Throught the Keyhole- Surgery: Home (Richmond)

ABOUT THE DENTIST

Introduce yourself and tell us what made you pursue a career in dentistry.

I’m Dr. Hap Gill, and I hit the milestone age of 50 a couple of years ago. It was a love of going to the dentist when I was young that made me apply for dental school. I studied at Sheffield.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career?

Rich Green, from when I was studying at the Pankey Institute in Florida. He is an amazing dentist, and an expert on human interaction. He taught me a lot about communicating with patients. You ask him a question, and he asks you a series of questions to help you figure out the answers yourself!

What are your particular interests and skills in dentistry?

I enjoyed art growing up, and I went on to use these skills in the cosmetic side of my work. I love doing Invisalign and implants because of the massive impact they have on my patients’ lives.

What are your interests outside of dentistry?

Spending time with family. I also find cooking very therapeutic—especially with a glass of wine in my hand! I love to ski, shoot and salsa dance (not at the same time!). I am also a long-suffering fan of West Ham Football Club.

What’s the biggest advancement you’ve seen in dentistry?

The use of digital scanners for planning cases and as an alternative to taking traditional impressions.

Describe the most successful or rewarding experience in your career.

I remember when a timid 15-year-old girl came in to see me. She had a missing lateral and diminutive other lateral, with several gaps, and got bullied for the way she looked.

After three years of orthodontics, some bonding and a resin bonded bridge, she is a confident young woman that bounces into our practice, full of positive energy!

She is always appreciative and keeps saying that we changed her life. I’m glad I was a part of that journey.

Are you involved in any organisations or societies?

Dentinal Tubules, and I am an ambassador for The British Academy of Microscope Dentistry.

What’s your favourite film?

Gladiator, Die Hard or White Chicks.

ABOUT THE PRACTICE

What’s the name of your practice? Where is it located?

The Gill Clinic, right on the river in Richmond. In high tide, the swans and ducks literally swim up to our front door and tap on our window.

What sets it apart from others?

I ensure that my team is our most important asset. The team goes above and beyond to make sure that our patients have an exceptional experience.

ABOUT THE TEAM

Do you work with other dentists? What are their names, and which interests/skills do they have?

Cesar Munoz takes care of all my endodontics—a big halleluiah when he joined my practice! Jaz Gulati has also just started with us.

How many other members do you have in your dental team, and what are their roles?

We have one hygienist, two receptionists, a business manager (to help me grow the business, but also HR and making sure all systems are running smoothly) and two nurses.

Do you have team meetings? What format do they take?

Once a month we have a two-hour meeting to discuss successes, challenges and personal development. Once a year we spend a day at a very nice hotel. We get to know each other even better, and get involved in presenting small topics. This year we brought in baby photos, guessed who each was, and had some silly prizes for different categories.