Our Practice

Our Practice

Our Practice

Why Choose Hunter Dental Group?

For over three decades, we’ve proudly served the Hunter Valley region community with compassionate, high-quality dental care. As a locally owned and operated practice, we’ve had the privilege of caring for generations of families building long-lasting relationships based on trust, respect, and results. From routine check-ups to more complex dental care, our team is dedicated to making you feel at ease, informed, and genuinely cared for.

Many of our patients have been with us for years and now bring their children and even grandchildren through our doors. We take the time to get to know you, understand your concerns, and provide care that’s tailored to your needs, just clear advice, practical solutions, and a genuine commitment to your long-term oral health.

Why Choose Hunter Dental Group?

For over three decades, we’ve proudly served the Hunter Valley region community with compassionate, high-quality dental care. As a locally owned and operated practice, we’ve had the privilege of caring for generations of families building long-lasting relationships based on trust, respect, and results. From routine check-ups to more complex dental care, our team is dedicated to making you feel at ease, informed, and genuinely cared for.

Many of our patients have been with us for years and now bring their children and even grandchildren through our doors. We take the time to get to know you, understand your concerns, and provide care that’s tailored to your needs, just clear advice, practical solutions, and a genuine commitment to your long-term oral health.

Meet the Team

Meet the Team

At Hunter Dental Group, we believe that building trust starts with getting to know the people who care for your smile. Our team of experienced dentists and oral health therapists are not only highly skilled, they’re also warm, approachable, and genuinely passionate about helping patients feel comfortable and confident with their care.

Whether you’re here for a routine check-up or something more involved, you’ll always be treated with kindness, respect, and personalised attention. We’re proud to be a part of the Hunter Valley community, and we’re here to support you and your family every step of the way.

At Hunter Dental Group, we believe that building trust starts with getting to know the people who care for your smile. Our team of experienced dentists and oral health therapists are not only highly skilled, they’re also warm, approachable, and genuinely passionate about helping patients feel comfortable and confident with their care.

Whether you’re here for a routine check-up or something more involved, you’ll always be treated with kindness, respect, and personalised attention. We’re proud to be a part of the Hunter Valley community, and we’re here to support you and your family every step of the way.

Get to know the friendly faces behind your dental care below!

Dr. George Patience

Dr. George Patience

FOUNDER AND DENTIST

FOUNDER AND DENTIST

Hi my name is George and I am the owner and founder of Hunter Dental Group. With over 35 years of experience I have become the familiar face of our dental practices throughout the Hunter Valley.

With attention to detail I strive to give my patients the most comfortable and friendly environment possible while looking after their individual needs. Covering all aspects of general dentistry from check-ups through to mini dental implants, I also enjoy seeing our patients smiling happily and confidently through cosmetic dental treatments. You will find me at our Cessnock, Greenhills and Dungog Dental clinics. I also have a keen interest in aesthetic treatments, with my background in dental anatomy, offering treatments that refresh and enhance facial features feels like a natural extension of what I do every day.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my Grandson Billy, walking my dogs and watching Soccer!

Dr. Margaret Kingston

Dr. Margaret Kingston

DENTIST

DENTIST

Hi my name is Margaret. I bring to Hunter Dental Group over 10 years of experience in Dentistry. Taking pleasure in building a strong foundation and relationship with patients and being available to meet their needs as they arise.

I particularly enjoy treating children and their families. It is a very important role that children feel safe and comfortable with the same face they see at the dentist year after year.

I have a keen interest in paedodontics (treating children) and minor oral surgery (extractions), however I am experienced in all aspects of dentistry. You will find me at our Dungog clinic.

Dr. Angus Zhou

Dr. Angus Zhou

DENTIST

DENTIST

Hi, I’m Dr. Angus, and I’ve been part of the Hunter Dental Group since 2023. I graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Science from Charles Sturt University in Orange and currently work at our Cessnock clinic.

I enjoy all aspects of general dentistry but have a particular interest in oral surgery, especially complex surgical extractions. I’m passionate about making dental visits as comfortable and stress-free as possible and aim to provide compassionate, high-quality care for all my patients.

When I’m not at the clinic, you’ll usually find me at the beach or playing social sports like ultimate frisbee or basketball.

