Meet The Woman Behind The Smile
Dr Danica O’Brien From Hanly Dental Studio
Fast Facts
Favourite place to unwind: On the cattle property in Habana
Out of scrubs: Riding horses or walking the dogs
Daily habit for focus: Planning the day ahead in the morning – both clinically and personally
Advice to clients: “You’re not alone… It’s okay to feel anxious. What matters most is that you’ve taken the first step.”
Dental myth debunked: “If nothing hurts, nothing is wrong.” Pain is often a late-stage sign, which is why routine check-ups and cleans matter.
Say hello to Dr Danica O’Brien, the newest smiling face at Hanly Dental Studio, bringing a mix of clinical excellence, country charm, and down-to-earth compassion to the Mackay region.
From a young age, Danica knew dentistry was more than fillings and flossing.
“Early on, I realised dentists don’t just fix teeth, they can ease pain, restore confidence and build lasting relationships with patients,” she said.
Seeing patients walk away smiling is one of the most rewarding parts of her role.
“It warms my heart to make patients feel comfortable seeing the dentist and encouraging a safe and pleasant experience in the dental chair.”
While her hands are steady with a scaler, her feet are more at home in boots. Outside the clinic, you’ll find her on horseback, walking the dogs, or relaxing on her family’s cattle property in Habana.
Danica believes great dentistry starts with trust. From the moment a patient walks through the door, she prioritises comfort, communication, and care that goes beyond the gums.
“We are here to listen and make you feel comfortable in the chair.”
What keeps you passionate about the industry?
A: The cases where the transformation goes beyond just teeth and truly impacts someone’s life and opinion on dentists in general.
