Kay Franks

Dr. Kay Franks is an Honorary Lecturer in Oral Health at the University of Newcastle's School of Health Sciences. A registered oral health therapist with extensive clinical and managerial experience, she completed her PhD in 2019 focusing on nutrition education in preventive oral healthcare. She has worked across rural, remote, and metropolitan NSW, advocating for underserved populations and leading professional associations.

Education:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Oral Health, University of Newcastle
• Master of Educational Studies, University of Newcastle
• Graduate Certificate in Health Psychology, Curtin University
• Bachelor of Oral Health, University of Newcastle
• Diploma of Business (Frontline Management), NSW Health

Research Interests: Her work centers on preventive oral health models, dietary education integration in curricula, aged care interventions (Senior Smiles program), indigenous oral health, and international service-learning programs. She pioneered student placements in Cambodia, enhancing clinical competency in resource-limited settings.

Publications: Her 29 publications (9 journal articles, 20 conference outputs) consistently address preventive oral healthcare, nutrition education, geriatric dentistry, and innovative pedagogical methods. Recent works explore cardiometabolic health links and diabetic patient education.

Awards:

• Two First Prizes for conference posters (Singapore 2017, Belfast 2017)
• Life Membership, Dental and Oral Health Therapists Association NSW (2007)
• Aboriginal Oral Health Award (2007)
• Services to Dental Therapy (2006)

Supervision & Grants: Currently supervises 4 postgraduate students researching orthodontic curriculum redesign, refugee oral health, and diabetic patient education. Secured $12,926 in grants for the Senior Smiles program and PhD completion support.

Professional Engagement: Member of Australian Dental Council assessors pool, Dental Council of NSW assessment committee, and leads the Healthy Kids Cambodia project providing dental care to children in Phnom Penh.