We’re excited to welcome a new face to our Toowoomba practice! Dr Michael Chu has recently joined the team as Associate Dentist.
With a patient-focused approach and a strong background in oral health, Dr Michael is passionate about helping patients feel at ease in the chair and confident in their smiles.
We caught up with him to learn more about his path into dentistry, the areas he’s most passionate about, and how he unwinds outside the clinic.
Dr Michael, tell us a bit about your background and what led you to pursue a career in dentistry.
My path to dentistry wasn’t exactly linear. I originally completed a degree in kinesiology, which focuses on human movement and health. While it wasn’t directly related to dentistry, it gave me a strong foundation in understanding the human body.
Later, I had the opportunity to work at a children’s hospital, and it was this experience that ultimately inspired me to pursue dentistry.
What do you most enjoy about being a dentist?
For me, the most enjoyable aspect of being a dentist is the ability to make people smile. As dentists, we can make a real difference in people’s lives, often in a very short time.
It’s not just about fixing teeth or addressing dental conditions; it’s about helping people feel confident, comfortable, and healthy.
Is there a particular area of dentistry in which you have a keen interest?
My areas of interest are periodontics and oral surgery. Periodontics focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease and other conditions affecting the supporting structures of the teeth. Oral surgery, on the other hand, involves procedures such as extractions, implants, and surgical treatment of oral conditions.
I’m constantly amazed by the way these practices have the power to transform a person’s oral health.
How do you like to unwind when you’re not at work?
When I’m not in the clinic, you’ll usually find me doing something active outdoors; I enjoy running and love to go scuba diving when I get the chance.
I’m also a big movie fan, so you’ll often find me watching films.
Finally, what advice do you have for people who’ve been putting off coming to the dentist, perhaps due to nerves?
There’s a quote I like that I think is worth sharing here: "As you move outside of your comfort zone, what was once the unknown and frightening becomes your new normal.”
My advice is to take that first step - and remember that we’re here to support you at every stage of the journey.