About Westlake Dental —
Experienced Care, Built on Community
We are a local, family-owned dental practice in the heart of Westlake. Dr Gilbert Stehbens and Practice Manager Shaleen Stehbens built this clinic on a simple belief: that high-quality dentistry should be delivered with genuine warmth, absolute transparency, and no judgement.
Why We Do Things Differently
Westlake Dental is not a corporate clinic. It is a deeply personal practice, shaped by our own life experiences.
Before moving to Australia, Dr Gilbert and Shaleen survived two serious accidents in quick succession — a tree falling on Dr Gilbert, followed shortly after by a truck hitting the taxi he was travelling in. Surviving those events fundamentally changed their perspective on life, health, and what truly matters.
It led them to Brisbane, and in 2020 — right in the middle of the global pandemic — they took over Westlake Dental.
Their goal was to create a different kind of dental practice. A place where patients are never rushed. Where treatment options are explained clearly and honestly. And where the person sitting in the chair is always treated with the same care and respect they would give their own family.
Today, Westlake Dental is proud to serve the Centenary Suburbs. We are not just a business in Westlake; we are part of the community. You will even see artwork from talented local artists displayed on our clinic walls — a small way we support the neighbourhood that supports us.
Meet Dr Gilbert Stehbens — Principal Dentist
Australian-born Dr Gilbert Stehbens brings over 35 years of clinical experience to Westlake Dental. He is a graduate of Victoria University and the prestigious Otago Dental School, but his education did not stop there.
Dr Gilbert is committed to continuous, advanced learning. He has trained internationally at the world-renowned Kois Centre in Seattle, mastering complex restorative and cosmetic dentistry. He is also certified in Digital Smile Design (DSD), allowing him to plan and preview complete smile transformations with precision.
His clinical work speaks for itself — including designing the smile for a Miss Universe New Zealand. But his approach to everyday dentistry is what his patients value most.
Dr Gilbert believes in conservative dentistry. Whether you need a routine filling, a dental implant, or a complex full-mouth reconstruction, his philosophy is always the same: preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible, use the best available materials, and do the job right the first time so it lasts.
- •Graduate of Victoria University & Otago Dental School
- •Graduate of the Kois Centre (Seattle, USA)
- •Certified in Digital Smile Design (DSD)
- •Over 35 years of clinical experience
- •Focus on complex restorative, implant, and cosmetic dentistry
Meet Shaleen Stehbens — Practice Manager
When you call or visit Westlake Dental, the first person you will likely speak to is Shaleen.
Shaleen is not your typical dental receptionist. She holds a Master of Business degree and previously worked as a university lecturer in Singapore before transitioning to practice management. She brings the rigour of an academic and the warmth of a community builder to the front-of-house experience.
Her role is to ensure that your entire journey with us — from booking your first appointment to understanding your treatment plan and navigating health fund rebates — is smooth, clear, and stress-free. Shaleen takes the time to explain everything in plain English, ensuring you always feel informed and empowered to make the right choices for your health and your budget.
Advanced Technology for Better Outcomes
We believe that investing in the best technology means a better, safer, and more comfortable experience for our patients. Westlake Dental is equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment tools that many local clinics do not have in-house.
3D CBCT Imaging & Digital X-Rays
We do not need to send you away to a radiology clinic for complex scans. Our in-house 3D scanner provides highly detailed, three-dimensional images of your teeth, jawbone, and nerves. This is critical for safe, predictable dental implant placement and complex root canal treatments.
Intraoral Scanner
Say goodbye to messy, uncomfortable impression goop. We use a digital intraoral scanner to take highly accurate 3D models of your teeth in minutes. It is fast, comfortable, and perfect for planning Invisalign, crowns, and veneers.
Digital Smile Design (DSD)
Using advanced DSD software, Dr Gilbert can design your new smile digitally before any treatment begins. You get to see exactly what your final result will look like, ensuring we achieve a natural look that suits your face perfectly.
Our Commitment to You
We know that visiting the dentist can be daunting. That is why we make these three promises to every patient who walks through our doors:
No Judgement
Whether it has been six months or sixteen years since your last dental visit, you will never be lectured or judged. We are just glad you are here.
Absolute Transparency
We will always explain your options clearly, including the costs, before any treatment begins. No surprises, no hidden fees.
Gentle Care
Your comfort is our priority. We take the time to ensure you are numb, relaxed, and comfortable throughout your entire visit.
Ready to Experience Dentistry Differently?
Whether you need a routine check-up, are dealing with a dental emergency, or want to discuss a complete smile makeover, we would love to welcome you to Westlake Dental.