Meet the team

Dr. Eleanor Ledger (Ellie) qualified from Cardiff University in 1991 and spent her early career working in hospital dentistry, gaining a Fellowship in Dental Surgery from the Royal College of Surgeons of England in 1994.

Ellie gained valuable maxillofacial surgery experience working in the casualty department of Cheltenham General Hospital. She is now a registered specialist in surgical dentistry and regularly accepts referrals from other dentists for complex dental procedures. Ellie has specialised in treating nervous and anxious patients and is qualified to administer various sedation techniques including intravenous anaesthesia.

Ellie has been placing and restoring dental implants since 2001 and has completed a year-long multisystem dental implantology course at Trafford General Hospital in Manchester.

Ellie is proud to place and restore implants herself, from simple single-tooth replacements to large bridges and complete mouth implant rehabilitations using the latest All-on-4 technique. She is also experienced with cases requiring bone grafting, from simple alveolar grafts to sinus lifts and complex grafting procedures.

Ellie keeps up-to-date by attending several courses a year and is a member of the Association of Dental Implantology UK.

GDC Registration: 66099

See Ellie’s Dental Implant Dentist Page

After qualifying from the University of Glasgow in 2002, Dr Gillian Kemp joined the Royal Navy as a Dental Officer. During a Naval career spanning more then 14 years, she worked in different sized practices, aboard ships and was deployed overseas twice including a 6 month operational tour to Afghanistan.

She joined Arnica in 2015 with a keen interest in developing her experience of treating nervous patients. Having completed the SAAD National Course in Conscious Sedation in 2014 she then went on to gain her Post Graduate Certificate in Clinical Conscious Sedation and Anxiety Management from the University of Bristol in 2018.

Gillian has gained a wealth of experience in treating both anxious adults and children using intravenous and inhalation sedation. She is committed to helping anxious patients and believes that establishing trust between patient and dentist is a vital step towards helping patients overcome their fears.

In her spare time Gillian spends a lot of time on the hockey pitch, either playing herself or supporting her two daughters. She also enjoys reading, skiing and travelling with her family.

GDC Registration: 80491

Nicola studied dentistry at the University of Birmingham
qualifying in 2007.

She completed her vocational training in Hampshire then started a DF2 position
working in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Departments at The Royal Berkshire Hospital and The John Radcliffe Hospital whilst gaining Membership of the Joint Dental Faculty in 2010.

Nicola then spent 2 years as a Senior House Officer at the Birmingham Dental Hospital working in the Oral Surgery Department followed by the Restorative Department.

Having developed an interest in Endodontology, Nicola then completed a
Postgraduate Diploma in Endodontology in July 2020.

Nicola joined Arnica in March 2021

Nicola is married with a five-year-old boy and a 2 year old girl and in her spare time
she likes spending time with her family visiting National Trust properties, walking in
the Lake District and simply enjoying the outdoors.

GDC Registration: 112824

See Nicola’s Page

Dr Toby Mitchell-Innes was born and raised in Herefordshire, England.
He graduated from Manchester Dental School in 2016, and over the last 5 years has pursued a career in specialist dentistry working closely with consultants in Oral Surgery, Paediatrics, Restorative Dentistry, Special Care, Orthodontics and Maxillofacial Surgery.
Toby believes that everyone deserves a beautiful, healthy smile to enhance their wellbeing and quality of life.
Toby has a gentle, caring approach. He is at ease looking after nervous, anxious and dental phobic patients, who often miss out on essential treatment due to their anxiety.
He is qualified to treat patients under inhalation sedation (happy air) or intravenous (IV) sedation, which helps patients feel comfortable and relaxed. As a result, many of Toby’s patients receive treatment they never dreamt could be possible.
Committed to attending regular dental courses for continuing postgraduate education, over the past 5 years, Toby has developed a special interest in tooth alignment, cosmetic dentistry and oral surgery. He is also hoping to study implant dentistry at the University of Bristol.
In his spare time, Toby enjoys running, triathlons, golf and playing for his local tennis club. Toby reads to help him relax (every now and then).

GDC Registration 264511

Sarisa grew up in Surrey and studied dentistry at the University of Bristol, graduating in 2001.

After completing her vocational training in Herefordshire, she has worked in general practice as well as working in a variety of healthcare settings and clinical fields including Community Dental Service, Urgent Dental Care, Gerontology, Paediatrics, Domiciliary Care and Special Care Dentistry.

Sarisa has a real interest in care for anxious patients, which has been the focus of her work for the last eight years and has become an experienced sedation practitioner.

