Lisa Do

I became an Oral Health Therapist because I wanted to have a direct impact on improving patients’ oral health through education and preventative care. I believe in solving dental issues “upstream,” addressing problems before they arise, by helping patients adopt the right habits and techniques. The ability to see my patients regularly for their six-monthly visits allows me to build meaningful relationships, guiding them to maintain their healthy and beautiful smiles. 

What I love most about my job is the chance to educate my patients on how they can take control of their oral health. Prevention is key, and by giving patients the tools and knowledge to look after their teeth and gums, I hope to reduce the need for treatment due to cavities or infections. Especially with children, I take extra care to ensure their first visit is a positive one. By explaining procedures in a way that’s easy for them to understand and ensuring they are comfortable, I help them overcome any initial anxiety and make their visits enjoyable. 

Outside of work, I enjoy staying healthy through my newfound love of running. What started as casual walks has turned into training for a half-marathon. I also find happiness in simple things like keeping my house neat and organized, which gives me peace and keeps me centered. Balancing work with activities like hiking and trying new restaurants helps me stay energized and maintain my work-life balance. 

How I stay healthy and happy 
I maintain my health through regular physical activity, particularly running. What started as casual walks has progressed to running 5 km park runs, and now I’m training for a half-marathon. Additionally, I enjoy keeping my living space organized, as it brings me peace and keeps me centered.

How I maintain healthy teeth and gums 
I make sure to brush and floss daily to maintain the health of my teeth and gums. Flossing is essential for removing plaque trapped between teeth, even though it can be tedious. I also follow a balanced diet, stay physically active, and drink plenty of water to support my overall health and, in turn, my oral health.

Essential tip to keep your teeth healthy 
As a coffee lover, one of my top tips for patients is to rinse their mouth with water after drinking coffee to prevent staining. If possible, brushing your teeth afterward is even better!

Education 
• The University of Melbourne
• Currently completing a PhD at The University of Sydney, focusing on access to oral health services in rural and remote Australia.

Area(s) of expertise 
• Preventative care
• Children’s dental visits
• Oral hygiene education