellowknife where she also had the opportunity to provide orthodontic services in Inuvik & Baffin Island. It was extremely rewarding to transform these patients' smiles and lives through improved access to orthodontic care. Dr. Bibby established her practice in Nelson in 1996, becoming the only resident orthodontic specialist in the West Kootenay region. She continues to keep abreast of the latest research and techniques through online learning, attending several orthodontic continuing education courses per year, and through being an active member of the Canadian and American Associations of Orthodontists, as well as the BC Society of Orthodontists.
Dr. Bibby and her husband Garry love the West Kootenay region and the people and enjoy many of its recreational offerings (including downhill and cross-country skiing, running and bike riding) with their young sons. She is a strong supporter of the Kootenay Lake Hospital foundation, Nelson Nordic Ski Club, & Salvation Army, along with many other community organizations, and she sponsors a child in Bolivia.