Our Wonderful Team

Dr Dinesh Singham

BDS (Hons) (USyd 2001)

I grew up in the suburbs of Sydney where I underwent all of my schooling and professional training. In 2001, after graduating from Sydney University with Honours, I made the move to Townsville where I worked as a family dentist for ten years. Like most North Queenslanders, I took an instant liking to Townsville and made the permanent decision to call Townsville home. After meeting my lovely wife, Dr Lindsay Smith, and marrying in 2007 – I couldn’t think of a better place to live and raise a family. In 2009, we celebrated the birth of our son Ruben, with another expected later that year. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family, indulging in some fine food and wine and flexing my competitive spirit with a spot of tenpin bowling (I represented Queensland in my earlier years).

My commitment at Absolutely Dental is to complete dental excellence. I frequently attend Continuing Education Conferences throughout Australia to stay as up-to-date as possible with the changing techniques and technologies associated with dentistry. Most of the time, I work through a Dental Operating Microscope to increase the precision of my work.

In 2010, I travelled to the USA to further my education in Cosmetic and Comprehensive Dentistry. I further attended the Scotsdale Centre for Dentistry and a conference in Florida to learn from some of the world leaders in Cosmetic and Comprehensive Dentistry.

What I want patients to know is when they come into Absolutely Dental, they will be looked after. I like to make patients feel comfortable, relaxed and maybe even enjoy their dental visit!

Dr Ruth Smith

BDS (Birmingham UK 1999)

As a naturally artistic person I wanted a career in which I could be an artist, show off my creative nature and undertake detailed and precise work. For me, dentistry was the obvious choice. I found I could carve, sculpt and create everyday allowing me to work with my hands and get great satisfaction not only from fixing something that’s broken but also by creating beautiful smiles. The first time I helped change someone's life by helping them achieve a confident and healthy smile, I knew I would always be happy in my chosen career.  I am a social person, love meeting new people and being part of a fun team. Since graduating in the late 1990’s I have also gained pleasure in developing life-long relationships with my patients. I am a good listener, will answer all your questions and enjoy giving confidence back to any anxious patients I meet. I pride myself on being as gentle as possible with my hands and with my manner. I understand that sometimes life gets in the way but I’m here to help you get back on track.  I enjoy preventative, restorative and general dentistry and making people smile again.

Dr Geoffrey Compton

BDS (JCU 2015)

I grew up in the small town of Malanda on the Atherton Tablelands. In my final years of schooling I was privileged enough to carry out work experience with our local dentist. I saw him interact with his patients and community in both a personal and professional capacity and found that creating long-lasting relationships with patients could be incredibly rewarding – not only for the patient but for the dentist as well. After observing the impact that a new smile could make to a person’s life, I knew that I would like to one day do this for someone myself.

I have always loved North Queensland and after completing a Bachelor of Dental Surgery, I made the move to Townsville with my wife Ingrid and pet dog Chief. Outside of work I enjoy getting outdoors and playing in my local touch football competition.

Whether it is helping you achieve the perfect smile, relieving you from pain, or simply keeping your oral hygiene on track, I enjoy all aspects of general dentistry and have a special interest in cosmetic dentistry and creating positive dental experiences for my patients.

Dr Yen Tran

B.OH in Dental Science, Graduate Diploma of Dentistry (Griffith Uni 2018)

Born and bred in Brisbane, I grew up loving the sunshine state - the beautiful year round sunshine with a mild winter! Throughout my childhood, I always knew I wanted a career in the health department but it wasn’t until I met my dentist doing my orthodontic work, that I was allured to the field of dentistry. With further studies, I graduated from Griffith University with a Bachelor of Oral Health in Dental Science, and a Graduate Diploma of Dentistry. With experience in both the private and public setting in Queensland and Canberra, I have gained a deeper insight and experience treating patients with all kinds of dental needs.

Understanding that a trip to the dentist may seem daunting for people, my goal is to make my patients feel relaxed and restore confidence in their smile. I am down to earth and love meeting new people. My passion is to create long term relationships with patients who trust me to deliver and maintain exceptional oral health! I am committed to delivering the best care to my patients by keeping up to date with the latest technology and research.

Appreciating that dentistry can be difficult to access, I strive to give back to the community by participating in volunteering projects. I have participated in a volunteering program in Dandenong providing emergency dental care to patients. Working with Absolutely Dental, I hope to be able to contribute more to the community.

Outside of dentistry, you can find me in the great outdoors camping, boating and hiking! Being surrounded by so many towns, national parks and islands, I am excited with the opportunities I will get to embark on new adventures.

