Meet our Team
Stella Dental has a long history of being a premium dental care provider in the northern suburbs of Melbourne, with the foundation of our success relying on building and maintaining lifelong relationships, upholding professionalism, respect and kindness. We value long-term patient care and are proud to have continuing generations of patients trusting us with their dental health, since our establishment in 1978.
All patients can expect to be treated with warmth and respect by our qualified and caring dental professionals, as well as by our friendly nurses and receptionist.
Dr. Leo Stella (Principal Dentist)BDSc (Melb)
Leo attained his Bachelor of Dental Science Degree in 1993 from The University of Melbourne. After graduating, he started work at Stella Dental alongside his father, Dr Tony Stella, for a number of years before Tony retired and left the business in Leo’s capable hands. Leo has a keen interest in implant dentistry, endodontics, crowns and surgery. He is constantly striving for perfection and extending his professional knowledge and experience in all fields of dentistry as well as constantly participating in professional development opportunities. Leo speaks Italian and is a member of the Australian Dental Association (ADA) and a registered member with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). This enables Leo to offer his patients the very latest advances in dental treatment to ensure their long-term oral health and wellbeing.
Outside of work, Leo plays competitive basketball and enjoys keeping fit at his local gym. He’s a devoted Brisbane Lions (formally Fitzroy) AFL supporter who also enjoys reading philosophy books and spending quality family time with his supportive wife and two (now young adult) children.
Dr. Rita Stella (Dentist)BDSc (Melb)
Rita graduated in 2007 from The University of Melbourne to join the practice she grew up in. Rita has a special interest in patient education, dental phobias, paediatric and geriatric dentistry. She believes in caring for each patient like family and prides herself on making every dental experience a positive one. Rita speaks Italian and is a member of the Australian Dental Association (ADA) and is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
Outside of work, Rita loves training with her friends at Crossfit Blackburn, listening to podcasts and being creative. She also relishes spending uninterrupted family time with her caring husband and three young children.
Please note - Rita is currently on extended maternity leave.
Dr. Vicki Drew (Dentist)BDS (Otago)
Vicki graduated in 1997 from The University of Otago, New Zealand and has worked in Wellington, London and now Melbourne. Vicki joined the practice in June 2021 and has quickly become an integral member of the Stella Dental team. Her caring nature and contagious smile make for a relaxed and enjoyable dental experience. Vicki is a member of the Australian Dental Association (ADA) and is registered with Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
Outside work, Vicki is a busy mum to two teenage boys and enjoys good food and coffee, going on walks, time with her family and her beloved pooch Louie.
Nancy McGaw (Practice Manager)Cert III Dental Assisting
Nancy began her time at Stella Dental in its early days as a junior Dental Assistant. She took some time away to get married and raise her three (now very big) boys and then returned in her current position as practice manager. Her gentle, caring nature and over 20 years of experience make her the heart of the Stella Dental team. She enjoys yoga, travelling and spending time with her boys.
Emily Gioftsis (Dental Assistant)Cert III Dental Assisting
Emily joined us in 2017 as a young dental assistant in training. She quickly learned the ropes and has become an integral part of the Stella Dental family. Her friendly nature and positive attitude make her easy to talk to and laugh with. When she’s not working she enjoys lazy weekends and spending time with friends and family.
Vania De Marchi (Dental Assistant)Cert III Dental Assisting
Vania began her traineeship while she was still in school in the 1980's with her uncle Dr. Antonio (Tony) Stella. As Rita and Leo's cousin, she plays a central role in supporting all staff and patients alike and holds a Dental Assistant Nursing Certificate. Outside work she enjoys time with her family, bikram yoga, bike rides, long walks and a perfect cup of coffee! She is a great cook and appreciates quality food and wine.
Raffaella Wright (Dental Assistant)Cert III Dental Assisting
Raffaella joined the Stella Dental team in 2010 as an Apprentice Dental Assistant. Her dedication to patient care and wicked sense of humour puts a smile on everyone’s face! After a short time away to have her two beautiful children, Raffaella has returned to the practice to relax and enjoy time with her “dental” family.
Come and meet our welcoming and experienced team for yourself. Please book your appointment over the phone. Call our friendly staff on 03 9465 8833.