Marija Cicirello

After finishing high school, Marija decided to become a dental nurse. So, she pursued this path and became a dental nurse for two to three years. Marija absolutely loved the job but what stood out for her were the roles of a therapist and hygienist. From there, she decided that a dental hygienist is the perfect career choice for her.

Marija later went back to study at Curtin University and finished her Associate’s Degree in Dental Hygiene in 1999. She then worked in a Perth-based practice for 18 years. When she left, she went to work with other dental clinics and finally ended up with 123Dental.

As a dental hygienist, her main tasks include:

Cleaning clients’ teeth
Taking X-rays
Taking impressions for mouthguard splints

Marija also makes sure that everything is set up for work, including cleaning and disinfecting the instruments before and after use.
Working at 123Dental makes everything easy because Dr Jack Brazel is a great boss and dentist. He is understanding and allows flexibility in the team, especially with the schedules. Marija also loves working with the whole team. Even though it is a busy practice, the job becomes fun because they all get along well.
Marija is a busy mum of two boys. She rarely has enough time for herself in between her responsibilities at home and work. However, she does make sure to exercise and de-stress as much as possible.

Having been in the dental industry for a long time, Marija has noticed a number of changes. One of the most prominent changes is that many young dentists are coming through, as evidenced by the team at 123Dental. Assistants, practitioners, and other staff members are also more passionate than before.
Technology is different, but a lot better. Invisalign or clear aligners are now available, so patients no longer feel forced to wear metal braces when they do not want to. There’s also improved access to digital x-rays and OPG machines. Orthodontics, thanks to technology, has become more convenient.
One more thing that is quite notable for her is that there is now a significant focus on education and training, which is vital in the industry.

Choosing to become a hygienist was not by accident. Marija was working in another practice, and she admired how the therapist was working with the patients. The level of professionalism and knowledge served as an inspiration to her.
When she started to work as a dental hygienist, it was not entirely surprising that children were scared of going to the dentist. However, things have changed. Now, they love it because Marija’s goal is to make them feel comfortable and less anxious about the procedures they need.
She has also learned that cleanliness is one of the most critical traits in the dental industry. Communication with the patients is essential, especially those who are nervous about their treatment. With Marija’s help, patients walk out wanting to come back.