Dr. Katrina Puchalski

Dr. Katrina Puchalski

DENTIST

DENTIST

Dr. Azher Al Abedi

Dr. Azher Al Abedi

DENTIST

DENTIST

Dr. Tanisha Fernando

Dr. Tanisha Fernando

DENTIST

DENTIST

Hi, I’m Dr Tanisha and I’m a dentist focused on providing judgment free care. I graduated from Charles Sturt University with a Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence. I take a special interest in complex oral surgery cases including wisdom teeth extractions. I currently work at the Cessnock clinic.

I perform preventative dentistry by tailoring each treatment plan with a patient’s long term oral health goals in mind. I clearly present several treatment options to allow you to make confident decisions about your care.

I understand that attending the dentist can be a stressful experience, especially for those with dental anxiety. I will take the time to listen and understand where your anxieties stem from, and offer personalised solutions to help you feel at ease throughout your visit.

Outside of the clinic, you’ll find me playing with my dog, walking by the beach, or taking dance classes!

Dr. Nick Chen

Dr. Nick Chen

DENTIST

DENTIST

Dr. John Bang

Dr. John Bang

DENTIST

DENTIST

Dr John Bang graduated from the University of Adelaide and worked around Australia in Adelaide, Tasmania and Port Macquarie before choosing to call the Hunter Region home.

John is passionate about modern dentistry. He incorporates digital technology to deliver treatment that is precise, efficient, and comfortable. He strongly believes in patient education and shared decision-making, ensuring every patient feels informed and confident about their care.

As John often says “It’s my job to explain what’s happening, the consequences, and the available options — but at the end of the day, it’s your mouth and your choice.”

His clinical interests include minor oral surgery and dental sleep medicine. John is committed to providing thoughtful, evidence-based care that not only improves oral health, but also enhances overall wellbeing. Dr Bang can be found at our Greenhills clinic.

Dr Geetikka Kishnani

Dr Geetikka Kishnani

DENTIST

DENTIST

Dr Geetikka Kishnani (Dr Geet) joined Hunter Dental Group after completing a dual Science degree and her Doctor of Dental Medicine at the University of Sydney. During her studies, she was awarded First Class Honours and the University Medal, which fueled her ongoing interest in publishing scientific research and staying up to date with changes in dentistry. This commitment to the science behind the smile allows Dr Geet to bring evidence-based techniques into her daily practice.

While she enjoys all facets of general practice, Dr Geet has a particular interest in Endodontics (Root Canal Therapy) and Emergency Management. She understands that dental emergencies can be a stressful experience and prides herself on providing calm, efficient, and decisive care when her patients need it most. Her goal is to ensure every patient leaves the clinic with a clear understanding of their long-term health.

You will find Dr Geet practicing at our Dungog, Greenhills, and Cessnock clinics.

Outside of the clinic, Dr Geet values time spent with her family and appreciates the quieter pace of a Sunday morning. She is a keen reader who enjoys travelling, and happily welcomes suggestions for great brunch and matcha spots.

Brittany Trudgett

Brittany Trudgett

ORAL HEALTH THERAPIST

ORAL HEALTH THERAPIST

Hi my name is Brittany and I am an Oral Health Therapist seeing patients at the Greenhills Clinic.

I graduated from university in 2017 with distinction and a School award for Commitment to the Profession. I enjoy spending my time at the beach, stand up paddle boarding and reading. I love to travel and to date have visited almost 30 countries.

I am committed to making my patients feel comfortable and reassured while in clinic, and empowered to embrace positive oral health practices at home. My strengths lie in paediatric and preventative dentistry, and in treatment of Periodontal (Gum) Disease. I am passionate about oral health promotion and education.

I love working with Hunter Dental Group because of the incredible team which are more like family than colleagues.

Chloe Dimmock

Chloe Dimmock

ORAL HEALTH THERAPIST

ORAL HEALTH THERAPIST

Hello, I’m Chloe! I have a degree in Oral Health Therapy with adult scope from The University of Newcastle. I can see you for your checkup and clean, x-rays, whitening, children’s dentistry, mouthguards and treatment of decay and gum disease. You will find me at our Greenhills clinic.

I’m passionate about preventive dental and overall health and well-being. I love seeing children (from as early as when their first tooth erupts) and I have a special interest in treating the dentally anxious patient.

When I’m not at Hunter Dental Group I run Oral health programs in aged care facilities. My non-dental interests are spending time with my family, getting out in the garden, eating nice food and binge watching a series on Netflix.

If you are nervous about attending dental appointments or you have been putting off getting your regular check-up and clean, I’m very patient, gentle and easy to talk to. I look forward to meeting you!