Dr Ali Mohammadi

Doctorate Diploma of Dentistry (DDS) 2010

I grew up and completed my studies in Tehran, Iran and moved to Townsville in 2016. Luckily I moved here, as this is where I met my partner, and we have a daughter, Mia. On weekends I enjoy riding my motorbike, and getting out and about in beautiful North Queensland. Cape York is on our bucket list, but we'll wait until Mia is a bit older. My favourite football team is Chelsea and I also follow the Cowboys. I love the laid back lifestyle here in Townsville, and working with the great team at Absolutely Dental.

Dr Miles Devlin

BDS, MRACDS (PDS), GDipSurgAnat

Though born in Australia, I grew up overseas in Southeast Asia (Brunei) until age of 12, when my family move to Cairns. Here I finished the remainder of my schooling, where I then went on to study dentistry at JCU (Cairns).

While working in the Mackay base hospital as a junior public dentist, I developed a keen interest in anatomy and surgery. It was while working with several surgeons, that I realised I wanted to continue my studies to specialise and pursue Oral and Maxillofacial surgery. Embarking upon this journey, I completed the Primary Exams through the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons in 2020, where I achieved the highest mark in Anatomy, any commendations in histology, pathology, microbiology, cell biology and biochemistry. 

Next, I completed a graduate diploma in surgical anatomy (JCU) to further supplement my knowledge on anatomy, and its application to surgery. After being accepted into JCU's Medical program, I moved to Townsville last year, where I started working at Absolutely Dental. At this stage I began studying a Master in Surgery, through the UNiversity of Sydney - in order to further supplement my surgical knowledge. Currently, I am a thrid year Medical student at JCU, where I am very much enjoying all that Medicine has to offer. 

While not studying or at work, I enjoy exercising - either at the gym or walking the dog. Otherwise, being a musician, there are always opportunities to perform at concerts around Townsville on a semi-regular basis. I am also a Dad to four kids under the age of 10, so things can get a little busy at times! 

Dr Deepika Katragadda

BDS, PG Dipclinical (Orthodontics), FICDDE, Grad DipClinDent (Clear Aligners)

Dr Deepika moved to Australia with her family and once she passed the Australian Dental Council exams in 2011, she started working as a General Dentist in Townsville. She has an interest in Children's early Orthodontic intervention, with a focus on improving airway and facial profile, and Adult Fixed orthodontics and Clear Aligner Therapy.

Dr Deepika continues to strive in her field of practice by attending educational seminars to provide our team and patients with the highest quality treatments and build long-term relationships with our patients, families, and children.

In 2020 Dr Deepika completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Orthodontic and Dentofacial Orthopedics at the City of London Dental School, a three year program under the guidance of Dr Derek Mahony, and was awarded the Fellowship of International College of Continuing Dental Education (FICCDE) (Singapore).

In 2023 Dr Deepika finished a Clear Aligner Therapy Graduate Diploma course from the City of London Dental School and is a Certified SPARK Clear Aligner system provider.

Dr Uday Sen

BDS (Hons) (AU 2023)

Passionate about dentistry and dedicated to providing compassionate care, my journey brought me to QLD after dental school. Ever since I was a kid, I've dreamed of a career in dentistry - a field where I can blend patient care, surgery, and facial aesthetics seamlessly.

As a devoted dentist, my goal is simple: to make a positive impact on dentistry and beyond, one patient at a time. I love creating a relaxed and comforting atmosphere for all dental procedures, from routine check-ups to more complex treatments like crowns, bridges, root canals, and extractions.

Being named the Australian Dental Graduate of the Year 2023 was a huge honour, recognising my dedication to academics, hands-on skills, and community involvement. I've had the opportunity to work in both public and private dental settings and even volunteered in Phnom Penh, providing dental care to kids through the Cambodia World Family Foundation.

Outside of the dental world, I'm all about staying healthy and spending quality time with family. Balancing work with my interests in fitness, travel, and trying out new foods keeps life exciting. I look forward to making your experience at Absolutely Dental a blast.

Dr Fiona Guo

BDS (Hons) (AU 2023)

Having spent years shivering through winters in Sydney and Adelaide, I loved embracing the warm, sunny climate of Townsville as my third home.

I prioritise creating positive dental experiences for all my patients and feel privileged to support you throughout your dental journey. I’m grateful that through ongoing care, we can build long-term, meaningful relationships and get to know you beyond just your teeth! I’m committed to providing the best care possible and upon graduation I was awarded the Dental Board of SA Medal, ANZ Society of Paediatrics Prize, Moore Medallion and Austin Bazeley Prize for Oral Medicine and Pathology.

