Meet Our Local Dental Team


Alicia Proper

Dental Hygienists

With 15 years of experience as a dental hygienist, my passion for providing comfortable and relaxed cleanings is rooted in my genuine care for each and every patient.


Beyond the dental office, you'll find me exploring new recipes in the kitchen, taking long walks with my husband and adorable yorkie, embracing nature through camping, and seeking the tranquility of water.


I look forward to extending a warm welcome to you.

Brenda Katabazi

Dental Hygienists

Brenda is a compassionate and detail-oriented Dental Hygienist, a proud graduate of Algonquin College, and is dedicated to promoting optimal oral health and patient well-being.


Brenda is passionate about ensuring every patient feels comfortable and cared for during their visit and is well known for having a gentle approach and a commitment to educating clients on maintaining healthy smiles. Outside of work, Brenda enjoys adventure and exploring new experiences, which fuels her ability to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds.

Ronaliza Palaganas

Dental Assistants

Rona Erive Palaganas is a Certified Level II Dental Assistant who graduated from Algonquin Careers Academy with outstanding remarks in her studies. Before starting her dental career, she worked as a Personal Support Worker (PSW) for nearly a decade, gaining valuable experience that has shaped her approach as a dental assistant.


Her background in the medical field has given her a deep understanding of the importance of establishing connections and rapport with patients, helping to put them at ease during treatments. Rona is known for her compassion and enjoys building connections with her patients appreciating the stories they share.


In her spare time, Rona loves spending quality moments with her loved ones. Her favorite hobbies include outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, camping, sightseeing, and gardening. One of her dreams is to own a farm someday.

Shawandra Whyte

Dental Assistants

As a dedicated level II dental assistant, Shawandra takes pride in providing quality patient care and ensuring a comfortable experience for every patient. With a strong background in chairside assistance and patient education, she strives to support both the dental team and our patients. Shawandra is also known for her friendly and caring nature which makes patients feel at ease when in her care.


Outside of work, she enjoys going on walks and spending time relaxing with her lovely cat, Dash. Shawandra is passionate about continuous learning and always looking for ways to grow both professionally and personally.

Aya Safa

Front Desk

Being a part of the East Ottawa Dental team from the very beginning and stepping into the world of dentistry has truly been a rewarding experience for Aya. At work, she is dedicated to fostering a friendly and welcoming environment for both patients and colleagues. Her pride in her Lebanese heritage has also been an asset, enabling her to connect with others and bridge communication gaps, particularly in Arabic.


Outside of work, Aya loves to spend time with friends and family, travelling back home to Lebanon, exploring new foods and scenery, and indulging in baking. Aya is deeply passionate about her culture and faith, and loves engaging in community initiatives that enable her to make a meaningful impact and help others.

Rayan Kmaiha

Front Desk

Rayan is one of our dental administrator with over four years of experience. She truly loves what she does because it allows her to connect with patients, making their visits enjoyable, and contribute to the smooth operation of the clinic.


Rayan is known for her humor and approachable nature, she strives to create a welcoming environment that patients appreciate. Outside of work, Rayan enjoys traveling, swimming, and expressing her creativity through fashion. With a degree in social work from Carleton University, she brings a strong understanding of human connections to both her professional and personal life.