At Lumino, we're firm believers in building strong partnerships with our clinicians, who play a critical role in the success of our vision.

The role of a Clinical Advisory Panel is to extend country specific clinical feedback which has been provided by the Clinical Advisory Team to further assist the Executive leadership team (ELT), and support office senior leadership teams (SLT).

CAP members assist Abano through:

  • being the “customer advocate” for the clinician network by providing feedback on the facilities and services provided by Abano to clinicians;
  • providing input on new technologies, materials, techniques, and trends within the industry which Abano may procure as part of its service to clinicians and practices across the network;
  • sharing information obtained through their clinical work which can be used for the benefit of other clinicians conducting their business from Abano’s facilities;
  • providing feedback on clinical policies and procedures developed by the clinical advisory function of the SMT, including feedback on how those policies and procedures can practically be implemented in the network;
  • setting the example for other clinicians by delivering high quality dental services to their patients;
  • assisting Abano in emphasising the importance of health and safety in practices.

CAP members are encouraged to attend events arranged by Abano (eg, dental conferences, networking events etc). These events provide an opportunity for CAP members to meet clinicians from the Abano network and obtain their feedback on the level and quality of services provided by Abano and assist CAP members in providing the input referred to above.

The CAP is composed of registered oral health practitioners (which may include dentists, hygienists, oral health therapists) utilising the facilities and services of the Abano network of dental practices in Australia and/or New Zealand. 

Clinical Leadership Team

Dr Sophia Armstrong

Clinical Advisor

Sophia graduated with a BDS from the University of Otago in 1992. For twelve years post-graduation, she owned and worked in private dental practices in the Auckland region.

Sophia brings a wide range of clinical understanding and delivery of dental care. In 2004 she commenced work as the inaugural Continuing Professional Development Manager for the New Zealand Dental Association. In this role she was involved in working with new dental graduates, assisting them in their transition from student to working professional. She was also head of training for the Dental Assistants undertaking the NZDA Dental Assistants programme. Working in conjunction with the dental industry, Sophia was responsible for continuing education both for NZDA lecture programmes and for sections of the NZDA Conferences. She was also one of the NZDA frontline liaison personnel for consumer complaints.

Before commencing work for Abano, Sophia worked as a sales consultant for a dental implant company. In this role she worked with dental specialists, general dentists and dental technicians to provide comprehensive dental implant treatment. She also assisted in the undergraduate dental implant teaching programme at Otago University.

In addition to her Dental Degree, she also has a Graduate Diploma in Business Studies majoring in Human Resource Management. Sophia undertook this Diploma as she was interested in helping people to have the best working experience possible. 

Outside of work and study Sophia loves to cook, enjoys gardening, a variety of handcrafts and spending time with her family which includes a dog, Zoe.

Sophia CAB

Dr Emma Courtney

Clinical Advisor

Emma grew up in England and trained as a dentist at The University of Liverpool. She served five years as a dentist in The Royal Navy, during which time she worked in Scotland, England and Gibraltar.

Emma moved to New Zealand in 2005. Emma has a post graduate diploma from the Royal College of Surgeons of England, a Diploma in Positive Psychology and Wellbeing, and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety Management. She has worked across multiple Lumino practices, including in the role of Lead Dentist, before joining our Clinical Advisory team in 2025.

Outside dentistry Emma is keen on tramping, playing hockey and watching the odd game of rugby.

Emma C