We met Alf Licciardello at his bright, sunny orthodontic lab in Sydney's Five Dock. The welcome was full of the warmth and care that defines Alf's character.
His business, Alfodontics Dental Lab, has operated there since 1997, only a few years after its establishment.
Today, Alfodontics is a quality boutique lab. Alf doesn't aim to be the biggest. "We have always grown gradually and sustainably, ensuring that we maintain the highest standard of quality in our appliances and provide excellent service for our clients", said Alf.
Alf's journey as a lab technician began with work experience at an orthodontic practice owned by a family member. Despite an early interest in architecture, Alf found a natural gift for the complex art of wire bending. He discovered great satisfaction in the creative and hands-on nature of making orthodontic appliances. There was no turning back.
Studies commenced after being one of only 30 accepted into the dental technician course at Randwick TAFE that year. While the course covered all aspects of dental laboratory work, it was in the final six months that the course content cemented his love of orthodontic work. After a year or two at a private lab, Alf secured a training position at Westmead Dental Hospital. His patient pursuit of specialised orthodontic work eventually paid off when he landed a role within the hospital's Orthodontic Lab.
Many of the Orthodontists who practised at the Hospital became enamoured with Alf's skills. They, of course, had private practices and encouraged him to start his own lab, assuring him of their support.
Ever cautious and practical, Alf began buying equipment and gradually transitioned from full-time employment to the owner and operator of his own lab brand. The focus on quality and personal service paid off and continues today.
Today, Alfodontics is a contemporary, digitally-enabled orthodontic lab. They accept plaster casts and scans and produce a complete range of appliances for all indications across removable, fixed and functional appliances.
The quality and care that Alf brings to his work is centred on a focus on the patient. Alf continued: "We make a wide range of Orthodontic appliances for our Orthodontic clients. These are our customers, and we work very hard to give them the quality and service that’s needed to contribute to their business health. But when we're making appliances, we concentrate on the patient".
"We imagine how the device works and how it fits and feels for them. We must ensure that children feel a special connection with their appliance by using colour and motifs and making sure it's comfortable to wear".
We know from experience that our focus on patient care is successful because when it all boils down, our clients want happy patients. Their business efficiency and patient satisfaction are aided by the quality, reliability and patient compliance we contribute to. Doctors don't have time to waste, so we ensure their time isn't wasted".
"Furthermore, I believe that everything that leaves our lab is not only a product of Alfodontics, it's a reflection on my work. It has to be right. Every little piece of care we apply to our work improves patients' lives, helps our clients, and, I believe, helps us too".
Alf first came across Dentaurum at Westmead Dental Hospital and quickly grew attached to the quality and consistency of every material, product, tool and machine.
"Today, almost everything we use at Alfodontics comes from Dentaurum. Their products and the company never let us down. You know what they say about German quality, and that's definitely been our experience with Dentaurum".
"From wires, screws and bands, to acrylics and separating medium, to our laser welder. We've had the laser welder for over ten years and only had one minor issue. It's remarkable.
"Almost everything is always in stock and delivered to us the next day, sometimes even the same day!
"Plus, from day one, we've been made to feel special, like part of a family. We have excellent relationships with the Dentaurum team and know they'll always take extra steps to help us whenever needed".