In pursuit of excellence

Winning the Practice of the Year 2024 at the Private Dentistry Awards was a proud moment for my team and me. It recognised years of hard work and reinforced the principles that have shaped my journey. But it was also a reminder of why I created Private Dental Mentor (PDM): to share the knowledge and experiences that have helped me overcome challenges and achieve success. Here, I’d like to inspire you with my story and show how PDM can help transform your career.

The Early Days: A Blend of Artistry and Science

I graduated from Bristol Dental Hospital in 2008, drawn to dentistry for its unique combination of science and artistry. Initially torn between medicine and dentistry, I chose the latter because it offered greater flexibility and room for creativity. Joining the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD) opened my eyes to what was possible in cosmetic and aesthetic work, transforming dentistry from a job into a craft.

This passion for blending technical precision with artistic flair became the foundation of my career. Dentistry wasn’t just about treating teeth—it was about making a difference in people’s lives and constantly pushing myself to refine my skills.

Taking the Leap: Black Swan Dental Spa

In 2013, I was offered the chance to take over Black Swan Dental Spa. The practice was struggling financially, and at 27, I lacked both the funds and business experience. But I saw its potential. With guidance from my mentors and support from my family, I took a leap of faith. Rebranding and refurbishing the practice became my first priorities. I wanted to create a space that felt luxurious, welcoming, and innovative—a place where patients could trust they were receiving the best care.

The journey was far from easy. Managing cash flow, learning to delegate and balancing clinical work with business demands were constant challenges. But each obstacle taught me invaluable lessons, from understanding the importance of mentorship to embracing failure as a stepping stone for growth. These are the lessons I now pass on through PDM.

Mentorship has been a cornerstone of my success. Early in my career, shadowing Neil Gerrard introduced me to high-end cosmetic dentistry, while business mentorship from Alun Rees helped me navigate the complexities of practice ownership. Clinical training with experts like Chris Orr and Frank Spear further shaped my skills and broadened my vision for what dentistry could achieve.

These mentors didn’t just teach me techniques; they inspired me to think bigger and aim higher. Through PDM, I strive to provide the same inspiration and guidance to others, helping dentists develop not just their clinical expertise but also their confidence and vision.

Overcoming Challenges

Every success story is filled with challenges, and mine is no different. From learning to manage a growing team to navigating financial hurdles, I’ve faced my share of trials. One of the most significant lessons was realising I couldn’t do everything myself. Delegation and trust in my team became essential.

On the clinical side, the pursuit of perfection is both a challenge and a motivator. Dentistry is a field of constant learning, and the more you learn, the more you realise there’s still so much to master. This drive for continuous improvement led me to create PDM as a resource for dentists who want to fast-track their growth while avoiding the pitfalls I encountered.

Why Join Private Dental Mentor?

PDM isn’t just a course—it’s a community. It’s designed to help you navigate the complexities of modern dentistry, from mastering core skills to understanding the business side of running a practice. Whether you’re a young dentist starting out or a seasoned professional looking to refine your craft, PDM provides tailored guidance to help you succeed.

You can expect real-world lessons and learn from my experiences, including the successes and mistakes that have shaped my career. There is tailored and personalised guidance to address your unique challenges and goals. The courses offer comprehensive training where you can enhance your skills in areas such as cosmetic and restorative dentistry, patient communication and business management. There is a genuine sense of community, and you’ll have the opportunity to join a network of like-minded dentists dedicated to excellence and growth, and potentially cultivate beneficial relationships with your peers.

Your Path to Excellence

My journey from a young, inexperienced dentist to the owner of an award-winning practice has been challenging but incredibly rewarding. Along the way, I’ve learned that success isn’t just about technical skills—it’s about vision, perseverance and the willingness to take risks. Through PDM, I want to help you unlock your potential and achieve your own version of excellence.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, I invite you to join Private Dental Mentor. Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities and build a future you’ll be proud of. Click here to get in touch.