In 2010 she completed the SAAD National Course in Conscious Sedation, and ‘The Wand’ Course for Pain Free Anaesthesia in 2015.

She then gained her Post Graduate Certificate in Dental Sedation and Pain Management in 2017.

“I find it rewarding helping those that have struggled to cope with dental treatment previously to receive the care they need. I enjoy creating a relaxed, supportive, and confident clinical environment. As a well-established and successful sedation dental practice, Arnica fulfilled all the aspects I was looking for. I am very excited to be joining the team!”

Sarisa enjoys life on the side of the Malvern Hills with her husband and seven-year-old son. She loves walking on the hills and gym classes.
The proud owner of an ex racehorse, her passion outside of work is horse riding.

GDC Registration 79141

See Sarisa’s Page

Goldie Songra grew up in London and qualified in Dentistry from the University of Bristol in 2004. Following qualification, he worked in primary, secondary and tertiary care and held posts in Maxillofacial Surgery, Restorative and Paediatric Dentistry at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kings Lynn and Manchester Dental Hospital respectively. He also worked as a Community Dental Officer in Bolton, working with patients with dental phobia and severe learning disabilities.

His Orthodontic training was undertaken at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton, as part of the South West Orthodontic Training Program and he obtained his Membership in Orthodontics with the Royal College of Surgeons of England. He also gained a Doctorate in Dental Surgery from the University of Bristol simultaneously in 2011. He continued his further Consultant senior training and completed his Post-CCST post at Bristol Dental Hospital and Royal United Hospital, Bath obtaining his Fellowship in Orthodontics in 2013 and is currently a Fellow of Dental Surgery in Orthodontics at the prestigious Royal College of Surgeons of England.

Goldie is currently a full time Orthodontic Consultant at the Royal Worcestershire Hospital, where he takes an active role in postgraduate training of specialist registrars and senior trainees to Consultant level. He is also an examiner for the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. He is Chair of the Orthodontic Managed Clinical Network for Herefordshire & Worcestershire where he leads collaborative working between clinicians and commissioners to improve and advance Orthodontics in the region.

Goldie has experience in treating a broad range of dento-facial problems in children and adults, including micro and macro smile aesthetics, dental health concerns, Orthodontics, digital Orthodontics. He has also managed patients with complex jaw and teeth problems that require Orthodontics in conjunction with other dental specialities, as part of a multidisciplinary team approach.

He has a particular interest in the management of dento-facial deformities and expertise in a number of contemporary Orthodontic treatment techniques, using various appliances, such as tooth-coloured white cosmetic fixed braces and clear aligners.

Goldie’s real passion is helping people achieve a positive body image through Orthodontics and treats every patient in a caring, conscientious and compassionate manner. His ethos is about working together with patients to produce a beautiful, healthy smile and his goal has always been a satisfied patient, with a positive overall experience.

Goldie is friendly, approachable and always enthusiastic about providing an enjoyable dental experience. He is happy to work through any questions or concerns that you may have prior to tailoring the treatment uniquely to your individual needs.

In his spare time, he likes to travel and visit different countries and experience diverse cultures. He loves trying different cuisines and enjoys watching Marvel, Science Fiction and Action movies.

Toheed graduated from Bristol University in 2008 and has worked in NHS and Private practices since qualifying. Over the past 6 years, Toheed has held the role of Foundation Dentist Trainer and is responsible for mentoring and guiding newly qualified dentists during their transition from university to general practice.

He has furthered his postgraduate education by completing two years of the MSc in Dental Implantology programme at the University of Bristol. He has been a member of the International Team of Implantology, and regularly attends courses to expand upon his knowledge. He has been placing implants since 2014.

Toheed takes pride in being able to help patients develop confidence in their teeth and smile, often using minimally invasive techniques. He has a holistic approach to dental care and appreciates the importance of being able to provide a spectrum of treatments tailored to the patient’s needs.

Toheed’s advice for patients considering dental implant treatment is, “Find someone with very good experience placing implants and who has studied them well. Implants are a very good, comfortable, long term treatment solution, therefore knowing as much as possible about your treatment options and the person doing the treatment for you is very important before you decide to go ahead.”

Outside of work, Toheed is a keen sportsman. He loves to play cricket, golf, football, tennis and many other sports. Toheed is also a keen cyclist and motorcyclist. He enjoys spending time with his young family.

See Toheed’s Page

Lucy Conrad qualified from the University of Birmingham in 1991 and has many years of experience in general practice in Cornwall, London and Cheltenham. Lucy also teaches dental students at the university of Bristol, and continually updates her skills by attending postgraduate courses. She is known for her gentle and thorough approach and is popular with our community of patients.

