Dr Alexys Ward
I am Alexys Ward and I am the principal dentist at The Happy Tooth. I have graduated from Sydney University with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery and since graduating I have completed over 40 additional courses in advanced dentistry.
The Hunter has always been my home. I grew up on a small farm outside Maitland and now live on a small farm outside Cessnock. As a family, we bred cattle and sometimes exhibited them at shows including Cessnock and Sydney. Outside dentistry, I am passionate about animals and gardening.
Since graduating in 2003 I have practised dentistry in both Sydney and the Hunter Valley. The city experience has allowed me to gain expertise in advanced dental techniques using the latest generation equipment and technology. I have used this experience to design and build my dream practice in Cessnock.
The Happy Tooth has been fitted out with equipment of the 21st century to give you the best possible dental care, I have sought out top class equipment and facilities. I want you to have what I would want in dental treatment- treatment that looks great, feels great and lasts as long as possible. I have always adhered to the philosophy of, ‘if you are going to do something, do it well and always give it your best’.
Dr Alexys Ward and family
Dr Alexys Ward and Adam Elbourne
Dr Heather Oesterheld
Hi, my name is Heather and I am one of the dentists here at The Happy Tooth. I have a Bachelor of Health Science and I completed my Doctor of Dental Medicine both at the University of Sydney, where I graduated in 2020.
I have lived in Sydney all my life until I started practicing with The Happy Tooth in Muswellbrook and Scone, where I thoroughly enjoyed getting a taste of the country life and the Hunter Valley wines. I subsequently moved to working with the wonderful team at Cessnock Happy Tooth at the start of 2022.
I enjoy providing quality dental care to my patients with all the modern materials and technology the Happy Tooth holds. Away from the clinic I spend my time swimming, running and hopefully one of these days, surfing as well.
I look forward to caring for you and the whole family along with our very experienced and friendly staff.
Dr Kim Larkin - Dentist
Hi, my name is Kim and I am one of the friendly Dentists here at the Happy Tooth. I grew up in the charming town of Bowen in Northern Queensland, where I left to pursue a Bachelor of Dental Surgery at James Cook University in Cairns. Now, I’m thrilled to be a part of the vibrant Hunter Valley community.
Outside of Dentistry, I find joy in exploring the great outdoors through hiking and camping. I also have a love for musicals and travelling. I enjoy discovering new places and experiencing different cultures.
I value healthy teeth, not justfor the visual appeal, but also for its positive impact on overall health. My commitment to patient care goes beyond routine check-ups, aiming to make very visit a comfortable and positive experience.
I look forward to welcoming you to our dental family.
Jon Pride – Dental Prosthetist
Hi! my name is Jon and I graduated from Randwick Tafe with and Associate Diploma in Dental Technology in 1999. After 2 years of gaining experience throughout a diverse range of cases in the field of dental technology, I furthered my studies as a dental technician by upgrading my qualifications to a Diploma in Dental Technology. In 2004 I pursued my passion further by undertaking an Advanced Diploma in Dental prosthesis, graduating in July 2006 as a registered Dental Prosthetist. In doing so I also received the ‘Phil Harris Award’ for the best student overall.
My studies continue today constantly gaining knowledge in the field of dentures and more recently implant retained dentures. In 2009 I was involved in the education of Dental Prosthetics at Randwick Tafe as the assistant teacher for implant retained dentures.
I have been working in Sydney throughout my career and am thoroughly enjoying escaping the city to work within the beautiful surroundings of the Hunter Valley, especially due to the abundance of golf courses, vineyards and exciting motorcycle rides at my fingertips.
Gemma Kennedy – Dental Therapist
Hi, my name is Gemma and I am a registered Dental Therapist who is able to assist you to care for your teeth until you turn 25. After graduating in 1982, my first job was in Cessnock and since then I have worked on the Mid North Coast, Sydney, Darwin, and remote Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory and most recently in Western Melbourne.
I am now back in Cessnock, at The Happy Tooth, living my passion, which is to assist youth and parents through their oral health care journey. I have been deeply involved in the Australian Dental and Oral Health Therapists Association for 12 years now.
In my spare time I love playing with my Grandchildren and my Samoyed dog, Marlee, as well as gardening, walking and golf. I look forward to meeting with you!
Bronwyn Coates – Dental Therapist/Hygienist
Hi, my name is Bronwyn and I am one of the dental therapist and hygienists here at The Happy Tooth. I grew up in Cessnock only to leave and follow a career in the Dental field which spans over 30+ years (yes I’m that old!)
I graduated in 2001 in Dental Therapy from the College of Dental Therapy at Westmead in Sydney and Dental Hygiene from Melbourne University in 2004.
Since then I have worked in remote locations in the Northern Rivers area in public health and multiple private general practices and specialist practices in Melbourne, Sydney and Newcastle. I have also volunteered in Vietnam with the AVVRG - Australia Vietnam Volunteers Resource Group as part of the South Australian Dental Group treating 6-12 year old children and have spent time away volunteering with Camp Quality.
I love caring for a variety of ages and managing complex behaviours and very anxious patients. I am so passionate about educating my patients as individuals and strive to help them achieve the best possible outcomes at every visit.
I enjoy living back in Cessnock and spending time with my family, my two dogs and the beautiful Hunter Valley.
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