Innovation and resilience are at the heart of Tri-Dente, a business founded by Paulette, a visionary dental hygienist who has revolutionised the Australian dental landscape. In just a few years, Paulette has not only built a thriving business but also spearheaded significant legislative changes and developed a platform that empowers her peers to achieve professional independence.
Breaking Barriers in the Dental Industry
Two landmark achievements set Paulette apart:
- Legislative Change for Independent Practice
Working closely with Federal Government MPs, including former Health Minister Greg Hunt, Paulette championed a ground-breaking change in legislation. This allowed dental hygienists and oral health therapists the right to establish independent practices. This move has opened the doors for professionals to build their own businesses, challenge traditional norms, and serve communities more effectively. - Innovative Business Expansion
Paulette’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish a home-based dental hygiene practice and launch a fully automated website that supplies high-quality dental products at wholesale prices to dentists nationwide. This dual approach combines personalised care with the convenience of e-commerce, transforming how dental professionals access essential supplies.
The Birth of Tri-Dente
Tri-Dente was born out of necessity and determination. Faced with challenges, including limited access to professional products as a non-dentist, Paulette identified a gap in the market and filled it with grit and innovation.
“I started Tri-Dente to source affordable, quality teeth whitening products without the excessive ‘dental’ pricing,” says Paulette. “There were no training courses or mentors to guide me, so I built everything from scratch.”
Her pioneering journey led her to become the first independent dental hygienist in Australia. Despite scepticism from peers, Paulette’s vision and persistence paid off, enabling her to build a successful business while mentoring others to follow suit.
Empowering Oral Health Professionals
Tri-Dente is more than a business—it’s a movement. The company offers CPD-certified training courses, including virtual and in-person options, to help oral health professionals gain independence, develop their personal brand, and transition into business ownership.
Through personalised mentoring, practical training, and a supportive community, Tri-Dente has helped countless dental professionals break free from traditional employment constraints. Paulette’s clients have gone from feeling disillusioned and overworked to launching their own clinics and mobile services, significantly impacting their professional and personal lives.
Tri-Dente’s Growth and Impact
Since its inception, Tri-Dente has experienced remarkable growth, evolving from a small start-up to a thriving business. Paulette’s success has also allowed her to involve family members in casual roles, with plans for regular employment opportunities in the future.
In addition to her thriving practice, Paulette secured exclusive distribution rights for a U.S. dental brand, offering her clients affordable, high-quality teeth whitening products. This not only lowers barriers for oral health professionals but also makes these services more accessible to the public.
A Holistic Approach to Success
Tri-Dente’s achievements are grounded in its commitment to:
- Practical Training: Comprehensive virtual and hands-on sessions equip clients with the skills they need to succeed.
- Affordable Products: Providing cost-effective, premium supplies ensures that practitioners can offer competitive services.
- Mentorship and Community: A private Facebook group fosters collaboration and combats the isolation often felt by solopreneurs.
Looking Ahead
Paulette’s work has transformed the dental industry, creating a ripple effect that benefits professionals and the wider community. Independent oral health practitioners now deliver high-quality, affordable care without long wait times, improving access for countless Australians.
As Paulette reflects, “Back then, I was told it couldn’t be done. Today, I’m proud to say I’m helping others achieve what once seemed impossible.”
Tri-Dente is not just a business—it’s a beacon of innovation, empowerment, and change in the Australian dental industry.