Emma graduated from Bristol University with a Diploma in Dental Hygiene and Therapy in 2010.

With a passion for helping patients improve their oral health not only is Emma a dental hygienist she is also a qualified and experienced dental therapist that enables her to complete additional treatment under prescription from dentists including fillings and baby tooth extractions.

Emma joined the Arnica team in February 2019 and the feedback from patients has been excellent.

As well as working at Arnica Emma continues to work in community for Gloucestershire Care Services as a dental therapist.

Emma has a young family to keep her busy and to relax she enjoys gardening and socialising with family and friends.

To keep fit she is a keen runner and is currently focusing on smashing her 5K personal best at her local Park Run

‘‘I know it sounds like a cliche, but prevention is better than cure when it comes to oral health! I am always keen to provide patients with top tips to looking after teeth and gums and how to get the best results with brilliant new dental care products like Tepe – the fab alternative to flossing’’

GDC Registration: 124913

As a little girl, Lesley loved going to see her dentist because ‘’she was so nice and so much fun’’ – and, without knowing it then, her future career path was set!

Later, after joining the RAF, she decided she wanted to train to become a hygienist. So, Lesley applied for, and was successfully awarded, a place on the highly esteemed RAF’s Institute of Dental Health and Training at RAF Halton. She graduated in 1995.

Lesley remained in the RAF for 11 years with postings in South Wales, Aylesbury, and Butnalso in Germany.

When she left the RAF, Lesley moved to Cheltenham and worked for a private practice for two years before moving to London.

After two years in London, the lure of the West Country was too much! Lesley moved back to Gloucestershire, where she worked in various practices doing locum work. During this time she met Ellie Ledger (our Principal Dentist) at an Arnica Dental open evening and immediately thought ‘I want to work here one day!’. She loved that it felt like such a welcoming, modern and professional practice.

Lesley is keen to maintain her professional development; she attends dental hygienist courses and training days so she can provide the most up-to-date treatment to her patients. Her passion for looking after anxious patients has meant that she has also invested a lot of time learning about and refining gentle dentistry techniques.

She is also on the committee for Gloucestershire Independent Dental Hygienists and Therapists (GIDHT).

In her spare time, Lesley loves live music (particularly festivals), up-cycling furniture and gardening.

GDC Registration: 4685

Jo joined Arnica in November 2021. Her childhood was spent in Poznan in Poland where she went to school and then qualified as a dental clinician in 2003.

Since moving to Britain she has worked in dental practices in Gloucestershire, Cheltenham and Monmouth, gaining experience in both NHS and private settings.

Jo is a member of the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT) and has trained to provide whitening treatments.

Her focus is providing excellent dental care and the most important thing for her is prevention. She finds treating anxious patients is the most fulfilling part of her job and she enjoys helping them relax and overcome their fears.

She says, “Everyone at Arnica is so lovely and helpful, you have made me feel very welcome.”

In her spare time Jo loves spending time with her two children, her husband and her two dogs. One of her most proud moments was completing the London Marathon in 2021.

Rebecca embarked on her dental journey in 2010 within a bustling Bristol practice, achieving her dental nursing qualification in 2012. Her journey led her to Bupa Dental Care in 2013, where she thrived in a private Clifton practice. Transitioning to Bupa Dental Care Leckhampton in 2014, Rebecca took on the role of lead nurse, gaining invaluable experience in implants, oral surgery, and endodontics. In 2022, she added radiography to her skillset.

Following the closure of Bupa Dental Care Leckhampton in 2023, Rebecca found her new home at Arnica, eager to pursue a sedation qualification and delve into orthodontics. Rebecca is keen to expand her knowledge and gain new experiences while at our welcoming practice.

Julie joined Arnica in 2005 bringing with her a wealth of nursing experience having qualified as a dental nurse in 1974.

During her time as a dental nurse Julie has attended numerous courses on oral surgery, implants and sedation.

She particularly enjoys assisting with cosmetic dentistry as she loves to see the pleasure on patients’ faces when they see how good they look in the mirror, when their procedure is complete and they can smile with confidence.

Julie also gets a lot of satisfaction from treating anxious and dental-phobic patients.

GDC Registration: 120168

Hannah joined Arnica in August 2021, having worked at Bupa Dental Care Tewkesbury for over two years.

Qualifying in 2021, Hannah is new to dental nursing, although she wanted to work in the healthcare sector after university, where she studied Social Policy – Health and Social Care.