Community is important to me and I've enjoyed dental volunteering in regional Australia and overseas as well as serving in various leadership positions on the Australian Dental Association and President of the Adelaide dental school.

Outside of dentistry, my ideal Sunday involves a walk by the beach, enjoying a sunny day with a delectable pastry and an iced matcha in hand!

Jason Petley

Dental Prosthetist

I moved to Townsville at the beginning of 2020 from the Gold Coast with my partner, and quickly fell in love with the area - both of us being avid nature enthusiasts and SCUBA divers. We both hope one day to see a crocodile swim down the Strand, something that many locals promised us was a regular occurrence when we first got here.

 Shortly after arriving, I joined Absolutely Dental as their in-house Dental Prosthetist and have since enjoyed being a part of a multidisciplinary holistic healthcare team.

 I am passionate about providing the very best care possible, with my particular interests in dental prosthetics being:

• Maximum comfort
• Functional efficiency
• Aesthetics
• Restoration of vertical dimension
• Balanced occlusion

 I am one of the few Dental Prosthetists in Australia to have graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Prosthetics.

 A Dental Prosthetist works as an independent practitioner in the assessment, treatment, management and provision of patient removable prostheses. Dental prosthetists are registered nationally with the Dental Board of Australia, the same board that registers dentists, dental hygienists, dental and oral health therapists and dental specialists. They are subject to the same registration requirements, guidelines and codes of practice as other members of the dental team.

 Dentures are required to restore lost function - even if you're missing just one tooth, your chewing ability can become compromised, making it difficult to eat all of the nutrient-rich foods necessary for good health. Having one or more missing teeth can also put you at a higher risk for oral infections, including gum disease.

 Natural teeth provide a "freeway space" of roughly 2–3 mm which  is partially maintained as a result of the teeth limiting any further closure past the point of maximum intercuspidation. 

 When there are no teeth present in the mouth, the natural vertical dimension of occlusion is lost and the mouth has a tendency to overclose. This causes the cheeks to exhibit a "sunken-in" appearance and wrinkle lines to form at the commissures. 

Lauren Stanta

Oral Health Therapist (CSU 2018)

I come from the small country town Ingham, which is rich in Italian heritage. I was blessed to grow up surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef, waterfalls, and eating amazing Italian food with my family and friends. At the age of 10, I was really unhappy with my smile so I travelled to Townsville to see an orthodontist. Ever since I had braces, I was completely fascinated about what was happening in my mouth: how my teeth moved and were gradually straightening.

In high school, I was placed in a local dental clinic for work experience and I grew to love helping others smile. After graduating Year 12, I worked as a dental assistant for three years, during which I was fortunate to have the opportunity to travel to Papua New Guinea as part of my work. A dentist had donated toothbrushes and toothpaste for a youth camp there and I was lucky enough to get to teach these young people how to brush their teeth. This inspired me to further my studies and become an oral health therapist. As an oral health therapist, I am passionate about child dentistry from a holistic viewpoint. I love helping nervous or anxious patients feel relaxed and confident, and educating families on good oral hygiene habits.

Victoria Jada

Oral Health Therapist (CSU 2022)

Relocating from Sydney to Townsville in late October 2023, I thought I had made a horrible decision after experiencing a heat wave that almost took me out. However, within a couple of weeks I was delighted to learn that work is only a 15-minute drive, and on my evening walks people would smile and take their time to greet me. Which is a luxury considering what I was accustomed to. Envisioning Townsville as where I would settle has been easy!   

A short while after high school, I obtained a job as a dental assistant in an orthodontic clinic that would change the trajectory of my life. I encountered a 5-year-old child who refused to smile due to the appearance of their teeth. I was perplexed at how a child so young could be so self-conscious, and how teeth can affect the quality of one’s life, that’s how my interest in dentistry sparked leading me to further my education and become an oral health therapist.  

It has been a joy to practice paediatric dentistry, building your child’s confidence and teaching them to develop good oral hygiene habits. I also look forward to giving you a positive dental experience and inspiring you to share a smile by playing my part in creating that smile. 

Erin Page

Oral Health Therapist (CQU 2015)

Originating from a long line of Townsville locals, it must be in my blood to enjoy the beautiful tropics and the heat because I couldn’t live anywhere else! After starting my career in the dental industry when I was 17 as a trainee Dental Assistant, I always enjoyed the thrill of transforming peoples smiles. After a few years working alongside a plethora of differing dental practitioners gaining experience, I went on to further my knowledge studying a Bachelor of Oral Health through Central Queensland University.  

