Dr Robert Sebel
Dentist · Preventive, Public Health & Community Dentistry
About Dr Sebel
A Longstanding Commitment to Community-Centred Dentistry
Dr Robert Sebel is a Sydney dentist with a special interest in preventive, public health and community dentistry. He studied dentistry at the University of Sydney, following in the footsteps of his father, who established a dental practice in Balmain in the early 1950s.
Across his career, Robert has combined private practice with postgraduate public health study, charitable dental service and oral-health education for children.
Background & Education
Sydney Roots and a Broad Education
Growing Up in Sydney
Born in Sydney and raised in Mosman, Robert attended Sydney Grammar. He represented his school in cricket and rugby, although surfing was his real passion.
Travel was also an important part of his education. During the 1960s and 1970s, he had the opportunity to visit the Philippines, Israel, Japan, Kashmir, Nepal and Thailand—experiences that helped shape his interest in communities and public health.
Following a Family Tradition
After high school, Robert followed his father into dentistry at the University of Sydney. He graduated with particular interests in preventive, public health and community dentistry, encouraged by Professor Barnard.
Those interests became a consistent thread through his clinical work, postgraduate study and community education.
Community Dentistry
Charitable Dental Work in Thailand
Care in Remote Communities
Before and after graduating, Robert spent several months over a number of years working in a charitable capacity with the Queen's Dental Service of Thailand.
The work provided dental treatment to hill-tribe communities and schools in remote areas of northern and north-western Thailand.
Prevention Through Education
Alongside treatment, the program focused on dental education and oral-health promotion. The experience reinforced Robert's belief that prevention and practical education are essential parts of lasting community health.
Practice & Postgraduate Study
Decades of Clinical Experience
- 1984
Began full-time work at the Balmain dental practice established by his father in the early 1950s. - 1993
Stepped away from full-time dentistry to travel extensively. - 1994–1996
Undertook full-time postgraduate study in public health dentistry at the University of Sydney. - 1997
Returned to full-time dental practice in Balmain.
Beyond the Dental Chair
Education, Family and the Outdoors
Local Oral-Health Education
As part of his community-dentistry focus, Robert gives dental education talks to preschools and primary schools in the areas where he works and lives.
Outside Dentistry
Robert values time with his wife and three children. Surfing and gardening remain his favourite ways to unwind.