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Meet Dr Eliza Santalucia

Eliza was born and raised in Geelong and completed her schooling at The Geelong College (OGC 2016). She went on to study a Bachelor of Biomedical Science at Deakin University, graduating in 2019 with Distinction and major in Infection and Immunity.


In 2020, Eliza joined Lara Smile Group as a dental assistant. During this time, she developed a strong passion for dentistry and patient-centred care, inspiring her to pursue a career as a dentist. In 2021, Eliza moved to Sydney to study a Doctor of Dental Medicine at the University of Sydney.


Since graduating in 2024, she has gained valuable experience working across both public and private sector (Barwon Health & Lara Smile Group) where she provides care for patients with a wide range of cultural backgrounds and dental needs. 


Eliza strongly believes in prevention as the foundation of oral health. Her approach is evidence-based, focused on patient education, clear communication and regular recall visits to help patients maintain long-term dental wellbeing. She is passionate about ensuring every patient understands their oral health and feels confident in their treatment decisions. Throughout her training and early career, Eliza has treated patients from diverse backgrounds and with a variety of needs, including patients with intellectual or physical disabilities, mental health conditions and complex, chronic and/or terminal medical conditions.


Eliza’s aspiration to become a dentist was shaped by her personal understanding of anxiety and neurodiversity. She is committed to creating a dental experience where every patient feels safe, heard and supported and strives to provide dental care for patients in a respectful, comfortable and inclusive environment.


Her compassionate approach has already made a meaningful impact on many patients early in her career. At Barwon Health, Eliza has supported numerous patients with autism, dental anxiety or phobias to receive ongoing dental care. In 2025, she also became one of the main points of contact for patients referred for treatment through the Pathway to Good Health initiative at Barwon Health, a program that provides health screening and assessments for children entering or returning to child protection.

 

Her professional interests include preventative family dentistry, particularly paediatric care for children, as well as management of periodontal disease (gum disease) and tooth decay – all with the goal of helping patients maintain lifelong dental health.


Outside of the practice, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, and she is an avid animal lover who loves to spoil her 17-year-old Jack Russell, 10 year-old Parson's Terrior and 8-year-old tuxedo cat. Eliza can relate to many patients with a sweet tooth and can often be found indulging in salted caramel ice cream! A little-known fact about Eliza is that she is a retired ballerina and dancer, having trained at Expressions Ballet Academy.