OUR DENTISTS
Dr Hani
Shafik
Dr Christina
Yang
Dr Stella
Karakasi
Dr Stella Karakasi
Principal Dentist (General Dentist)
B.D.S (Uni. Syd.)
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Dr Stella Karakasi is the principal dentist and with her husband, Eric Willma, founded Word of Mouth Dentistry® in 2003. Stella graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery from the University of Sydney in 1987. Upon graduation, she worked at the United Dental Hospital for a period, gaining invaluable experience in the Paediatric Department. Between 1990-1991 Stella was a Part-Time Tutor to Fourth Year Dental Students.
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After an adventurous, well earned holiday overseas, Dr Stella commenced working in a private practice owned by a leading Professor of Dentistry. She gained rare and invaluable experience during her thirteen years at that practice since 1989.
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On April 14, 2003, the doors at Word of Mouth Dentistry® opened and a new standard in dental client care had begun. In 2005, Word of Mouth Dentistry® won the local small business award for Best in Health Care and has been repeatedly winning awards ever since.
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Over the past 36 years, Dr Stella has devoted her professional energy to establish her own unique style of patient care , has committed to comprehensive and varied professional development programs and has an authentic passion in making people smile and actually enjoy their dental visits.
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Dr Stella has always considered it a priority to keep abreast of advancements in the various fields in dentistry. Since her graduation in 1987, she has diligently endeavoured to attend as many varied and relevant courses and congresses both in Australia and overseas (United States, Canada, and many places in Europe) in order to enhance her clinical abilities and broad mindedness. Professional development courses have been completed in various areas of dentistry including sleep disorders, aesthetic and restorative dentistry , implantology , myofunctional treatment and laser dentistry, to name a few .
Dr Stella places continuing education as a top priority for herself and her team.
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Dr Stella was also selected to be an Oral B ambassador in 2011 and travelled around Australia as part of the Channel 7 Weekend Sunrise team with James Tobin, on each weather cross, promoting the benefits of power brushing and contributed various oral health articles online and in print media.
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Dr Stella’s excellent communication skills make her patients not only confident in their understanding of their dental condition but also evoke a sense of empathy, trust, and authenticity of care.
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As Dr Stella has provided dental services to her local community for over 36 years, consequently, she has impressively treated four generations of families and ‘adopted’ them into her Word of Mouth family. Being a part of their lives for so long as their dental care provider fills her with a sense of humility, and joy.
For Dr Stella, being a dentist is not only being able to provide an excellent service to her patients but to provide it with passion, authentic care and a sense of pride.
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Dr Stella is an outgoing, fun loving dentist who really cares about her patients. She strives to make their dental experience as gentle and as fun as possible. Her aim is to develop a doctor-patient relationship based on trust, loyalty and satisfaction. It ultimately brings us back to Word of Mouth®.
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Her professional memberships include the Australian Dental Association and the St. George Dental Association.
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In her spare time, Dr Stella enjoys learning new skills including mosaic art, yoga, flower arranging, gardening and cooking .
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DR STELLA'S CAREER
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Dr Hani Shafik joined the Word of Mouth Dentistry team in 2008 and has over 24 years of experience as a general dentist and a great wealth of ongoing post-graduate knowledge stemming from his avid nature of wanting to always be up to date with the latest advancements and developments in the field of Dentistry and Holistic Medicine.
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Dr Hani qualified in 2000 from London-UK, studying at Guys & St Thomas United Medical and Dental Schools – one of the top dental education establishments in all of Europe.
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Having a father who is also a dentist; Dr Hani has developed a special interest in reconstructive dentistry which involves all aspects of Cosmetic as well as Functional Dentistry. He has attended several post-graduate training courses in Australia as well as the USA.
Dr Hani has attended the Las Vegas Institute of Dental Education, learning the skills of Total Smile Design at the original home of the Extreme Makeover TV Series.
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Dr Hani prides himself as a creative dental perfectionist!
Special Skills / Interests in Dentistry
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Prosthodontics & Smile dentistry
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Digital radiography, Cone Beam CT, and photography
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Endodontics & Dental Laser Therapy
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Occlusion & Management of TMJD
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Aesthetic & Cosmetic treatment including complex full mouth rehab.
