Robert Craig

BDS Queen’s University of Belfast 1988

GDC No: 63417

Since founding Gentle Touch in 1990, Robert has focused on high-end implant cosmetic dentistry, taking a year-long course in the USA, the epicentre of cosmetic excellence.

His experience includes a 2002 Fellowship in Periodontology and a 2004 Fellowship of Implantology, both from Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Robert also spent time working with renowned clinicians, including Dr. John Besford, at his Harley Street in London, and is a member of the British Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry and the Irish Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry.

Robert is the President of the Northern Ireland branch of the Irish Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry and a member of the Association of Dental Implantology. He is also a significant contributor to dental education in Northern Ireland, offering courses alongside other renowned educators.

Outside dentistry, Robert enjoys spending time on his digger and trying to shoot clay pigeons!

Andrew Shannon

BDS Queen’s University of Belfast 2013

GDC No: 243790

Andrew graduated from Queen's with a distinction in Paediatrics and has a keen interest in all aspects of dentistry, particularly Aesthetic Dentistry and restoring and maintaining dental implants. He enjoys making patients feel at ease, focusing on providing pain-free dentistry with the use of inhalation sedation (laughing gas) for the more anxious patient.

He has completed coursework in Restorative Aesthetics and Implant Dentistry led by internationally renowned speaker Tidu Mankoo. Like Robert, he is also on the committee of the Irish Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry.

When he's not treating patients, Andrew enjoys travelling and spending time with his wife Amy and once played badminton at the National level. He is a keen runner, when he’s not running around after his two young boys, Jonah and Reuben.

Vicki

Practice Coordinator

Qual- National Certificate NEBDN 2011

GDC No: 232362

Vicki began her Gentle Touch journey in 2009 as a receptionist and over the years progressed to become our Practice CoOrdinator. Vicki qualified as a dental nurse in 2011 and went on to complete her dental radiography qualification in 2019.

Her main focus is coordinating the practice and keeping the team organised, but that doesn’t stop Vicki from being the first friendly face our patients see. She enjoys getting to know each patient and always goes the extra mile- whether it’s painting their nails or chatting over a cup of tea- to make sure they have a wonderful and life changing experience.

Outside work, Vicki has a keen interest in pipe bands and has played the tenor drum for 19 years at top level. Now she spends her time away from work with her husband Colin and charming baby boy Luca.

“Seeing the positive difference high-quality dentistry makes to our patients lives is why I do my job!” - Vicki

Lesley

Implant Co-Ordinator/Lead Dental Nurse

Qual- National Certificate NEBDN 2011

GDC No: 217493

Lesley joined the Gentle Touch team in 2013 and as well as being Roberts nurse is also our practice Lead Nurse. After qualifying as a dental nurse in 2011 Lesley went on to complete her qualification in implant nursing, conscious sedation and dental radiography.

As lead nurse, her top priority is to ensure all patients are looked after according to the high standards set by our practice. She loves chatting and getting to know each of her patients and helping her more nervous clients overcome their fear of the dentist. She’s also committed to furthering her knowledge in all areas of dentistry. All this whilst making sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes too!

In her spare time Lesley enjoys exerecising, walking her dogs and spedning time with her precious baby boy Robbie and her fiance.

Siobhan

Dental Nurse / Receptionist

National Certificate NEBDN 2001

GDC No: 236881

Siobhan began her career in dentistry in Grafton street in 1998 and soon qualified as a dental nurse from the Dublin Dental school in 2001 before joining the Gentle Touch team in 2017.

By continuously taking professional development courses, she is always up to date on current treatments which helps ensure she can deliver the highest level of care to every patient.

Siobhan prides herself on her ability to build strong relationships with her patients and her friendly, chatty personality is very much appreciated by our patients- they seem to always be having a laugh!

When she’s not entertaining patients, Siobhan is kept on her toes by her two beautiful children, Ronan and Aoife, and enjoys going to the gym, being out with friends and spending time with her family.

Michelle

Dental Nurse

Qualified 2006

GDC No: 132734

Michelle has been fortunate to work with so many great dentists throughout the years, learning something new from them all, adding to her skills and knowledge. Michelle's approach to dentistry provides a calm, professional atmosphere in the surgery for the dentist and the patient.

Always giving 100% and confident in her role allows Michelle to be an efficient nurse while loving her job.

Outside of work Michelle a busy mum to her beautiful little daughter Willow.

"I am so happy to now be part of The Gentle Touch team and have the opportunity to be involved in such high quality dentistry."

SHAUNA

Dental Nurse / Receptionist

National Certificate NEBDN 2002

GDC No: 134377

Shauna joined Gentle Touch in 2021 with a wealth of experience since qualifying in 2002. Shauna has worked in all aspects of dentistry, and we were so excited when we were able to welcome her to the team.

Shauna doesn't just chat to patients; she invests herself into getting to know each person she meets. She loves being part of the patient journey, giving everyone the reassurance and comfort, they need.

When Shauna isn't in work, she spends her time surrounded by her husband, two daughters and dogs.

AYESHA

Oral Health Co-Ordinator/Dental Nurse

National Certificate NEBDN 2016

GDC No: 265920

Ayesha joined Gentle Touch in 2022 with a number of years experience in general and complex dental nursing.

Ayesha completed a qualification in Oral Health Education in 2018 and likes to use this qualification in practice and outside of the practice in schools and preschools. She is highly skilled and is always undertaking training and study to develop her skillset. Currently Ayesha is studying to complete her dental radiography qualification.

Ayesha enjoys seeing the reaction of a patient when they see their new smile for the first time and feels just as excited and happy as the patient does

When Ayesha hasn't her hands full at Gentle Touch, she is kept busy at home, looking after her husband, 2 children and 2 dogs.