As an Oral Health Therapist, I’m the starting point for a lot of patients, especially children’s, dental experiences within our practice. I enjoy introducing patients to the dental world and building (or in some cases, rebuilding) positive dental relationships, educating them on their oral health or just having a chat and making them feel relaxed in our environment. I love working with our patients to transform their smiles and making their teeth shine!

Marissa

Practice Manager

GradCert Business

I joined the Absolutely Dental family in April 2016. As the Practice Manager, I lead a wonderful team of dedicated and reliable staff who each have their own special importance within the company. Watching the team grow and develop their skills and confidence is extremely gratifying, as too is seeing patients smile after receiving dental treatment; especially those who would hide their smile. Also seeing patients who were once anxious, become more comfortable and relaxed within the environment, and really enjoying their dental visits.

Born and raised in Townsville, I have 2 teenagers who help keep me busy. In my spare time I enjoy catching up with friends and family, travelling, watersports, snorkelling and anything else to do with the ocean. I have too many favourite holiday destinations to name one, but I love anything tropical, with a great beach.

Cara

Head of Department, Administration

I am from Townsville and really enjoy living in such a great community. I am a qualified Beauty Therapist and I have worked in the beauty industry for 12 years.

I have a passion for health and wellbeing. I love working with people and building relationships. That is what led me to Absolutely Dental.

I joined the administration team in November 2018 and I have learnt so much in a short period of time and I value every part, especially having a chat with patients!

It is amazing to see the results of great dentistry and working with people that are so passionate about making everyone feel confident with their smile.

Kayla

Head of Department, Clinical

I grew up in Ingham on my family's cane farm. Whilst in year 11 I was fortunate enough to gain a position as a trainee dental assistant at a local dental practice where I completed my Certificate III in Dental Assisting. At the end of year 12 I moved to Townsville and joined the Absolutely Dental team in December 2017.

Soon after settling in I completed my Certificate IV in Dental Assisting. Over the years working here, I have learnt so much and also grown and developed many skills that I am extremely grateful for. As a Clinical Coordinator, my favourite thing about my job is being able to hire staff with no dental experience and train them up to be amazing dental assistants, as I find it gratifying to watch them grow. 

When I am not at work I love being outdoors and keeping active. On a weekend I am usually spending time with my partner exercising, fishing or travelling back to Ingham to visit family. 

I love working in the dental industry as it's extremely rewarding being able to help patients achieve their dream smiles!

Kelly

Head of Department, Clinical

I became part of the team in November, 2019.

 Although I've been employed in many different fields of work over the years, Dental Assisting is by far the most interesting, challenging and rewarding role I've had. 

 To increase my knowledge and abilities, I'm currently studying a Certificate III and IV in Dental Assisting and hope to complete them by the end of the year.

I have 2 beautiful children and a dog.
In our free time we enjoy camping and motorbike riding.

I look forward to meeting you. 

Ashleigh

Head of Department, Marketing

I moved to Townsville in 2016 and started studying a Bachelor of Business in Marketing, after growing up in Ayr on my parent's cane farm. In 2021 I joined the Absolutely Dental team as an administration assistant and became the Marketing Coordinator in 2022 after returning to my tertiary studies at Griffith University.

When I'm not at work, you will find me in the Burdekin spending time with my friends and family, travelling, and trying new foods.

I love working at Absolutely Dental, and being able to work with an incredible team that help patients achieve their life changing smiles! 

Jaleeza

Administration Coordinator

I started with Absolutely Dental in 2021. My working career has been focused in customer service roles across a variety of industries, where I was given the opportunity to develop my interpersonal and communication skills. In my spare time, I enjoy reading and spending time with my fiancé and our 2 little dogs. 

I enjoy working at Absolutely Dental as I'm able to take part in creating a pleasant dental experience for our patients. 

Trish

Kirwan Practice Coordinator

After living out west most of my life I thought I would make a change and move my family to the big city. We all thought Townsville had great opportunities to offer and we have now been living here happily for three years.

 I have a strong passion for working in customer service with patients of all ages and discussing potential ways of gaining better health and improving quality of life. I have worked in various education roles such as an Kindergarten Director and Teachers Aide supporting children in special education, primary and high school. I have also enjoyed working as a Medical administration officer for many years in previous positions.

 I am currently studying a Diploma in Practice Management which I hope to complete this year to further my studies in Customer Service, Human Resources and Accounting as these are my keen interests. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends in my spare time and I also love to travel. Even if it’s a short distance away to get out of the house and have some fun.

 Since commencing my role at Absolutely Dental I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment, what a great team and how wonderful it is to work at a place where you can’t wait to go to work each day.