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Implant placement & restoration (using ANKYLOS & Noble Biocare Systems)
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Interceptive & Neuromuscular Orthodontics (Removable & Fixed)
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Invisalign accredited dentist.
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Lumineers Accreditation
Professional Development / Further Education
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Many post graduate continuing education courses, lectures, conferences and symposiums locally and overseas including:
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Dr Derry Rogers - Anterior & Posterior Cosmetics In House training – Level P1 & P2 (Melb).
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Dr Galip Gurel - Anterior Aesthetics with Minimal Prep using Porcelain Bonded Restorations.
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Dr Newton Fahl - Composite Anterior Cosmetic Reconstruction - Hands-on Training - (AUS)
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Dr Steven Olmos - Management of TMJ & Occlusion Mini-Residency
(AUS x2 & USA symposium and In House Live Patient Training)
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Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Dental Studies LVI - 8 Courses
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Anterior Aesthetic Reconstruction with Ceramics (Live own patient hands-on training)
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Neuromuscular Occlusion 1 & 2 (Live patient hands-on training).
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Neuromuscular Orthodontics 1 & 2.
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Neuromuscular Implants 1 & 2 (Live own patient hands-on training ANKYLOS system).
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Posterior Aesthetics & Rehabilitation - Dr Ron Jackson (Live own patient hands-on).
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Dr Mark Otto - ANKYLOS Advanced Course & Hands-on Training (Dentsply – Sydney)
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Dr Paul Weigel - Expanded Implant Treatment Possibilities with ANKYLOS & other systems.
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Dr Ashok Sethi - Advanced Surgical Techniques in Implant Placement. & Restoring
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Dr Eddie Spiegel - Sleep Apnoea Diagnosis & Treatment with MAS devices. (AUS & USA)
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Dr Tony Simone - Neuromuscular Orthodontics Levels 1, 2 & 3 and In House Training (QLD)
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Dr Brock Rondeau - Interceptive Orthodontics (AUS x2)
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Rotary & Advanced Endodontics - (4 different courses)
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Laser Dentistry courses for Soft & Hard tissue laser use (AUSx1, USA x1)
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Practice Management courses
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Prime Practice Patient Communication Skills
Awards / Achievements
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Harry - Radin Prize for Special Needs Dentistry (2000)
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Malleson Prize for Clinical Dentistry Research (2000)
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1st Runner-up Award for Newland Peadly Medal for Full Mouth Rehab. Dentistry (2000)
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British Society of Dental & Maxillofacial Radiology Prize (1999)
Dr Hani enjoys an active social life with friends and family, picnics, BBQ’s, beaches and riding jet skis. He also loves playing Snooker, Badminton and Swimming and is a strong supporter of Australia’s Cricket team.
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Dr Hani Shafik
(General Dentist)
B.D.S (Uni. London U.K)
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Dr Christina is a Dental surgeon with over 18 years experience including over 8 years experience as a Medical Practitioner including as an accredited Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Registrar and working in various fields such as ENT, Plastic Surgery (Paediatric and Adult), Head and Neck Surgical Oncology. Dr Christina completed her Bachelor of Dental Science at the University of Western Australia in 2005 and has since completed her Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery in 2011 at The University of Notre Dame and most recently her Masters of Surgery at the University of Sydney in 2017.
Prior to working at Word of Mouth Dentistry Dr Christina was working as an Oral and Maxillofacial surgery registrar in Perth Western Australia.
Dr Christina has always been passionate about health and healthcare and therefore dentistry and medicine was a logical career option.
While Dr Christina is experienced in all aspects of dentistry she has a particular interest in oral surgery, emergency dentistry and aesthetic dentistry.
