Dr Talha Gul is changing the look, and the feel, of local dentistry with his boutique practice in leafy Greenhithe. He spoke to Channel about his journey into the profession and what he’s doing differently…
How long have you been a dentist in Greenhithe?
Eight years ago, I started working at this practice part-time as a fresh dentistry graduate, after being offered the job while still studying at the University of Otago. About six months into the job, I was offered shares in the business by my then boss. In January 2021, I took over the business. I always had dreams of owning a family dental practice in a close-knit, family-orientated community. I’m really pleased to have made that happen.
What do you enjoy most about running your own dental practice?
I love the area, the people, the work… Having been a dentist here for over eight years now, I have got to know our local patients really well. I’ve seen plenty of children grow up! It’s really satisfying to have these long-standing relationships with patients and to help them along the way.
How did you decide to get into the profession?
My passion for dentistry began as a child of about seven or eight, when I broke one of my front teeth. I needed three years of root canal treatments. This came, however, after one dentist said that he should take the tooth out. My parents questioned this and got a second opinion, thankfully. It was a daunting process, but because of the care I received from the dentist we chose, I actually looked forward to going to see her. She really made a difference to my experience of dentists as a child. I decided I wanted to be a dentist and have this kind of impact too.
Do you have any specialist areas of interest in dentistry?
I offer every dental service here and I love serving the needs of all our patients, but my own specialist interest is in cosmetic composite veneers. These are different to standard implants and veneers in that they’re non-invasive. I’ve been trained by some of the leading US doctors in this field – this treatment has been around a lot longer over there – as well as the leading dentist in this field in Brazil. I’ve adapted what I have learned to make a style of my own, using my love of art – the lines, the colours, the textures, the symmetry. I really enjoy the results I can offer my patients.
Why did you choose to create the look and feel of your practice?
My mum is an artist and I always loved art; I used to draw comics as a kid. Drawing is still a way I like to switch off, as well as going to the gym, playing indoor cricket and squash! So, when it came to designing the practice, art was always going to be an important feature. I chose works by Kiwi artist Lucy G, whose art I love.
Patients say it doesn’t feel like your average dental practice when you walk in, which I love. It’s warm and colourful, which I feel puts patients at ease as well as being aesthetically pleasing. I even tried to get rid of the sterile dental practice smell, but unfortunately that can’t be avoided!
How do you like to give back through your work?
I carried out a month of volunteer dentistry work in Cambodia at a school for deaf and blind children and have provided dental treatment to over 220 people in Rarotonga during a four-week period over there. Both were rewarding experiences of giving back.
I also like to give back, locally, and I always make it my aim to provide one free treatment per week. This could be an additional service I surprise someone with free charge, just as a thank you. There is so much talk about the price of dentistry and everyday costs and I can help by reducing this a little for people when they put their trust in me for their dental services.
Why should North Shore locals switch to Greenhithe Dental Boutique?
Everyone hates the unknown! I know how daunting and potentially expensive it can be to go to the dentist, so I’d like to help Channel readers out by offering a FREE CHECK-UP AND CLEAN for new patients who book during October. Just mention Channel when booking your appointment. You’ll get an honest opinion – some say we’re too honest! – and quality dentistry you can trust, in a welcoming, stylish environment with warm communication and service. Plus, if you’re a sports fan like me, you can even watch your favourite live sport while you’re receiving your treatment!
6/8 Greenhithe Road, Greenhithe
09 413 5109
greenhithedental.co.nz
