Meet the Team

I’m the principal dentist here at Quay and the friendly face behind the chair who actually loves a good catch-up as much as the dentistry (yes, really). I’m all about making a visit feel less scary and more like a chat with a friend—just with healthy teeth at the end.

When I’m not in the clinic, I’m usually busy behind the scenes helping keep things running smoothly—quietly making sure everything ticks along while the real stars (the team!) do their thing.

Outside of dentistry, I’m married to superstar James—who not only keeps me sane and well-caffeinated, but also happens to be the brains behind the business. He’s the steady hand when things get hectic, and the reason I can focus on what I love most: looking after our patients.

Together we manage two energetic kids, two equally energetic dogs, and one unimpressed cat. I squeeze in a game of hockey when I can—mostly for fun, partly for survival. Life’s busy, slightly chaotic, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

I’m one of the dentists at Quay Dental, specialising in Invisalign and cosmetic dentistry. I love working with my patients, helping them to overcome any anxiety about their treatment and achieve the smile they’ve always dreamed of. When I’m not at work, you’ll most likely find me somewhere outdoors… hiking the coast path with my husband and rescue Labrador, wild swimming, paddle boarding or trying (with mixed success) to grow vegetables! Fun fact: I used to be on the lifeboat crew in Salcombe

I’m proud to be part of the team at Quay Dental as a visiting dentist, providing oral surgery for our patients. I understand that this side of dentistry can feel daunting, so I focus on creating a calm, reassuring experience.

Outside of work, I love staying active—whether I’m on the yoga mat, halfway up a climbing wall, or at the gym. I’m still trying to convince myself I enjoy running, although I did manage to complete a marathon… and a wine marathon in France (the wine definitely helped). Life’s all about balance, after all!

I’ve been part of the NHS for over 25 years, spending most of that time in the world of anaesthetics – making sure patients are calm, comfortable, and blissfully unaware during surgery! For the past 15 years, I’ve been a consultant anaesthetist at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth, after training in London. I specialise in neuroanaesthesia and set up the regional awake craniotomy service – yes, that’s brain surgery where the patient stays awake (don’t worry, they’re very chilled out).

When I’m not in theatre, I’m usually found with my nose in a book, knitting something slightly wonky, or out walking my very well-behaved dogs (they’ve asked me to include that part). I’m also a die-hard England Women’s Rugby supporter – expect shouting at the TV and emotional highs and lows in equal measure!

I’m Nicola, but please call me Nic—or I’ll feel like I’m in trouble.

I’ve been in the dental trade for over 20 years, starting out as a dental nurse before discovering my true passion in dental therapy. Now, as a dental therapist, I’m here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, happy smile. I’m fully trained to carry out dental examinations, take x-rays, and restore your teeth if you need a filling—and I genuinely love doing it.

During your appointment, you might catch me humming along to the music, sharing random observations, or just doing my bit to create a relaxed, comfortable environment.

Outside of work, I become a full-time taxi driver to my three children, walk the dog with my husband, and live for those rare, quiet moments when I can get comfy with a good book.

I’m proud to be part of the Quay Dental family—a team that brings warmth, professionalism, and a bit of fun to every patient experience.

With over 30 years of experience in the dental field, I feel incredibly lucky to do a job I love, in a place I love—right by the beautiful estuary, working alongside an amazing team and a wonderful community.

My journey in dentistry began back in 1989 when I started out as a dental nurse. Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of enjoying a varied and rewarding career, including working as a dental hygienist, teaching at a local dental school, mentoring future professionals, and contributing to dental research. I’ve also been fortunate enough to work with the General Dental Council, helping to shape standards of care within the profession.

I’m passionate about helping people maintain their oral health and aim to make a positive difference with every visit. I truly believe that good dental care is about more than just teeth—it’s about trust, kindness, and making people feel at ease.

Outside of the clinic, you’ll usually find me outdoors—walking the coastal paths with my furry companion or chasing after my grandchildren on the beach.

I absolutely love what I do, and whether I’m mentoring students, supporting colleagues, or caring for patients, I bring the same passion and enthusiasm to every part of my work.

Hi, I’’m Rachelle – AKA Rashellie and Nat’s third toddler.
I’m a qualified dental nurse here at Quay Dental, known for always bringing energy, laughter, and a bit of mischief to the team. Whether I’m supporting patients, assisting clinicians, or keeping spirits high, I’m always up for a challenge (and usually multitasking with a smile!).
I’m currently expanding my skills by training as an Oral Health Practitioner. This exciting role will allow me to provide more hands-on patient care and help educate our community on maintaining great oral health.
When I’m not at work, you’ll find me chasing around after my 2 girls, riding a horse or dancing on a table with a margarita in hand!