Qualifications
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Bachelor of Dental Science (BDsc) - The University of Western Australia
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Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) - The University of Notre Dame, Sydney
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Masters of Surgery – The University of Sydney University
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Examination Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons – Primary
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Australia - Diploma, Flute (Amus A)MEB (Australian Music Examinations Board) Associate in Music A
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AMEB (Australian Music Examinations Board) Associate in Music Australia - Diploma, Pianoforte (Amus A)
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Professional Development/Further education
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CLEAR/Critical Literature Evaluation and Research – Royal College of Surgeons – Sydney, Australia
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AOCMF – Principles in Craniomaxillary Fracture Management Course – Chennai, India
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CcRISP/Care of the Critically Ill Surgical Patient Course, Royal Australian College of Surgeons – Melbourne, Australia
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ATLS/Advanced Trauma Life Support Course, American College of Surgeons – Delaware, Unites States of America
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BSS/Basic Surgical Skills Course – Croydon, London
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Implant Seminar Course – Placement and Osseointegration - Sydney, Australia
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Progressive orthodontic seminar course stage 1 – Sydney, Australia
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Oral Surgery Extension: Enhancing Piezoelectric and Angled Implant Skills – Sydney Hospital
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Nobel Biocare Dental Implant Surgery Level 1 – Perth, Australia
Dr Christina is a strong believer in continuing education and keeping up to date on the latest research and techniques to be able to deliver the best to those under her care. Dr Christina regularly attends many post graduate continuing education courses, lectures, conferences and symposiums locally and overseas in both the dental and medical fields.
Dentistry is one of the careers where patients who are both well and unwell are regularly seen. Dr Christina enjoys the long-term relationships which are built with patients throughout the years. Dr Christina appreciate that dentistry is truly an aspect of healthcare where we can fulfil requirements of function, aesthetics and long term maintenance of good health.
Dr Christina grew up in Perth, Western Australia but now considers Sydney home. Dr Christina believes communication is one of the most important aspects of patient care and is fluent in English and Mandarin.
Dr Christina's patients know her as being caring, highly skilled and very likeable. We are very lucky to have Dr Christina on our team.
In Dr Christina's spare time she enjoys reading, travelling, keeping fit and music where she has been a member of the Western Australia Youth Orchestra, founded Music for Medicine which is a not for profit chamber music group where she and other doctors play music at hospitals, nursing homes and hospices and is also a member of the Australian Doctors Orchestra. Dr Christina is also a registered music teacher with the Australia Music Examination Boards teaching both flute and pianoforte.
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Dr Christina Yang
(General Dentist & Medical Practitioner)
B.D.Sc. (Uni. W.A.) M.B.B.S (Uni. Notre Dame Syd.) M.S. (Syd.Uni.)
AMEB Assoc. Music Aus. Dip. (Flute & Pianoforte)
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Dr Biljana graduated from dentistry in Macedonia over ten years ago and has been an enthusiastic exemplary senior member of our support team for 9 years acquiring great insight and experience with some of the most complex of dental procedures.
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Dr Biljana has been performing general dentistry at Word of Mouth Dentistry since early 2022.
Dr Biljana has a beautiful, caring personality and takes great pride in her ability to deliver a great dental care experience for you and your family.
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Dr Biljana Taleski
(General Dentist)
B.Dent. (Skopje)
ADC (Syd.)
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Dental surgeon providing expertise in Dental Surgery, IV Sedation and Implant Surgery
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Dr Simon Briggs has been part of our Word of Mouth Dentistry® team since 2004 and plays an integral role in providing first class dental outcomes and care.
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Dr Simon started a mobile practice in 2000 on returning from two years studying and working in the UK.
After graduating with his BDS in 1997, Dr Briggs worked in the Maxillofacial department of three prominent hospitals in London and Wales. He returned to Sydney with his Fellowship from the Royal College of Surgeons (FDS RCS) London, and began teaching and working at Westmead Hospital, Sydney.
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Dr Simon obtained his Diploma of Clinical Dentistry in Intravenous Sedation and Pain Control in 2000. He has expertise in wisdom teeth, IV sedation, dental implants and bone regenerative procedures. Dr Briggs normally has a registered medical nurse assisting him when performing treatment.
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Now with over 26 years experience in the field, Simon services over 35 practices in and around Sydney.
Dr Simon has completed multiple courses internationally and domestically in bone grafting, oral Implantology, Advanced Life Support and Intravenous Sedation.
Dental Philosophy
Driven by passion for treating patients to the highest level, Dr Briggs' personal approach to his vocation has ensured that patients are given professional care in a familiar and safe environment.
