Dr Desmond Ong was born in Nambour and attended school on the Sunshine Coast. Des graduated as a Dentist (BDSc) with First Class Honours from the University of Queensland in 2000. Des successfully completed a Masters degree in Orthodontics (MDSc) at the University of Queensland in 2005 and also completed examinations to become a Member of the Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh in the Discipline of Orthodontics (m Ortho RCS Ed). Des is also a member of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons in the Special Field of Orthodontics (MRACDS Ortho).

Upon graduation, Des commenced work in a specialist orthodontic practice on the Gold Coast. Des has also held the position of Senior Lecturer in Orthodontics at the University of Queensland Dental School since 2006 and has been the Course Coordinator and Examiner for Orthodontics in the Undergraduate Dental Program. Des is also a Specialists Supervisor and Examiner of the Postgraduate Orthodontic Program which trains new orthodontists. Despite relocating to Townsville, Des plans to continue his association with the University of Queensland as an Adjunct Senior Lecturer in Orthodontics.

Des has a deep passion for teaching and orthodontic education. Des has published several orthodontic articles and also delivers numerous Continuing Education Programs in Orthodontics at the University of Queensland.

Des has a passion for all types of sport, especially rugby league, soccer and AFL. Des is an avid supporter of the Brisbane Broncos and North Queensland Cowboys, New Zealand Warriors, Manchester United and the Hawthorn Hawks. Des has played competitive soccer for 25 years and was a former representative gymnast. Des enjoys spending time with his wife Amanda, their new baby Alisha and their two dogs.