As the overall orthodontics marks 25 ofth Anniversary, three long -term members reflect their travels, brand evolution and the future of orthodontics.
With roots in independent practice and a vision for something bigger, Total Orthodontics has developed by a handful of practices on a national network as part of Bupa Dental Care-but in its heart, it is still a close group.
Richard Jones: a founding force behind the brand
Richard Jones, a leading lead, was with the overall orthodontics from almost day one. A specialist in orthodontics and oral surgery, Richard has been trained in hospital environments and has worked throughout Southeast England by the qualifying. He joined the team in 1999 as a specialist and quickly became an integral part of the brand we know today.
“I was there in the beginning, though not a partner initially. But by 2000, we had developed a brand identity – something rare at that time in dentistry. I would like to say that we were in front of the curve. ”
Richard Jones
Richard became director in 2006 and chairman of the Board of Directors around 2010, helping to build a business led by values that gave priority to both customer service and staff involvement. Until this time, the total orthodontics had increased to over 100 employees, backed by a clear functional model and a consolidated brand.
“People bought the vision. This buy-in from the team was critical-without that, we wouldn’t have the same success.
Through mergers and acquisitions, Richard remained a key number, proud to see how the brand evolved.
“BUPA is a big application,” he adds. “They are in line with our original values and it was fantastic to see our vision continue under their management.”
Outside the practice, Richard lives in Sussex with his wife, Kate and sons, Ben and Louis. An intense skier is known for hosting an annual orthodontic ski conference – part of training, part of companionship.
When asked about the founders: “We feel like a rock band – we didn’t think it would last so long,” he laughs. “But it is exciting to still be strong. I am proud of so many original faces are still on the journey. ”
Melissa Chen Wade: From Hospital Halls to Family
Melissa Chen Wade, head of expert Orthodontist in the Uicfield, joined Total Orthodontics 23 years ago, while working as a hospital consultant. Initially from northern London, he studied Dentistry in Bristol and invited Brighton Home for over two decades.
“When I entered, the trademark was quickly expanded and it needed more staff. I started with part -time work, working in many practices, before the Uicfield. ”
Melissa Chen Wade
Her hospital experience gave deep experience in the treatment of complex cases – facial abnormalities, jaws and surgical orthodontics – but it was the group spirit in the total orthodontics that kept her.
“There was and still is a real family feeling. We had regular meetings of affiliates and everyone’s voice was heard. We even continued on holiday – Orthodontics felt more like a way of life than a job.
An annual lead? Richard’s ski conferences, where professional conversation on the chairlifts has turned into constant memories. “When you talk to a colleague, you talk to a friend. This is rare in any profession. ”
It is proud of the journey, the challenges overcome – including the response to the evolving expectations of patients driven by social media – and continuing innovation in the field. “Technology makes treatment more comfortable, discreet and accessible. Orthodontics reaches more people than ever and I am proud to be part of it. ”
He concludes: “It was more than work – it was a life.”
Nicola Dandy: From dental nurse to orthodontic therapist
In the overall orthodontic crewe, Nicola Dandy has built a whole career – and a life. He joined the practice in 1997 as a recently specialized dental nurse and never looked back.
“I worked around the corner when a career adviser suggested dental nursing. We ended up winning a student of the year, who diverted the attention of this practice – I was offered a job and I have been here ever since.
Nicola dandy
Over the years, Nicola has gained qualifications in oral health, radiography and orthodontic nursing, becoming a 2001 nurse and later qualified as an orthodontic therapist. Today, it handles a complete range of treatments, from Invisalign to fixed devices for patients aged 10 to 80 years.
“I really treat every day as a ‘sting’,” he says. “He’s such a specialist, rewarding a care area.”
For Nicola, the 25th The anniversary is a deep personal milestone.
“I’ve grown up here. I started unmarried, now I have been married for almost 30 years with two amazing daughters. The total orthodontics was part of each chapter.
She is particularly proud of the leadership team of all women in Crewe and praised BUPA’s commitment to career development.
Looking forward, Nicola is excited about a more interdisciplinary future.
“Our campus is evolving to offer a wider range of services under a roof. It’s all about enhancing the patient’s journey. The potential is huge. ”
Of the founders of therapists, what leads to the overall orthodontic group is a common sense of pride, community and purpose. As the brand is celebrating its 25thth Year, it is clear that the heart of the business remains the same.
This article is funded by BUPA Dental Care.
