Nothing but the tooth

About Dr Celia Burns, BDS (Bristol, UK)

My first love isn’t teeth; it’s people. It’s the best feeling in the world to be able to help an anxious patient to build their confidence. And as well as helping patients to achieve a healthy smile for life, I am a full member of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentists.  I get a real thrill from doing the minimum cosmetic treatment to achieve the maximum cosmetic improvement.

I am an avid reader and have been in a book group for 15 years, but I also like to get outside; I have an allotment which I have not yet got the hang of – we tend to get large gluts at various points. The strawberries seem to get eaten ok, but I have been known to resort to making courgette cake and pickling my runner beans.

About Dr Hassan Kamal, BDS (Birmingham, UK)

My first priority is putting patients at ease, especially if they feel anxious or haven’t been to a dentist for a while. Sometimes I provide sedation which helps people relax during treatment, and I get great satisfaction from relieving patients’ pain and helping them to keep teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted. I’ve been fortunate to gain a wealth of experience in all aspects of general dentistry including being an accredited and certified Invisalign provider (for invisible braces). I have a keen interest in cosmetic dentistry, working with patients to create the beautiful smiles they’ve always wanted.

My most recent postgraduate training is in Endodontology (Root fillings!) at the University of Chester, where I am completing a Masters degree.

In my spare time, I enjoy travelling and experiencing different cultures and ways of life. My most recent excursions include Malaysia, Thailand and the Middle East. Cars are my passion – there’s nothing like the joy of driving on the windy roads of the beautiful countryside on a bright summer’s day. In another life, I think I would have been a car reviewer (more Chris Harris than Evans!) But more than anything, I love to spend time with family and friends. I am a father to two beautiful little boys who are the apple of my eye. And despite the lack of sleep, I can’t get enough of the little munchkins!

About Dr Gursharn Attwal, BDS(Bham), MJDF(RCS), MSc Endodontics (Chester)

I always strive to provide the highest quality care and experience for my patients, using a holistic approach to treatment. I continually look to expand my skills and knowledge by attending courses, such as in restorative and aesthetic dentistry.

I have a special interest in Endodontics (root canal treatment). I have completed training to diploma level and I have a Masters degree in Endodontics from the University of Chester.

I have worked as an Educational Supervisor for newly qualified dentists, helping them in the early stages of their careers and adapting from university to dental practice life.

Outside of work, I like to keep active and enjoy a good session at the gym! I am an avid football fan and enjoy following Man United (but don’t hold that against me!). Also, I love to travel and visit new places around the world to experience different cultures.

About Dr Sonal Patel, BDS (London)

What brings me the most satisfaction is seeing my patients smile with confidence, whether it be through a full smile makeover, or subtle aesthetic enhancements. I work with you to achieve your vision, and thus treatment with me is always a dialogue.

I qualified in 2003 and I haven’t stopped learning since! I am a full member of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and have trained extensively to perfect my skills. I offer minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry in the form of composite restorations, composite bonding, teeth whitening, and Invisalign. I am also completing a post graduate diploma in facial aesthetics and have a passion for skincare.

Out of work I love spending time with my daughter and son. I enjoy good food and good wine, especially shared with others. I love languages, a spot of interior design, and surprisingly lockdown brought out the gardener in me. Most of all, I love to laugh.

About Dr Iqra Rafiq, BDS (Glasgow), MFDS(RCS) (Glasgow)

My aim is to craft radiant, healthy smiles for patients of all ages.

I firmly believe that every patient deserves personalised care and a comprehensive, bespoke treatment plan.

We learn by listening, so I listen carefully to each patient’s concerns, understanding their goals, and addressing their queries in a calm and comfortable environment. This enables me to deliver the high quality dental care I am committed to providing.

My professional journey began with my graduation from the University of Glasgow, after which I acquired the postgraduate distinction of MFDS from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. During this period, I also gained proficiency in providing intravenous sedation. I am an accredited Invisalign provider and I take pride in my most recent accomplishment: completing an intensive one-year postgraduate course in Cosmetic Dentistry and Aesthetic Restorative Dentistry, based in London.

