Dr. Pankaj Taneja

I became a dentist because it allowed me to combine two things I care deeply about: helping people and solving practical problems with my hands. Dentistry, and particularly surgical dentistry, gives me the opportunity to relieve pain, restore function, and make a real difference in people’s lives. Every patient presents a unique challenge, and I take pride in delivering thoughtful, precise care tailored to their needs. 

What I enjoy most about dentistry is meeting people from all walks of life and helping them through situations that can often feel stressful or overwhelming. Whether it’s a complex extraction or a surgical procedure, I focus on clear communication, empathy, and collaboration. I believe patients deserve to feel informed and involved in their care, not rushed or uncertain. 

My professional journey has taken me across multiple countries and academic institutions, shaping both my clinical and academic approach. Oral surgery plays a critical role in overall dental health, particularly as untreated dental disease remains a leading cause of pain and hospital admissions in Australia. My goal is to deliver safe, evidence-based surgical care while ensuring every patient feels supported before, during, and after treatment. 

How I stay healthy and happy

I stay healthy by running regularly, which helps me maintain both physical fitness and mental focus. I stay happy by spending quality time with family and friends and exploring different parts of Australia. Those experiences help me recharge and keep perspective.

How I maintain healthy teeth and gums

I keep things simple and consistent: brushing twice a day and maintaining a healthy, balanced diet.

Area(s) of expertise

• Simple and Surgical Tooth Extractions
• Oral and Dentoalveolar Surgery
• Management of Impacted Teeth and Surgical Exposures
• Pre-Prosthetic Surgery
• Oral Biopsies

Education

• Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), University of Sheffield, UK
• PhD, Aarhus University, Denmark

Board certification

• Member of Oral Surgery (MOralSurg)
• Registered dental practitioner (international specialist training)

Essential tip to keep your teeth healthy

Eat well, brush twice a day, and don’t forget to floss. Most importantly, attend regular dental check-ups. Prevention and early intervention make a significant difference to long-term oral health.