Dr Michelle Pinto
Co-founder and Dentist
Dentistry isn’t just about the way you look, it’s also about how you feel. Dr Michelle has always believed this, and is here to help you feel good about your smile. Originally hailing from Brazil – smiling is essential to their culture – she loves dancing, meeting new people and just enjoying life. She brings the great vibes always, and a beautiful smile, 24/7.
Dr Kimberly Ivett
Dentist
You might’ve caught Dr Kim on Foxtel E! or the Style Channel, but we know her as the powerhouse behind some of the best smiles in town. With advanced training from around the globe, she’s got skills & style. Cosmetic makeovers, TMJ pain or sleep concerns, Kim’s known for helping even the most nervous patients feel at home with real solutions and genuine care. Outside the clinic, she’s cheering on great causes, marching in Mardi Gras, and adding extra fabulousness wherever she goes.
Renee Phillips
Co-founder and other non-clinical things
A dental stalwart (who hates the word stalwart - ick) who’s been in ‘the biz’ for more than 30 years. Working across all areas in the dental industry from dental technician to sales and marketing, it’s always been Renee’s dream to open a clinic that’s ‘for the people’, implementing all the good stuff she’s seen over her (many, many… - alright, c’mon!) years, and leaving out the bad.
Gabi Catuzzo
Group Head Nurse and Dental Lab Assistant
Gabi’s been with us since day dot – and let’s be honest, Cheeky would fall apart without her. She’s the calm to the chaos, the playlist queen, the one making sure everything gets done (while pretending she’s not rolling her eyes at Michelle’ jokes). From patient care to clinic logistics, Gabi runs the show with heart, humour, and the patience of a saint. She keeps things humming, brings the good tunes, and occasionally spoils us with her epic cooking. Basically: she’s the MVP behind the scenes – and we love her for it.
Josie Burningham
Cx Officer
Straight outta the UK (Cheekys very own Bridget Jones), Josie used to boss the beauty game as a beauty buyer and makeup artist. She’s swapped highlighter for high-fives at the front desk and she brings main character energy to Cheeky. Whether she’s greeting you with a grin or running the vibe of the place, Josie’s our go-to girl for good chats and great playlists. When she’s not singing along (badly or brilliantly – depending on the day), you’ll find her in a sunny Sydney spot, headphones in, watercolours out, painting the town pretty. Total creative queen.
Carol Pastana
Clinical Director and Dental Assistant
Originally from Brazil, Carol’s not just a registered nurse – she’s a full-time legend with a heart of gold. She’s been keeping things calm, kind and running smoothly at Cheeky for nearly two years. Whether she’s lending a hand or busting a move on the dance floor, Carol brings good vibes, a big smile, and the kind of care you don’t forget.
Micheli Gasperetto
Dental Assistant
Hailing from Brazil, Micheli originally came to Australia for seven months… that was three years ago (oops). Now she’s one of the smiling legends who keeps Cheeky running like a dream. With a background in dental assisting and a degree in Production Engineering (yep – brains and banter), she brings calm, clarity and an organised edge. When she’s not making patients feel at home, you’ll find her doing breakfast chats and ocean dips with her mates.
Dr Nathalie Lee
Sleep Dentistry Expert
For patients who feel anxious about dental treatment, Dr Nathalie is a true game-changer. Our visiting sedation dentist, she provides IV (twilight) sedation — a specialised service that helps you feel deeply relaxed while remaining safely conscious, often with little memory of the procedure. A graduate of the University of Leeds, Nathalie has practised in Australia since 2011 and also teaches sedation and medical emergency training at Westmead Hospital. For many nervous patients, Dr Nathalie changes everything.
Dr Cristiane Ribeiro
Co-founder
Meet Cris, precise, focused, and seriously detail-driven. Brazilian with German precision, she’s known for her exacting standards and no-half-measures approach. Outside of work, she’s usually on the tennis court with her son, in the pool, or studying sports dentistry. Attention to detail is very much her thing.
Bolly
Kim's Dog
This fluffy little legend lives for naps and cuddles from patients. Bolly’s calming presence and cheeky little tricks are a real treat – if you’re lucky enough to spot him! Super well-trained and perfectly behaved, he knows exactly where he’s allowed (and where the snacks are hidden). Not around? He’s probably snoozing in Kim’s handbag or off living his best life. Don’t be shy – ask if Bolly’s in the house.
Jeffrey
Renee's Dog
Jeffrey is Cheeky’s unofficial mascot and Renee's very loyal (but utterly useless) assistant. Rescued from the Sydney Dogs & Cats Home, a charity close to our hearts, Jeffrey now spends his days perfecting the art of being a very good boy. He’s a bit of an anxious soul, so you won’t find him assisting with patients anytime soon. But what he lacks in professional skills, he more than makes up for in loyalty, cuddles and general handsomeness.