Tanya was born and raised in Newcastle and graduated from the University of Newcastle in 2010 with a Bachelor of Oral Health. She has a strong passion for children’s oral health and is the author of Mouth Monster, a book aimed at promoting positive dental experiences for children. Tanya values a holistic approach to care, with a focus on the connection between oral health and overall health.

She has volunteered in Cambodia and worked across Newcastle, the Hunter Valley, and the Northern Territory. Before entering oral health, Tanya worked as a veterinary nurse, reflecting her long-standing love of animals—something shared at home, where her daughter has two guinea pigs. She lives in Lake Macquarie with her husband and daughter and enjoys giving gardening a go, even if it doesn’t always go to plan.