Meet Our Team

After an initial interest in science at the University of Otago, completing a degree and post graduate diploma in physiology, I chose a career path in dentistry entering the Otago School of Dentistry in 1987.

I enjoy all aspects of General Dentistry; routine treatment, cosmetic treatment and the restoration of gaps with implant retained crowns and bridges. I also provide IV sedation for both surgical removal of wisdom teeth as well as for treating anxious patients.

I was a facilitator for the Graduate Development Programme for seven years, assisting newly qualified dentists in the region, as well as having an active role on the committee of the Wellington Branch of the New Zealand Dental Association. Currently I remain a member of this local branch.

Life cannot be only about my career, my wife with three children and three loyal dog’s (if only for food and a belly scratch) are a priority. Socially cooking for friends and family, together with providing cocktails is time well spent. To balance this lifestyle, I need to be a regular at the gym, but my sport of choice is target shooting. At present I am on the executive of the Wellington Smallbore Rifle Association, while I am the Club Captain for our Wellington Central Club. On that note I can state we are always keen to support and encourage newcomers and past shooters alike.

Ailsa graduated from The University of Otago, School of Dentistry in 1989. Since then, Ailsa has worked in general practice both here and in the United Kingdom. She lived and worked in London for seven years in a Kiwi owned and operated practice. Since returning to New Zealand, Ailsa has worked at Symes de Silva and Associates. She practises all aspects of restorative dentistry and has a keen interest in endodontics (root canal treatment). Ailsa is an active member of a Wellington-based study group and the Wellington branch of the New Zealand Dental Association.

Outside of work, Ailsa is happily married and has three amazing children. In her limited spare time, she enjoys a gym routine, cooking European and Asian cuisine, eating and drinking with family and friends, along with walking her Westie’s.

Cara's dental career began in Belfast, Northern Ireland, where she graduated from Queens University Belfast with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery. Cara then moved and worked in Newcastle Upon Tyne, England to complete her foundational training, where she gained valuable experience working for NHS England. Cara moved home to Northern Ireland where she worked in general practice for a few years.

Cara has a range of experience and skills throughout all aspects of general NHS and private dentistry. She decided to further her life experience and travels, so relocated to Wellington, NZ to become part of the wonderful team of Lumino Symes de Silva. Cara considers herself an outgoing individual and enjoys spending time with her friends and family, over a nice meal and a nice glass of wine. She enjoys playing and watching sports, in particular Gaelic football, the national sport of Ireland. In her free time she enjoys cooking new dishes, relaxing with a movie and going for scenic walks

Originally from Fiji, I moved to New Zealand in 2007 to pursue further education. I initially completed a Bachelor of Science in Anatomy and Structural Biology from the University of Otago. I later graduated with a Bachelor of Oral Health in 2013. In my final year I also received the Oral Health Research Award.

After working for four years, providing funded dental care for adolescents, as well as working as a hygienist privately, I joined Symes De Silva & Associates in 2018. My primary focus is prevention and maintenance of gum disease through patient education and empowerment. I strongly believe in care that is holistic and tailored to the individual patient. There is nothing more rewarding than helping people feel more comfortable and confident with their smiles.

Outside of work, I love experiencing Wellington’s food culture, cooking and going for walks with my husband and lovely dog Willow.