Benefits of using Dr Briggs' services
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Oral Surgery, IV Sedation and dental Implantology performed conveniently at Word of Mouth Dentistry®
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You are seen in a familiar environment and do not need to travel elsewhere.
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Dental phobic patients can have general dentistry done under IV Sedation Sleep Dentistry.
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Highly experienced and efficient surgeon minimising discomfort and post operative healing time.
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In his spare time, Dr Simon enjoys spending time with his wife and four children, collecting wine and playing soccer and tennis.
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Dr Simon Briggs
(General Dentist) - Providing expertise in Dental Surgery,
IV Sedation and Implant Surgery
B.D.S (Syd. Uni) F.D.S R.C.S ( Eng) Dip Clin. Dent (IV sedation)
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Dr Rita Kadi is a dedicated dentist with a passion for preventative dentistry and providing exceptional care to patients of all ages. With over 35 years of experience in the field, Dr Rita has established herself as a trusted professional committed to promoting oral health and delivering top-quality dental treatments.
Dr Rita obtained her Bachelor of Dental Surgery from the University of Sydney in 1987. Over the years, she has honed her skills, demonstrating exceptional proficiency in preventive care as well as all facets of aesthetic restorative dentistry, including implants. Understanding the significance of instilling good oral hygiene habits at any stage of life, Dr Rita approaches dental visits with genuine care and a gentle demeanour, ensuring a positive experience for patients of all ages, and fostering a lasting dedication to oral health maintenance.
As an active member of the dental community, Dr Rita is not only dedicated to her patients but also contributes her skills and knowledge to professional organisations. She is a proud member of the Australian Dental Association (ADA), of which she has chaired the recent graduates and marketing committees, actively promoting oral health awareness and advancements in dental care.
Dr Rita's commitment to continuing education is evident through her pursuit of professional development programs. She stays up to date with the latest research, techniques, and technologies in dentistry to ensure her patients receive the most effective and advanced treatments available.
Dr Rita also has a special interest in Children's Dentistry and has worked extensively in this area.
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Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr Rita is known for her excellent communication skills and ability to create a warm and comfortable environment for her patients. Dr Rita’s motto is “lead by example” and believes this fosters strong doctor-patient relationships built on mutual respect and open communication.
In addition to her passion for dentistry, Dr Rita enjoys being involved in her community. She actively participates in local events and initiatives aimed at promoting oral health and overall well-being.
When not in the practice, Dr Rita can be found exploring new cuisines, engaging in outdoor activities and spending quality time with her family.
Dr Rita Kadi
(General Dentist)
B.D.S. (Syd.Uni.)
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Dr Catrina Carroll
(General Dentist)
B.Ch.D. (Hons) Leeds Uni. M.F.D.S. R.C.S.Ed.
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Dr Catrina Carroll is a gentle and compassionate dentist with 15 years experience. Dr Catrina is committed to helping her patients achieve their best oral health possible by delivering treatment in a comfortable, empathetic and relaxed manner.
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Dr Catrina grew up in England and graduated with honours from the University of Leeds in 2010. She showed a considerable talent for dentistry right from the outset, achieving numerous outstanding achievement awards and medals throughout her studies. After graduating Dr Catrina focused on general dentistry in a large mixed NHS/private practice and went on to complete The Diploma of Membership of the Faculty of Dental Surgery of The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (MFDS RCSEd). Dr Catrina then developed her interest in surgery by practising maxillofacial surgery in hospital where she had specialist training in surgical extractions, particularly wisdom teeth.
Dr Carroll enjoys and excels in all aspects of dentistry, particularly restorative, oral surgery and complex full mouth rehabilitation, including implants. She uses contemporary materials and latest techniques to produce dental work that blends seamlessly with natural teeth. Dr Catrina is committed to enhancing her knowledge and skills for the benefit of her patients, and therefore keenly attends numerous post graduate courses to keep up to date with the current advances in dental procedures and technology. She is currently completely her post graduate diploma in Implant Dentistry.
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Her work ethic is gentle, friendly and reassuring and she is particularly good with nervous patients and children. Dr Catrina has excellent communication skills and always makes sure that her patients fully understand all of their treatment options.