I adore my profession, and I love taking opportunities for continued lifelong allowing me to refine my expertise and proficiency.

Originally hailing from Glasgow, I frequently travel back to my hometown to visit family and immerse myself in the exquisite Scottish scenery. In my leisure time, I enjoy delving into health and well-being podcasts, losing myself in a captivating book, and engaging in a love-hate relationship with HIIT classes!

Qualifications and Experience

• INVISALIGN

Iqra is an accredited comprehensive Invisalign provider which enables her to address a wide range of concerns with a series of custom-made clear aligners that gradually shift the teeth into the desired position. She utilises advanced dental technology to create precise treatment plans for patients who desire a revolutionary alternative to traditional braces.

• INTRAVENOUS SEDATION

Iqra completed her Intravenous Sedation training in 2018 with NHS Education for Scotland (NES). She understands that dental anxiety can be a significant barrier for many individuals when it comes to receiving the dental care they need and intravenous sedation is a safe and effective method that helps patients relax and feel at ease during their treatment. She continues to attend courses and training to keep up to date with the latest developments and prioritises patient safety and comfort above all else.

• COSMETIC DENTISTRY & AESTHETIC RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY

Iqra completed a one-year postgraduate training course in Cosmetic Dentistry & Aesthetic Restorative Dentistry with Advanced Dental Seminars. She was taught by renowned dentist Dr Christopher Orr and gained a breadth of knowledge in various procedures focusing on minimally invasive dentistry such as smile design, composite bonding, crowns, veneers and tooth whitening.

About Dr Alex Chan, BDS (hons) MFDS (Edin)

I am passionate about providing health-centred dentistry and pride myself on my communication skills to put my patients at ease. Yes, I want my patients to enjoy their visit to the dentist!

My overall goal is to ensure that my patients feel comfortable and confident under my care and look forward to their recall appointments. I really appreciate feedback to continue to develop and improve my personal and clinical skills and I am excited for the new challenges that continued professional development offers. It goes without saying that I always aim to provide the highest standard of care.

In my spare time I love running, badminton and skiing but I am spending most of my time planning my wedding!

About Dr Nazar Syed, BDS (hons) MFDSRCPS (Glas) PGCMedEd

About Alia Hasbullah, BSc Dental Hygiene and Therapy (Birmingham,UK)

I knew I didn’t want to have an office job so I decided on a career in dentistry as it would allow me to be in a caring profession whilst developing a wide range of skills. It’s a cliché, but every day is different! I work here on Saturday mornings, and the rest of my week is split between community dental services and the dental hospital. I get to see a wide range of patients such as those who have dental phobias, special needs and are medically compromised. I am also qualified in administering inhalation sedation.

I grew up near Manchester but have developed a soft spot for Birmingham over the years. I still love visiting up North to see family and spend time in the beautiful surroundings of the Peak District. When I’m not at work you’ll probably find me on a tennis court – whether it be sunshine, wind, rain and even snow on occasion! I also enjoy travelling and seeing new places around the UK and when I get a chance I like to venture further afield; my latest trip was to Japan.

About Tracey Hannon, Diploma in Dental Hygiene and Therapy (Kings College London, UK)

Before qualifying as a Dental Hygienist and Therapist in 2008 I was a Dental Nurse for around 13 years.  I have worked in a range of different environments, including specialist practice, and I am particularly interested in helping patients with advanced gum disease – this affects the supporting structures of the tooth so can result in tooth loss if not properly managed.

I love animals, and I have two cats at home who take up a lot of my time – especially when one goes AWOL for two days as he did recently. My other hobby is healthy eating. I spend a lot of time cooking mainly vegetarian and vegan food. It is fascinating finding out new things about food and its effect on general health. I try to keep fit and active – I enjoy Salsa dancing and have recently started Aeriel Silk Classes (google it – it’s not about how to wash delicate fabrics).

About Marium Kalsoom, BSc (DHT)