Dr Dave Richards, BSC (hons), BDS

Founder and Dental Surgeon, Natural Smile

Minimally invasive dentistry, digital dentistry

Formerly a Paratrooper, Dave left the British Army in 2004 to complete a Bachelor of Biomedical Science, followed by a Bachelor of Dental Surgery at Otago University.

Dave has practiced minimally invasive dentistry since graduation, aiming to preserve as much of the original tooth as possible using treatments that replicate natural teeth. He belongs to the New Zealand Dental Association, the New Zealand Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Biomimetics Society, and the Endodontics Society. He has recently become the national trainer in digital dentistry for CEREC.

Passionate about expanding his knowledge, Dave loves to attend international conferences and share what he has learned with his patients, using his skills to provide them with longer lasting treatments.

In Dave’s spare time, he likes to go fishing, cook for his wife, and has an interest in gardening and general DIY.

Dr Ernie Park, General and Cosmetic Dentistry BDS (hons)

Dental Surgeon, Natural Smile

General dentistry, minimally invasive dentistry

Ernie graduated from Otago University in 2014 with first class honours in a Bachelor of Dental Surgery. He enjoys practicing a wide range of general dentistry, focusing on a modern and minimally invasive approach. He prides himself on his gentle, patient-oriented style and enjoys working with patients to achieve optimal solutions.

Ernie belongs to the New Zealand Dental Association and the New Zealand Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, where he regularly attends courses to keep his knowledge up-to-date.

In his spare time, Ernie is a keen drummer. He enjoys spending time with his wife and dog at beaches and cafes.

Lisa

Dental Assistant

Putting patients at ease

Lisa’s caring, compassionate nature comes from her great enjoyment of working with people. She loves to see a patient’s reaction and boosted confidence when their smile is improved.

In over twenty years of working in the dental industry, Lisa has seen it evolve for the better. The changes in treatment technology have led to better treatment options, superior outcomes, and more comfortable experiences for her patients, and she is fascinated to witness the continual changes and enormous improvements.

Jodie

Practice Manager

Customer support and administration

Jodie has over 15 years’ background within the dental industry and ensures that Natural Smile runs smoothly and provides support to patients receiving dental treatment. She’s the first point of contact for everyone who comes to see us, and people love her kind, approachable nature.

Jodie’s favourite part of her job is her relationships with our patients and her colleagues. Jodie loves getting to know everyone as individuals and seeing the confidence that comes from a transformed smile. She also enjoys working alongside the talented team that educates the community on the importance of oral health and regular dental check-ups to help prevent future damage.

Claire

Dental Hygienist

Oral health care

Welcome to Claire’s corner of dental care! Claire, an experienced Oral Health Therapist who graduated in 2011, extends a warm welcome. Her passion lies not only in maintaining oral health but also in ensuring her patients feel at ease throughout their dental experience. With every visit, her goal is to leave patients not only with a healthier smile but also a happier one.

Beyond the dental chair, you'll find Claire embracing the outdoors, staying active through sports, and exploring the art of upcycling furniture. She believes in living a balanced life, where caring for herself extends beyond dental hygiene to encompass holistic well-being.

Join her in prioritising your oral health journey, where comfort and care are always at the forefront. Embark on your path to brighter, healthier smiles with Claire.

Madison

Oral Health Therapist

Oral health care

Madison is a dedicated Oral Health Therapist and graduate of Auckland University of Technology. She is passionate about promoting healthy smiles and creating a calm, welcoming environment for every patient, ensuring each visit leaves patients feeling confident and comfortable with their oral health journey.

Madison's commitment extends beyond clinical care to building genuine relationships with her patients. She takes pride in her gentle, patient-oriented approach and enjoys seeing the positive impact that good oral health has on her patients' overall confidence and wellbeing.

When she's not in the clinic, Madison enjoys staying active outdoors, playing sports, and spending quality time with her cat, Nala.