Dr David Ward

Hi I’m Dave, a Dentist here at The Happy Tooth.

I graduated from Charles Sturt University in Orange NSW back in 2014 after 5 years of study with a Bachelor of Dental Science degree. After my course I was fortunate enough to come back home, to the Family business - The Happy Tooth!

Over the years I have worked at all of The Happy Tooth locations, but since 2015 when we opened The Happy Tooth in Kurri Kurri I have worked here. I love using the latest and best technology that the Dental industry has available which is why it is a pleasure to work here as our practice has many devices rarely seen outside specialists’ clinics.

I enjoy the practical side of dentistry, using the most modern equipment, materials and information to create the best possible results for my patients. I am very patient and make sure that your comfort is paramount when visiting our clinic.

Outside of Dentistry I also love technology and electronics playing the Playstation more than I should. When I venture outside I (try) and play tennis with my wife, go SCUBA diving and skiing/snowboarding.

I look forward to seeing you in our practice soon!

Dr Grace Munns

Hello! My name is Grace and I am a Dentist with a Bachelor of Dental Science (distinction) from Charles Sturt University (Orange). Prior to this I completed a Bachelor of Oral Health at Sydney University and worked for six years in the public health sector on the Central Coast.

I love being a Dentist because not only can we help improve your oral and general health by managing dental decay, gum disease and other pathologies but also your quality of life through relief of pain, helping you to eat, drink and talk in comfort and restoring your smile.

Here at The Happy Tooth we take a modern approach to dental care and your comfort is paramount. I seek to produce the best outcomes for all my patients with a gentle and caring approach and have a particular interest in treating children, patients with special needs/medical conditions and those with phobias or anxiety.

Outside of Dentistry I enjoy sports, exploring our beautiful coastlines, hiking, health and fitness and spending time with family and friends.

Looking forward to meeting you and welcoming you to our friendly team at The Happy Tooth.

Dr Dharshan Sriranjan

Hi! My name is Dharshan and I am one of the new dentists at The Happy Tooth Kurri.

I grew up in Sydney and aspired to be a dentist from a young age. After completing a Bachelor of Applied Science at the University of Sydney, I went on to pursue my passion in Regional and Rural New South Wales. Here I completed a Bachelor of Dental Science at Charles Sturt University and gained invaluable experience in all aspects of dentistry.

Staying true to my profession and with the patient’s wellbeing at the forefront, I am committed to staying up to date with the latest research and technological advancements. My treatment philosophy has a strong emphasis on preventive dentistry, ensuring my patients are well informed and that their care is tailored to suit their individual needs. I am determined to deliver exceptional quality dental care for my patients in a gentle and calming manner.

As a new resident to the area, I look forward to discovering the local hotspots and brunch scene that Newcastle and the Hunter have to offer. I am a sports fanatic and love to experience new cultures, foods and places with my partner - so next time you’re in for a clean at The Happy Tooth Kurri, let me know your recommendations for my new home!

Paige Tierney (Oral Health Therapist)

Hi, I’m Paige! I am an Oral Health Therapist here at The Happy Tooth Kurri Kurri.

I have worked at The Happy Tooth since 2015, progressing from a dental assistant, practice coordinator, to now an OHT. I graduated from Charles Sturt University at the end on 2022, after studying in Wagga Wagga for 3 years.

My job is my passion. I love helping create a comfortable and judgement free environment for patients of all ages to visit, trying my best to provide the best source of care between myself and the other amazing clinicians in the practice.

Outside of work I enjoy reading, fitness, hanging out with my friends & family, and finding new places to eat /cooking new things!

I can’t wait to meet you at your next appointment!

Jon Pride (Prosthetist)

Hi! My name is Jon and I graduated from Randwick Tafe with and Associate Diploma in Dental Technology in 1999. After 2 years of gaining experience throughout a diverse range of cases in the field of dental technology, I furthered my studies as a dental technician by upgrading my qualifications to a Diploma in Dental Technology. In 2004 I pursued my passion further by undertaking an Advanced Diploma in Dental prosthesis, graduating in July 2006 as a registered Dental Prosthetist. In doing so I also received the ‘Phil Harris Award’ for the best student overall. My studies continue today constantly gaining knowledge in the field of dentures and more recently implant retained dentures. In 2009 I was involved in the education of Dental Prosthetics at Randwick Tafe as the assistant teacher for implant retained dentures.

I have been working in Sydney throughout my career and am thoroughly enjoying escaping the city to work within the beautiful surroundings of the Hunter Valley, especially due to the abundance of golf courses, vineyards and exciting motorcycle rides at my fingertips.