Philip Burns

Dentist and Managing partner.
GDC no. 77961
BDS (QUB) 2000, Dip Imp Dent RCS (Eng)

I am married to the long-suffering Emma and have been blessed with three kids Catelyn, Sophie and Harry. Most of my time spent outside work is as a part-time taxi driver for my children, although I do try to still get time to play rugby, golf and run as may marathons as my aging body will allow.

I work with a small team within the larger team at Monkstown delivering dental implant and cosmetic dentistry mostly. Lyndsay, Hannah and Emma keep me happy and under control most days of the week and I am very lucky to have such top class support.

It’s a privilege for us to be so involved in people’s lives and we are constantly amazed at the difference we can see in our patient’s confidence, positivity and personality after we help them achieve the smile they have always wanted. We love to really get to know our patients and understand what they want and need.

Katie Gordon

Dentist
GDC no. 103827

I graduated from Queens University in 2006 and have worked in general practice ever since, starting at Monkstown Dental as an associate in 2007 and becoming a partner in 2011.

I enjoy the variety of general dentistry and in particular I have a keen interest in facial aesthetics as I love being able to help people feel more confident in their appearance.

One of the most rewarding times of my career was when I travelled to Ethiopia as part of a team to provide much needed dental care for children aged 4-18, an experience I will never forget and hopefully one that I will get the opportunity to do again in the future.

When I’m not working I love to spend time with my husband and two children. I also like keeping fit, cooking and binge watching box sets with my husband!

Christine Gregg

Dentist
GDC no. 103829

I graduated from Queens University Belfast in 2006 with honours, receiving the Marshall Swan medal for most distinguished graduate and the GDC Prize for Professionalism.

I spent a few years working in Scotland and Australia before settling back home in Northern Ireland. I have been at Monkstown Dental for 9 years, becoming a partner in 2016.

I have a keen interest in orthodontics and have completed post graduate studies to further my skills in this area at the University of Warwick.

I have a daughter, Isla, who takes up the majority of my ‘non-dental’ time!

Jonny Todd

Associate Dentist
GDC no. 77729

I qualified from the Leeds Dental Institute in 2000 and subsequently obtained membership of the joint dental faculties at the Royal College of Surgeons. I undertook postgraduate training in Forensic Dentistry at Cardiff University in 2006 and spent valuable time working in the Oral Surgery Department of Frenchay Hospital, Bristol.

After travelling extensively to work and learn from some of the leading figures in dentistry today, I am now glad to be home and plan to settle down for the long term, my overall philosophy is to treat my patients as I would want myself or any member of my family to be treated, using modern materials, techniques and equipment to preserve their teeth for life.

Julia Nicholl

Associate Dentist
GDC no. 227292

I graduated from Queens University Belfast in 2012 and have been working as part of the team at Monkstown Dental since July 2016. I enjoy all aspects of my job and seeing other people’s confidence increasing when they get the smile they’ve always wanted is most rewarding.

I am currently exploring avenues for further training as part of my professional development to keep up to date with the latest techniques in dentistry.

Outside work I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and going to the gym.

Ciara Morgan

Associate Dentist.
GDC no. 191056

I graduated with distinction from Queens University Belfast in 2010 and subsequently achieved MFDS (UK) qualification in 2012.

I gained experience working in the hospital setting but prefer general practice for the opportunity to get to know patients and their families. I joined the team at Monkstown in 2016 and have benefited from the opportunity to work with a friendly, supportive staff in a modern, well equipped practice. I enjoy all aspects of my work, particularly cosmetic dentistry. I’m currently about to undertake an extensive cosmetic and restorative course in London.

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my husband, family and friends. Happiness for me is travelling any chance I can get, listening to live music and a nice meal!

Emma Gordon

Associate Dentist.
GDC no. 77965

I graduated from Queens University Belfast in 2000, completed a training year in Omagh and started my first job in general prac tice in Glengormley in 2001. After 14 years there I joined Monkstown Dental in 2015 and have enjoyed being part of a large, busy and very modern practice, with several specialist dentists.

I enjoy providing a wide range of general dentistry but particularly helping patients to improve their smiles and feel more confident.

I’m married to Philip and have three children who normally keep me busy. In my spare time I like tokeep fit, cook for family and friends and eat out.

Emma Gordon

Associate Dentist.
GDC no. 77965

I graduated from Queens University Belfast in 2000, completed a training year in Omagh and started my first job in general prac tice in Glengormley in 2001. After 14 years there I joined Monkstown Dental in 2015 and have enjoyed being part of a large, busy and very modern practice, with several specialist dentists.

I enjoy providing a wide range of general dentistry but particularly helping patients to improve their smiles and feel more confident.

I’m married to Philip and have three children who normally keep me busy. In my spare time I like tokeep fit, cook for family and friends and eat out.

