Book with National Dental Care - Moonee Ponds

Dr. Payal graduated from the University of the South Pacific in Fiji Islands. She has worked in the public sector where she was a principal dentist at one of the clinics in Fiji. Apart from this she has also worked as a principal dentist at a private clinic in the Sultanate of Oman. She has completed her Australian Dental Certification. Dr. Payal loves practicing general dentistry and is passionate about cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry. Currently, she is also undertaking a few comprehensive training for cosmetic dentistry. She believes in taking a multidisciplinary approach in treating the whole mouth instead of treating a single tooth. Dr. Payal was taught from a young age to appreciate every opportunity to help others. She feels humbled with the privilege of being part of someone’s dental journey whereby she finds fulfilment of her work. Outside of work, Dr. Payal loves going for walks with her dog. She also loves travelling and experiencing different cultures and trying different cuisines. Dr. Payal is bilingual speaking English and Hindi.

Introducing Dr. Kedar Samant, a dentist with a passion for adventure. When he's not busy perfecting smiles at National Dental Care, you'll find him scaling mountains, exploring underwater worlds, or experimenting in the kitchen (with mixed results!). Since completing his Masters in Endodontics in 1999 in India, Dr Samant gained invaluable experience in prestigious hospitals in Bombay and his own practice. After moving to Melbourne in 2009, Kedar dove into the local dental scene, eventually finding his way to the charming town of Shepparton. There, he balanced running a practice, teaching at Melbourne University, and supporting the community through sports sponsorships and fundraisers. In 2024, he decided to return to Melbourne, bringing 30 years of expertise in Molar Root Canal Treatment, Surgical Extractions, Dental Implants, and Cosmetic Dentistry. Now, he's thrilled to be part of National Dental Care, dedicated to providing top-notch care to his wonderful patients. Let's keep those smiles shining bright!

James Medara completed his Bachelor of Oral Health at the University of Otago in New Zealand in 2011 and his post graduate qualification from the University of Melbourne in 2017. Since graduating, James gained a wide range of experience across both the public and private dental sectors and has been with Australian Unity for over 9 years. James is also a passionate dental clinical tutor for the undergraduate students studying at Charles Sturt University. James has a gentle manner and caring approach to all his patients and always ensures he listens and understands his patients’ needs and circumstances to be able to provide the most appropriate treatment options and achieve the best outcomes. He enjoys practising all aspects of general dentistry assisting patients of all ages, with particular interest in paediatric dentistry and complex periodontal therapy and restorations. James is always on the lookout for courses and conferences to enhance his knowledge. Outside of work, James enjoys spending time with his wife and keeping himself fit by going to the gym. He is also a keen rugby, basketball and cricket fan.

Dr Bill Sergakis joined our team in 1996. Dr Sergakis was born in Melbourne and graduated from the School of Dental Sciences at Melbourne University. Dr Sergakis enjoys the variety that general family dentistry offers but also maintains a keen interest in cosmetic and restorative work. In addition, he continues his education in developing new skills, techniques and technologies. Dr Sergakis has two young children and when not at work, he is always surrounded by his vast extended family, at some event or enjoying quiet times in his garage tinkering away on odd jobs or old classics.

Dr Cindy graduated with honours from Universidad del Desarrollo in 2010, Chile. She worked in the public sector where she was also the principal dentist at her workplace. She completed her Australian Dental Council certification. Dr Cindy recognizes the importance of good communication with patients to help make them feel more comfortable at their dental visit and to understand their needs. She likes to use a comprehensive and overall approaches for each patient. Dr Cindy enjoys all the aspects dentistry with special interests in restorative dentistry, family dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. She believes in the importance of continued education to update her knowledge and develop new skills so that she can provide good service to her patients. In her spare time she enjoys painting, reading and exercising and catching up with friends. Dr Cindy has Irish and Spanish backgrounds, and she is bilingual speaking English and Spanish.

Dr Sandro Zammit completed a Bachelor of Dental Science in 1989 from the University of Melbourne. Dr Zammit joined Australian Unity 25 years ago and has worked across our Box Hill and South Melbourne clinics, before moving with Head Office to Spring Street and transferring some of his days to Moonee Ponds. Dr Zammit has an interest in all aspects of general dentistry, including Root canal treatment, crowns and restorative implant treatment. In his spare time, he enjoys riding and sports photography.

Dianne Apostal is an experienced health care worker and has been working with Australian Unity Dental Care for more than 10 years. She started as a trainee dental assistant then became a qualified dental assistant. Dianne’s eagerness to learn made her decide to further pursue her career in dentistry and completed her Bachelor of Oral Health (with extended adult scope) at the University of Melbourne. Dianne provides seamless and personable service to all of her patients. She provides primary oral health care to children and adults of all age, including examination, diagnosing, treatment and prevention. She has a strong focus on oral health promotion by educating patients on good oral hygiene practices at home and dietary advice for the prevention of gum diseases and teeth decay. Outside work, Dianne enjoys her free time with family and friends and trying out different restaurants that Melbourne has to offer. Dianne is a nature lover and enjoys hiking and visiting the coast on a nice sunny day.