Behind every booming business, there’s always a story of how it all began — from the renowned Steve Woźniak who partnered with the late Steve Jobs to launch Apple Computer Co. from Jobs parents’ garage through to Jan Koum, a Ukrainian emigree to the USA, who invented What’s App in 2009. Each story offers inspiration to others treading these uncharted waters, and Rita’s journey is no exception. 

Rita’s family migrated from Ukraine in 1991, seeking a new life filled with opportunities in Australia. As an only child, she soaked up the entrepreneurial ethos her parents instilled when they gave up everything to start a new life. This foundation set the stage for her early years and put Rita on her path to success.

From a young age, Rita was drawn to the world of dentistry, but not just any branch of this field. Her heart was set on cosmetic dentistry. While her parents envisioned a medical career for her, Rita was captivated by the idea of transforming smiles and, through them, people’s lives. Cosmetic dentistry was so much more than just a profession — it was a way to bring joy and confidence to others. After all, first impressions count and our smile is the best first impression we can give. 

Rita’s journey began in the role of a volunteer scrub nurse while in high school. She would take the tram to her local dentist’s office once or twice a week for a few years, dedicating hours to cleaning the dirty instruments. It was her doorway into a world she yearned to be part of. Her dentist became a mentor, discussing cases and igniting in Rita a deeper understanding and love for the profession.

This dedication to her dream flowed into her academic life as well. Rita worked tirelessly through high school, driven by the goal that had embedded itself in her every thought. When she received the news that she had been accepted into a dentistry program, it was the happiest moment of her life, which she shared in tears over a phone call with her dad.

This continuous pursuit of knowledge marked Rita’s time at La Trobe University. She wasn’t content with just learning; she wanted to innovate. Rita became one of the few students allowed to perform cosmetic dental treatments, a feat she achieved through persistence and persuasion. She wouldn’t take no for an answer.

After university, Rita’s career took her to high-end dental practices in St Kilda East, Toorak and Burwood East. However, she quickly noticed recurring issues that plagued these high-end clinics. The smells. The appearance of the rooms. How little time was allocated for each patient. The lack of customer service. The overall unpleasant experience. The lack of communication between patients and staff. The lack of passion for the industry. Rita saw a gap between what the dental industry was and what it could be.

In 2021, driven by her vision, Rita embarked on her most ambitious project yet: her own dental clinic. She still hated everything about the dental industry, so she drew inspiration from the skincare industry instead. The gorgeous treatment spaces, nice smell and overall calming environment. She created a space that redefined the dental experience. Her clinic is not just a place for treatments; it’s a sanctuary of beauty, comfort and care, meticulously designed by Rita herself.

Today, Rita’s clinic is a destination for clients from all over Victoria and beyond, attracting celebrities, CEOs of some of the country’s biggest brands (L’Oréal, Adore Beauty, Country Road, Ultraviolet Sunscreen, Miss Universe Australia, Masterchef), and anyone seeking an exceptional dental experience. Her journey from a scrub nurse to a celebrated dentist and business owner is a story of transformation, for both Rita and the entire dental industry.