Emma Gordon

Associate Dentist.
GDC no. 77965

I graduated from Queens University Belfast in 2000, completed a training year in Omagh and started my first job in general prac tice in Glengormley in 2001. After 14 years there I joined Monkstown Dental in 2015 and have enjoyed being part of a large, busy and very modern practice, with several specialist dentists.

I enjoy providing a wide range of general dentistry but particularly helping patients to improve their smiles and feel more confident.

I’m married to Philip and have three children who normally keep me busy. In my spare time I like tokeep fit, cook for family and friends and eat out.

Kathy Beirne

Dentist.
GDC no. 176533

I graduated from QUB in 2009, gained MJDF in 2012 and achieved the Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Education in 2020. I thoroughly enjoy working in general practice, and love to explore new treatment techniques while investing time training young dentists. With a particular interest in oral surgery, I am looking to further my studies.

One of my career highlights has been volunteering at the Special Olympics Special Smiles clinic providing care and advice to athletes.

My husband, three kids and black lab fill my time away from Dentistry. I love family days spent running around the beach, but you can also find me at the piano, at the swimming pool or at a hockey pitch.”

Ellen McCarry

Associate Dentist.
GDC no. 271424

Laura Thompson

Hygienist
GDC no. 114186

After 6 years of dental nursing I graduated from Queens with a diploma in Dental Hygiene in 2007. I joined Monkstown Dental Practice in 2015 and enjoy treating patients to give them a fresh, white smile. I also like keeping up to date with CPD by completing online courses and attending conferences.

Outside of work I am a mum and I enjoy country living with vegetable growing, dogs and backyard hens. I also enjoy a bit of running and swimming and have completed a couple of triathlons.

Natalie Sloan

Hygienist
GDC no. 6503

Bio

Emma Harkens

Hygienist
GDC no. 286647

Bio

Jessica Van Wyk

Strategy & Operations Manager
DCP GDC no. 223961

I joined Monkstown Dental in 2015 as a Practice Manager. My role now focuses on the smooth running and growth of the practice.

I originally trained and worked as a dental nurse in other practices before moving into management roles in 2012. After several years at Monkstown, I explored new challenges in the tech and startup world, gaining valuable experience in operations, strategy, and systems building, before returning to the practice full time with fresh energy and perspective!

Emma Cochrane

Practice Co-Ordinator

I qualified as a dental nurse in 2001 and worked in a practice for 8 years when I decided to take career break to look after my two children who are now grown up. I started working in Monkstown Dental practice in 2021. I started on reception and progressed to assistant manager very quickly. I enjoy my role looking after staff and patients. It keeps me very busy.

Outside of work I enjoy walking me to dogs Po and Chino and looking after my husband and children. If I get free time I love to read and do yoga.

Angela Aidinidis

Administration Co-ordinator
GDC No: 151686

I started working in Monkstown Dental in 2018, before this I had worked as a dental nurse and receptionist for 15 years.

My job role at Monkstown Dental is primarily to work in the reception team.

I have three children who keep me very busy outside of work.

Karen Acheson

Dental Nurse.
DCP RAD GDC no. 162095

I started working in Monkstown Dental in 1994. I work part time with my roles including working with Christine, our orthodontist, and admin duties, I also work as part of the reception team.

I hold further qualifications in dental impression taking and radiography.

I am proud to be one of the longest staff members here and am proud of all the changes I have seen at the practice since I joined. The staff members at Monkstown Dental are my extended family!

I am married with three children and an array of animals. My hobbies include spending time with my friends and walking my dog. I also enjoy reading.

Natalia Montgomery

Dental Nurse.
DCP RAD SED GDC no. 195656

I have been married to my husband warren for 11 years and have 2 children, Summer, and Jude.

I have been working as a qualified Dental Nurse for 15years. I have gained qualifications in dental radiography, conscious sedation, and orthodontic nursing. I work alongside Christine and Karen as part of the orthodontic team. Not only do I get to work with my boss but also my friend. I am very passionate about my job role and get great satisfaction seeing the transformation that is made to people’s smiles and confidence along their orthodontic journey.

I am an office in the Girls Brigade and spend most of my time volunteering in church organisations with my family and friends.

“In every job that must be done there is an element of fun”- Mary Poppins.

Freda Stubbs

Dental Nurse. DCP RAD
GDC no. 253154

I’m a qualified dental nurse, I also completed a further qualification in dental radiography in 2017. I have worked alongside Mark Kirk since 2007.

The biggest loves in my life are my children Alan and Natalie and my two beautiful grandsons Finlay and Sydney. I enjoy sunshine, holidays and city breaks.

Lesa Harvey

Dental Nurse. DCP
GDC no. 253079

I have worked at Monkstown Dental since October 2007.

I work alongside dentist Julia Nicholl, but you will occasionally find me on reception!

