Dr Terry named Young Dentist of the Year

Dr Yi Pu, known locally as Dr Terry from Platypus Dental, has been named Australian Young Dentist of the Year at the 2025 Australian Dentistry Awards.

Under his leadership, Platypus Dental was also recognised as a finalist for New Practice of the Year at the same national awards.

Dr Terry said the recognition was humbling and reflected more than just individual achievement.

“I’m very grateful to receive the award,” he said.

“To me, it represents that what we are doing here as a purpose-driven and ethical practice for the community is being recognised at a national level.”

He said the award affirmed the team’s vision of lifting standards and delivering care that could set a benchmark for the profession.

“We’re hoping to become a gold standard for others in the industry to look at,” he said.

After graduating from the University of Queensland, Dr Terry was told the “golden age of dentistry” was over, with increasing corporatisation changing the landscape of the industry.

Rather than accept that view, he chose a different path.

“I defy that a little bit. I believe as long as you are yourself and shape the culture of your team, patients who recognise what you do will follow you.”

He said building a strong team culture and focusing on ethical, patient-centred care had been central to the success of Platypus Dental.

For the local community, the national recognition is a sign that high-quality, independent care continues to thrive close to home.