With a strong interest in helping people maintain healthy teeth and gums, Nada Malik enjoys supporting patients in understanding their oral health and developing positive habits that can last a lifetime. As an Oral Health Therapist, she values the opportunity to work with people of different ages and backgrounds, making preventive care and patient education important parts of her approach.

After completing a Bachelor of Oral Health at Charles Sturt University, Nada gained clinical experience across Melbourne and Tasmania in a variety of dental settings. Working in different communities has broadened her understanding of individual oral health needs and provided opportunities to care for patients across a wide range of ages and backgrounds. These experiences have helped shape her thoughtful, patient-centred approach to oral healthcare.

Taking the time to listen and understand each patient’s concerns is central to the way Nada practises. Recognising that dental appointments can sometimes feel overwhelming, particularly for patients who experience anxiety, she places importance on creating a welcoming environment where people feel comfortable asking questions and discussing their care. Clear communication and gentle encouragement help patients feel more confident in understanding their oral health and the steps they can take to maintain it.

Preventive oral healthcare is a particular area of interest for Nada, with a focus on helping patients develop practical habits to care for their teeth and gums. Working with children is something she especially enjoys, recognising the importance of building positive experiences with dental care from an early age. Through age-appropriate education and supportive conversations, Nada aims to help younger patients feel comfortable with dental visits while encouraging healthy habits that can continue as they grow.

Building genuine connections with patients is one of the aspects of oral health therapy Nada finds most rewarding. Whether helping someone feel more comfortable during an appointment or supporting a child as they learn about caring for their teeth, the opportunity to contribute to a person’s oral health and confidence is something she values.

Away from the clinic, Nada enjoys reading, film and photography. Spending quality time with friends and family is also an important part of how she enjoys her time outside of work.

For Nada, one of the most rewarding aspects of being an Oral Health Therapist is building connections with patients and helping make dental visits a more positive experience. Working with children holds particular interest, especially when she can help younger patients feel comfortable and develop a positive relationship with oral health from an early age. Sharing practical advice, supporting patients who feel nervous and seeing people grow more confident in caring for their teeth and gums are all parts of the profession she enjoys.