In my spare time I enjoy keeping fit, reading and spending time with my family and friends.

Judith Whiteside

Dental Nurse. DCP.
GDC no. 252937

I am a qualified and registered dental nurse. I joined the team back in 2008 and do various jobs within the practice, you could say I’m a professional multi-tasker!

I love being in a busy and social environment.

I currently work part time, so when you can’t find me in Monkstown Dental, you’ll find me screaming like a banshee at my two boys (whom I love dearly.)

In my spare time, I love being able to have a hot cup of coffee in peace!

Sarah Ball

Dental Nurse. DCP
GDC no. 136019

I have been a qualified dental nurse now since 2002. I have been with Monkstown dental since 2011 and have loved every minute of it.

It’s great being part of a team and practice that is constantly striving to evolve.

I love being part of the patient journey and giving them reassurance and comfort.

When I am not in work I spend most of my time looking after my two beautiful children Jackson and Matilda, or at the gym lifting weights.

Hannah McLarnon

Dental Nurse. DCP
GDC no. 239209

I joined the Monkstown Dental team in 2012. I have a varied job role as both nurse and as part of our reception team. I have a special interest in digital marketing and enjoy attending as many courses as I can to keep up with its faced past environment.

Outside of work I enjoy adventures with my husband Mark and two children. I paint as much as I can in my spare time. I also have a keen interest in planetary sciences. I am currently studying BSc (hons) in natural science part time.

Lynsday Gleave

Dental Nurse. DCP RAD.
GDC no. 253152

“Why, sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast!”

I have been a dental nurse for twelve years, I have a special interest in assisting with dental implants.

I completed my dental radiography qualification in 2017

Ashley Green

Dental Nurse. DCP
GDC no. 217129

I have been a qualified and registered dental nurse since 2010, I have been working at Monkstown Dental since 2013.

My job role here is to work with the welcoming team at the desk, within the decontamination rooms also to work in the surgery alongside any of the dentists that require cover!

Outside of work I love walking, eating out, socialising with my friends and the movies! If nothing else then a bit of peace and quiet is always good!

Aimee Spencer

Dental Nurse. DCP RAD
GDC no. 219375

I have been a qualified dental nurse since 2011 and started working in Monkstown Dental in 2015. I love my job and currently my role within the team is working in surgery, I have a special interest in Dental implants. Over the years I have gained further qualifications in dentistry, Radiography, Impression taking and most recently Implant Nursing.

I am originally from Scotland but moved to Northern Ireland in 2013 to be with my now husband. We also have a little girl who takes up most of my spare time.

Kaitlin Gilliland

Dental Nurse. DCP.
GDC no. 267725

I joined Monkstown Dental in April 2017. I qualified as a dental nurse in June 2016 when I was 18.

I enjoy working in a busy, friendly and social environment. I work 4 days a week, in roles including reception, surgery and decontamination!

I hope to complete more qualifications in the future to further my dental career.

I enjoy travelling and seeing new parts of the world, trying new cuisine, socialising with friends and keeping fit.

Aimee Aston

Receptionist

I’m a receptionist at Monkstown Dental. I started working here a year ago and I love my role and my colleagues! I work closely with our patients making sure their experience runs as smoothly as possible, and they always have a friendly face on the desk- we all know not everyone likes going to dentist!

Outside of work I enjoy music, travelling and spending time with my friends and family.
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

Alex Aston

Dental Nurse

I have been working as a dental nurse since 2021, I gained my qualification in March 2024. The Team at Monkstown Dental have been an incredible support during this process. I work alongside Julia Nicholl and the Hygienist; however, you will also find me helping at reception, in the decontamination rooms and covering in other dental surgeries throughout the practice.

Outside of work I like to run, paint, and spend time with my friends and family. I am also a self-taught makeup artist!

Ellie Darley

Dental Receptionist
GDC No: 151686

I joined Monkstown in September 2023, and in November 2023 I gained my Dental Nursing Qualification. Since joining Monkstown I have been able to assist in lots of treatments which I had not experienced in the first couple of years of my career. I have been able to gain new skills and knowledge! I hope to take the radiography and implant course in the future and become a specialist nurse. I enjoy my job and love coming into the team at Monkstown every day!

When I’m not at work, you’ll find me in the gym. I love to keep busy and be active. I also love to be social, so the role of a Dental Nurse suits me well.

Emma Burton

Dental Nurse
GDC No: 200282

I am a qualified Dental Nurse and have been working in Dentistry since 2009. I joined Monkstown in 2022. I work alongside Michelle Morgan, and I love being part of a large and fantastic team in Monkstown.

When I’m not at work, I spent most of my time in nature, I am either in the water going sea swimming or on a walk with my dog Ted.

Naomi Matchett

Dental Nurse
GDC No: 300258