Chloe

Administration Assistant

I joined the Absolutely Dental team in February 2021, shortly after completion of year 12 in 2020.  I have a customer service background and really enjoy meeting and chatting with our patients and their families.  I was born and raised in Townsville.  I have a passion for photography and wish to pursue a career in this industry with the dream of one day owing my own business.  Sometimes you may find me snapping pics of the team around the practice.  I love working at Absolutely Dental because of the lovely team I work with.

Swana

Administration Assistant

I was raised on Murray Island, a remote community in the Torres Strait and moved to Townsville in 2005. After completing high school, I worked as a stylist in the fashion industry and further developed my customer service skills in telemarketing and sales.

My passion has always been to support people to look after their health and I jumped at the opportunity to work with the Administration team at Absolutely Dental in 2023. We pride ourselves on our friendly and welcoming environment and I love the relationships and friendships that I have built here. I enjoy coming into such a positive work environment where I can use my customer service skills to help make our patient's dental experience as pleasant as possible.  

Cheryl

Administration Assistant

I moved to Townsville to complete my Science Degree in The 80's. I then completed a Post Graduate Diploma of Education and began teaching Science at Collinsville SHS. After two years I won a job at Flight Centre in Townsville which took my passion for travel to new heights, leading to my husband and I quitting our jobs and travelling through Europe and South America for seven months. 

Upon our return, I worked at Mike Ball Dive Expeditions and took advantage of the opportunity to Scuba Dive. After the birth of our daughters, I worked as a Workplace Trainer and eventually ended up at The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, allowing me to combine my science and teaching qualifications as the Training Coordinator. 

My husband and I plan to continue our globe-trotting ways, but I am so grateful to have the opportunity to work at Absolutely Dental with the wonderful Admin Team. Absolutely Dental is one of the nicest places I have worked and I am proud to be part of this family that genuinely cares for our patients AND our staff.  

Mikaela

Dental Assistant

I grew up in Townsville and started dental assisting with the Absolutely Dental team in 2020. I enjoy assisting for surgical procedures the most, however, the best part of my job would have to be the friends I've picked up in my time here. 

I mainly spend my time outside work hanging out with mates and family, taking my two dogs out for a run (or a puppacino), or on Aunty duty with my little nephew. 

Grace

Dental Assistant

I grew up in Townsville and living in the same house for 21 years. I started at Absolutely Dental on the 1st of August 2021 as a trainee dental assistant. I started my Certificate III  in dental assisting before getting the job here, I was fortunate enough to be taken on as a trainee whilst working on my studies. I had never thought of being a dental assistant until I decided to try something new. 

Once I finished my Certificate III a year later, I noticed a lot of growth in my development and skills and overall learnt so much in my role with the new abilities I have. I love giving my knowledge to new staff and also to patients we take care of each day. My role is so rewarding and the team I have around me are amazing and I have made many friendships. 

Issy

Dental Assistant

After finishing Year 12 in 2022, I decided to take a gap year to gain practical experience and better prepare for my future studies. Working as a dental assistant has not only offered me hands-on experience in the dental field, but also confirmed my career aspirations of pursuing dentistry. In this time I have completed a Certificate III in Dental Assisting and discovered a passion for working in healthcare. 

Currently, I am studying at University, taking the next step toward my goal of gaining entry into a dentistry program. My favourite aspect of dentistry so far is witnessing the joy and confidence that a healthy smile brings to patients. Outside of work and uni, I enjoy camping, scrapbooking, and of course, getting lost in a good book. 

Siena Thompson

Dental Assistant

I grew up in Townsville and started dental assisting in March of 2022. I completed my Certificate III at the end of 2023 and am now studying my Certificate IV. I love to travel and have been to 27 countries. Japan is my favourite country so far. When I'm not at work, I'm usually spending time with the girls, cheerleading, or at home with my 2 cats and my snake. 

Charlie

Dental Assistant

Originally from Townsville, I kickstarted my dental assisting journey in Brisbane at 21, and have since returned to my roots, continuing to help my community achieve optimal oral health and confident smiles. 

When I'm not assisting patients or in clinic you can find me dining out, indulging in some retail therapy, or spending quality time with my partner and our two furry companions. 

I love working in the health field and all things dental, especially the surgical side of things!  

Isobel

Dental Assistant

Raised in Cairns, I moved to Townsville in 2019 to attend university. After graduating with an associate's degree in Health Sciences, I decided to pursue dental assisting.

When I'm not at work, I'm usually doing projects around the home - either renovation, gardening, sewing, or crocheting. 

If I'm not out and about, you'll usually find my dog by my side.