Alice Vogel

Alice Vogel

ORAL HEALTH THERAPIST

ORAL HEALTH THERAPIST

Hello, I’m Alice and I’m an Oral Health Therapist here at Hunter Dental Group.

I practice out of the Cessnock clinic and thoroughly enjoy being a part of a supportive team of oral health professionals that encourage each clinician to reach their full potential.

I completed a Bachelor of Oral Health Therapy at the University of Newcastle in 2020 finding a passion in educating my community on the benefits of maintaining good oral health. I find it extremely rewarding helping both children and adults overcome their dental anxiety as we work together to improve their oral health. I always look forward to seeing my patients smiling faces with their new found confidence when they return.

When I’m not working I enjoy spending time with my husband and our dog Brandy, and you can usually find me working on my veggie garden in the sunshine amongst the bees.

Hermela Belay

Hermela Belay

ORAL HEALTH THERAPIST

ORAL HEALTH THERAPIST

Lisa Bryant

Lisa Bryant

ORAL HEALTH THERAPIST

ORAL HEALTH THERAPIST

Cindy

PRACTICE MANAGER

PRACTICE MANAGER

Emma

PRACTICE MANAGER

PRACTICE MANAGER

Jess

DENTAL NURSE
& RECEPTIONIST

DENTAL NURSE
& RECEPTIONIST

Rebecca

DENTAL NURSE

DENTAL NURSE

Jane

DENTAL NURSE

DENTAL NURSE

Tanya

DENTAL NURSE
& RECEPTIONIST

DENTAL NURSE
& RECEPTIONIST

Katherine

DENTAL NURSE
& RECEPTIONIST

DENTAL NURSE
& RECEPTIONIST

Shaynie

DENTAL NURSE

DENTAL NURSE

Amy

DENTAL NURSE

DENTAL NURSE

Emily

DENTAL NURSE

DENTAL NURSE

Kara

DENTAL NURSE

DENTAL NURSE

Cassie

DENTAL NURSE

DENTAL NURSE

Bec

DENTAL NURSE
& RECEPTIONIST

DENTAL NURSE
& RECEPTIONIST

Brytnee

DENTAL NURSE

DENTAL NURSE

Steph

DENTAL NURSE

DENTAL NURSE

Helen

DENTAL NURSE

DENTAL NURSE

Kristy

DENTAL NURSE

DENTAL NURSE

Sally

RECEPTIONIST

RECEPTIONIST

Sandra

RECEPTIONIST

RECEPTIONIST

Narelle

RECEPTIONIST

RECEPTIONIST

What payments do you accept?

What payments do you accept?

We make payments simple we accept EFTPOS and all major credit cards. Cash is also welcome, though please note that we carry limited change.

HICAPS

We accept all private health funds with on-the-spot claiming through HICAPS. Just remember to bring your health fund card so you can claim your rebate instantly and only pay the gap.

Humm

Humm is a buy now, pay later service that lets you spread the cost of your dental treatment into interest-free payments over time, making it easier to manage your budget.

  • For smaller purchases, Humm’s “Little Things” plan covers amounts from $100 up to $2,000.
  • For larger treatments, the “Big Things” plan handles payments from $2,000 up to $30,000 — perfect for more extensive dental care.

Payment terms are flexible, with options to pay over 6, 12, 24, or up to 60 months, depending on your plan and repayment ability. All plans are subject to application and approval.

Afterpay

Afterpay is a popular buy now, pay later service that lets you split the cost of your dental treatment into four equal, interest-free payments over eight weeks. It’s ideal for smaller to medium treatments, allowing you to get care now and pay it off quickly and easily. Payments are due every two weeks, and you must pay on time to avoid late fees. Start with a spend limit that may increase over time with on-time payments. Maximum limits can vary, typically ranging from $500 to $1,500, depending on your repayment history. Afterpay is subject to application and approval, which usually happens instantly online.

Zip Pay

Zip Pay is a flexible buy now, pay later option that lets you spread the cost of your dental treatment over time with interest-free repayments, up to a set credit limit. You can choose your own repayment schedule, with a minimum monthly payment, making it easy to fit payments into your budget. Credit limits range from $350 to $30,000, with potential increases based on your repayment history. Zip Pay is great for medium to larger treatments and is subject to application and approval. The application process is quick and can often be completed online with instant decisions.