”I have always wanted to work in a healthcare setting where I am able to help patients, while working as part of a team.”

Hannah joined Arnica to gain experience in looking after anxious patients using gentle dentistry and sedation, as well as assist in more complex procedures such as dental implants.

”What I love about working at Arnica is that despite everyone working really hard, there is a friendly calming atmosphere within the practice, and you really feel supported.”

To help patients relax, Hannah keeps the patient talking about a wide range of topics not related to dentistry. She makes sure they feel in control and that if they need anything, whether it’s a cup of water or a hand to hold, it’s available.

“My top tip for healthy teeth and gums is to brush your teeth twice a day, especially before you go to sleep.”

In her spare time Hannah enjoys baking, walks and visiting National Trust properties. She also loves going home to Scarborough to visit family, friends and the seaside.

Nikita, who was 21 when she joined Arnica, grew up in Coleshill in Birmingham and completed her dental nursing qualifications at Walsall College

Nikita has since worked at a general NHS practice and a private orthodontic practice and is currently enrolled on a sedation nursing course hoping to complete a canulation course and radiography course soon.

Nikita chose Arnica because she’d like to assist with complex procedures as well as look after anxious and dental phobic patients. She also loves our lovely location and beautiful working environment.

‘’All my colleagues are really lovely and have really helped me to settle in. I also love how organised the practice is’’

‘’My top tip for patients is to try and relax as much as possible before you arrive and don’t be afraid to ask your dentists lots of questions’’

Nikita helps patients to relax by chatting to them about what they’re up to and what they’ve got planned for the weekend leaving treatment to the dentists.

In her spare time Nikita loves seeing friends and family as well as going to football matches.

Cloe joined Arnica in January 2021 with eight years of dental nursing experience, having completed her National Examination Board for Dental Nurse (NEBDN) Diploma in 2015.

In 2022 Cloe was promoted to Lead Nurse, a role that saw her managing a 7-strong nursing team and successfully steering the practice through Covid and a CQC (Care Quality Commission) review.

Due to her attention to detail, excellent people management skills and popularity with both clinicians and patients, Cloe was promoted to Practice Manager in March 2023.

‘’I always wanted to be a part of the healthcare profession, working as part of a team. It is extremely rewarding, creating endless smiles, and achieving life-changing results for patients.’’

‘’I feel very proud to be working with such a talented team whose reputation for exceptional-quality treatment as well as award-winning patient care has established us as one of the leading practices in the region’’.

Cloe, who lives in the countryside, loves the great outdoors, horse riding, and enjoying beautiful walks with her boyfriend and her chocolate Labrador.

Hannah re-joined Arnica in February 2023 as Treatment Coordinator.

Her six years’ dental nursing experience prior to this includes 4 years at a Bupa Dental Care practice in Ross-on-Wye, 2 years at Arnica Dental Care and further year working for a dental implant team.

Qualifying in 2019, Hannah has also completed sedation training, dental impression and shade taking courses.

Hannah’s Treatment Co-ordination focuses on looking after patients prior to, during and after their treatment journey whether it’s a simple extraction with sedation or a full mouth rehabilitation requiring the all-on-4 procedure. Hannah will also provide extra support to anxious and dental phobic patients.

“I wanted to work in healthcare at school, so jumped at the chance to do work experience at Bupa Dental Care Ross-on-Wye who then offered me an apprenticeship.

‘’I first joined Arnica because the practice offered me the opportunity to develop my knowledge and skills, in particular sedation and assisting with complex procedures, such as All-on-4. I re-joined Arnica in 2023 because I recognised that we had an amazing team doing exceptional-quality work and I wanted to remain part of that.’’

In her spare time Hannah enjoys watching sports and loves spending time with her dog Elsie-Mae.

Louise joined Arnica in 2013 and has been instrumental in shaping the non-clinical aspect of how we look after our patients, referral patients and referral dentists.

Married with two grown up children Louise enjoys spending time with family and friends and out walking with their miniature schnauzer Remi.

Rachel Joined Arnica at the start of 2018, bringing with her a wealth of dental knowledge from another private practice in Cheltenham.

She likes to make the patient journey at Arnica a pleasant, stress free experience. Her idea of success is to see a patient build their confidence at visiting Arnica and no longer need sedation for treatment, where they once struggled with even booking an appointment.

During her spare time, Rachel enjoys swimming, paddleboarding and camping when the weather’s fine.

Lucy joined the Arnica team in August 2023 following eight years of working as a hairdresser. Lucy loves meeting new patients and putting them at ease from the beginning of their patient journey, and she enjoys the busy environment in which every day is different.