Hi, I’m Elsie dedicated dental nurse with over a decade of experience who loves periodontal care and oral hygiene. I’m passionate about helping people achieve healthier, cleaner smiles and take pride in making each patient feel at ease during their visit. Outside of work, I’m a proud parent to an energetic 8-year-old son who keeps life fun and full of surprises. I’m also an animal lover through and through—you’ll often find me surrounded by pets or enjoying time in nature, I’m also an avid learner of aerial hoop so if I wasn’t working at Quay Dental I would have ran away to join the circus.

I’m the lead dental nurse at Quay Dental, I help to support our fabulous nursing team, look after our lovely patients in the surgery and work with our wonderful clinicians during my time chair side. I love to support our patients on their dental journey and I’m incredibly grateful to be able to support our more nervous patients during their time in the dental chair and help to ease their anxiety together. I also help to train our lovely trainee dental nurses at the start of their nursing career which is incredibly rewarding. When I’m not at our awesome practice, I’m normally off galavanting on my solo adventures, being a bookworm or doing something creative! I also love film, TV and the theatre so I am always up for discussions or recommendations!

I’m the spontaneous trainee dental nurse at Quay Dental, here to ensure your smile shines and your visit feels more like a chat than a trip to the dentist. When I’m not working, you’ll probably catch me basking in the sunshine or adding more clothes to my ever-growing wardrobe. And yes, my tan is 100% real come summer.

You’ll often hear me called Madge – mostly because I tend to think I’m in trouble when Nat calls her dog Maddie. While we share the same energy, I don’t actually bark.
I like to think I’m the nurse you can count on if you need someone to talk to during a nerve-wracking appointment, and I’m always up for a chat about life.
Massive water baby at heart, so best get the suction at the ready.

I’m Summer and I am one of the Trainee Dental Nurses at the best practice in town: Quay Dental. I am probably most known for being able to control Nat’s ‘toddler brain’ (ADHD) and keeping her on time. However best known by patients for nagging them on a Friday afternoon to confirm their appointments on Monday. (Sorry) I love all our patients and strive to make them feel comfortable and relaxed in an environment that stereotypically is a ‘horrible place’. When i’m not working at the practice you will probably find me at a Club with a Pinot Grigio in hand sounding like a cat being strangled when ‘show me love’ by Robin S comes on!

I’m Quay Dental’s resident multitasker, Treatment Coordinator, and Head Receptionist (yes, I wear all the hats). I’m here to make sure your journey with us is smooth, friendly, and full of smiles – hopefully ones you love even more when you leave!

What do I love most about my job? Easy – the people. Quay Dental isn’t just where I work, it’s my second family (and sometimes it feels like my first, let’s be honest).

When I’m not busy running the front desk like a boss, I’m running around after my little mini me – mum life never stops!

Fun fact: My jawbone is actually made from my hip bone. Yep, you read that right!

I’m the multitasking engine behind the scenes at Quay Dental, making sure everything runs as smoothly as a freshly polished smile. From supporting our fantastic team to driving improvements across the practice, I’m passionate about creating a seamless, welcoming experience for both patients and staff alike. Whether it’s compliance, patient communications, or keeping us on track for growth—I’m always on hand.

Outside the practice, I’m usually running around after my two energetic little ones, who keep life fast-paced and full of laughter. And when I do get a moment to myself, I might just be indulging in my not-so-secret obsession with Vinted—my wardrobe will confirm it!

I’m also proud to be currently working with the General Dental Council as part of a panel for Fitness to Practise, helping to uphold the standards of our profession on a national level. It’s a privilege to contribute to the wider dental community while staying rooted in the day-to-day heart of a busy, patient-focused practice.

I’m James Lake, Managing Director of the practice — and the one tasked with keeping Natalie (mostly) in check. I focus on the growth and smooth running of the business, supporting both the team and our patients to make sure everything behind the scenes (and occasionally out front) stays on track. I step in when needed to help manage the more challenging moments — whether that’s with keeping patients happy or keeping our brilliant team supported and stress-free.

Before joining Quay Dental, I served in the Royal Marines — an experience that shaped my approach to leadership, teamwork, and staying calm under pressure. These days, alongside my role at the practice, I also run a small farm, which brings its own set of daily adventures (and early mornings).

Outside of work, you’ll usually find me chasing after our two young kids (or some sheep), watching, playing, or listening to rugby (often simultaneously), and attempting to drink a coffee before it goes cold.