Meet The Team

Dr Sara Merritt is a New Zealand-qualified dentist who gained her Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from the University of Otago in 2016. Starting her career with Smile Dental, she worked in several clinics throughout the Auckland area, providing a variety of general dental treatments. Originally from Tauranga in the sunny Bay of Plenty, she practiced on the Sunshine Coast for four years before relocating her practice to Maven Dental Brunswick.

Dr Sara appreciates the variety that general dentistry offers and enjoys all aspects of providing dental care for all the family and for all ages. She also enjoys the detail challenges of ceramic restorations and takes every opportunity to keep up to date with technological advancements and techniques.

This is the first time Dr Sara has lived in Melbourne and she is enjoying exploring the city. When not practicing, she loves to play football, surf and spend time with friends and family, plus travel when she can. She’s also a bit of a foodie, so on weekends, you’ll often see her out with friends trying new cafes and restaurants!

Dr Elizandro Rangel, a seasoned dentist with a global footprint, brings a wealth of experience to Maven Dental Brunswick. His dental journey began at the Federal University of Espirito Santo in Brazil, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2000. After running a successful practice in his Brazilian hometown, Vitoria, Dr Rangel embraced the charms of New Zealand, where he has provided exemplary dental care for the past 18 years.

He holds a particular clinical interest in cosmetic dentistry, surgical extractions, and clear aligner orthodontic treatment. For Dr Elizandro, the most enjoyable part of his work is making patients feel welcome and at ease, as well as improving and maintaining dental health. He is passionate about forging lasting relationships with his patients, taking pride in the positive changes his work provides in their dental health and overall lives.

Away from the dental chair, Dr Elizandro indulges in photography, capturing moments through the lens with an artist's eye. He's equally adept with pencil and paper, often found sketching and drawing, channelling his creativity. A proponent of holistic health, he explores the synergy between the mind, body, and spirit, advocating for a balanced lifestyle. Dr Rangel's love for travel has not only shaped his professional journey but also his personal growth, allowing him to gather a wide array of experiences across the world.

Farah Saleem has worked in the dental industry in Australia since 2016, before completing her Dental Hygiene from TAFE SA as a decorated achiever. Since then, she has worked as a Dental Hygienist in various clinics.  

As a Hygienist, Farah’s approach is to ensure each patient’s treatment is comprehensive, thanks to her flair for attention to detail. Her bubbly yet gentle approach to treatment helps ensure every patient's dental treatment is a positive experience. She goes the extra mile to understand her patients' needs to best safeguard their oral health into the future.

Farah has a particular interest in:

• the prevention and treatment of gum diseases; and
• helping patients achieve good oral hygiene through healthy behaviours.

Outside of work she enjoys, Farah enjoys cooking, travelling to scenic parts of the world, and spending time with her family.