Book with Ropes Crossing Dental & Implant Centre

Dr Yong Gi Hong is a Sydney-based dentist with over a decade of clinical experience, shaped by service in both metropolitan practices and rural communities across Tasmania and Victoria. A Doctor of Dental Medicine graduate from the University of Sydney, Dr Hong brings a distinct advantage to his clinical work: his former career as a high school science teacher in New Zealand. This foundation enables him to distil complex dental procedures into clear, accessible language, ensuring patients feel genuinely understood and fully informed. Clinically, his approach is anchored in precision and long-term predictability, with a strong focus on full-mouth rehabilitation, dental implants, and clear aligners. Dr Hong operates on a philosophy of considered intervention. While he prioritises minimally invasive, preventative techniques to preserve natural tooth structure, he is highly adept at executing transformative full-arch treatments when clinically indicated—always balancing conservative principles with enduring functional and aesthetic excellence. Moving beyond formulaic treatment plans, Dr Hong builds collaborative partnerships with his patients, equipping them with the confidence to take control of their oral health decisions. Away from the clinic, he enjoys the simple balance of exploring parks and nature with his young family.

Dr Ravin Patel graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2011 and has extensive clinical training in Digital Smile Design, dental implants, full mouth rehabilitation, wisdom tooth surgery, and general and paediatric dentistry. In 2018, he completed a Graduate Diploma in Dental Implants at James Cook University in Cairns, Queensland. With over 13 years of experience across both the public and private sectors, Dr Patel has worked in a variety of settings, including Aboriginal Medical Services in Grafton, NSW, Coffs Harbour Base Hospital, corporate clinics such as HCF Bondi Junction, and private practices in Schofields and Minchinbury. Dr Patel has a particular interest in dental implants, wisdom tooth extractions, and cosmetic smile makeovers. Having fallen in love with the Penrith region during his first visit to Ropes Crossing, he is delighted to be the owner of this well-established dental practice and looks forward to welcoming and caring for the local community. Outside of dentistry, Ravin enjoys staying active through bike riding, bushwalking, swimming, and playing cricket.

Dr Poonam graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery in India in 2011. After moving to Australia, she successfully completed the Australian Dental Council Examinations and began practising as a general dentist. Known for her gentle, compassionate approach, Dr Poonam is committed to providing high-quality, personalised dental care and building trusting relationships with her patients. She has completed the OrthoEd Mini Masters and is currently pursuing a Diploma in Orthodontics. Dr Poonam has a particular passion for creating beautiful smiles through orthodontic treatments, including braces and clear aligners. She regularly attends continuing professional development workshops to stay up to date with the latest advancements in dentistry and orthodontics. She enjoys working alongside her husband, Dr Patel, as part of a team dedicated to making every patient feel valued, comfortable, and well cared for. Outside of dentistry, Dr Poonam enjoys cooking, reading novels, travelling, and stargazing.

Dr James Driessen graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Science from Charles Sturt University in 2022 and has since developed a reputation for the warm and attentive care he brings to every patient. He takes the time to listen to each patient’s concerns and works closely with them to create personalised treatment plans in a calm and comfortable environment. Dr James has a strong interest in restorative dentistry, complex periodontal disease, dental extractions, and the management of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. He is currently furthering his academic training by completing a Doctor of Medicine at the University of Sydney. Known for his friendly and compassionate approach, Dr James is committed to helping patients improve their oral health and overall comfort through tailored, evidence-based care. Outside of work, Dr James enjoys spending time with my family, reading, and going to the beach.

Dr Akkari graduated from the University of Sydney in 2008 with a Bachelor of Dentistry (Honours). Since then, Dr Akkari has worked in a variety of private practices in Campbelltown, Wollongong, and Tamworth, and has extensive experience across various clinics in western Sydney. While she is highly skilled in oral surgery, gum treatment, and preventive care, she has a soft spot for children’s dentistry and making visits to the dentist fun for the little ones. Dr Akkari gained extensive experience in treating simple and complex cases. Dr Akkari prides herself on her clear communication skills and on ensuring that her patients make confident, well-informed decisions about their treatment. Understanding that the dental chair can be a source of nerves, she goes above and beyond to put anxious patients at ease, ensuring you feel confident and cared for while working toward your healthiest smile.

Dr Joanna Tan wants to make a difference in her patients’ long-term health, and she likes doing so in a way that makes them feel at ease. She completed a Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the University of Adelaide more than a decade ago and is currently in the process of completing a fellowship for Orofacial Pain and Temporomandibular Disorder from Roseman University, Utah. She has worked in both the public and private sectors in South Australia, including tutoring at the University of Adelaide dental school and volunteering with the RFDS, before moving to Sydney. Her special interests lie in diagnosing and managing orofacial pain, root canal treatment, orthodontic treatment, children’s dentistry, and aesthetic dentistry. She is an absolute asset to Ropes Crossing.

Nini Nguyen graduated from the University of Sydney with a Bachelor of Oral Health. She is a gentle, caring and skilled practitioner who enjoys forming lifelong relationships with her patients, particularly the little ones, and strives to make the dental clinic a fun, comfortable and non-threatening place. Nini has a strong passion for oral and gum health, with a special interest in preventive dentistry, improving oral hygiene, and helping children develop positive dental habits from an early age. She believes education and prevention are the foundation of lifelong healthy smiles and takes the time to support and guide her patients in maintaining excellent oral health. She is thorough in her treatments, yet gentle, and always prioritises her patients’ comfort. She places great focus on educating her patients on the prevention of oral disease, as she understands how closely the health of the mouth is connected to overall well-being. Away from work, Nini loves discovering new places and activities and enjoys spending quality time with her friends and family.