OUR TEAM

 

Dr. David Ward: Owner and Principle Dentist

Dr David Ward

Hi, I’m Dave. I am the owner and one of the Dentist here at The Happy Tooth Kurri Kurri.

I graduated from Charles Sturt University in 2014 with a Bachelor of Dental Science.

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. 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. Your comfort is my main priority when visiting our clinic.

Outside of Dentistry I love playing the Playstation more than I should, and spending time with my wife and children.

I look forward to seeing you in our practice soon!

 
 
 

Paige Tierney: Oral Health Therapist

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. I try 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!

 
 
 

Dr Mitchell Wheeler: Dentist

Dr Mitchell Wheeler

Hi! My name is Mitchell and I am a Dentist here at the Happy Tooth Kurri Kurri.

I grew up in Bathurst and attended Charles Sturt University close to home in Orange, where I graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Science.

The sole reason I became a Dentist is the desire to help people feel more confident and improve their self-esteem around their oral health.

Outside of work I live a very active lifestyle and I am a sport fanatic who loves a game of Basketball. Travelling is also an interest of mine. I have seen quite a lot of the world with South Africa and New York being my favourites.

I look forward to meeting you at your next Dental Appointment.

 
 

Dr Dharshan Sriranjan

Hi! I’m Dharshan, one of the dentists at The Happy Tooth Kurri.

Born and bred in Sydney, I earned a Bachelor of Applied Science at the University of Sydney before swapping the city buzz for regional New South Wales, where I completed my Bachelor of Dental Science at Charles Sturt University. 

I balance my days between perfecting smiles, planning my next culinary expedition, and cheering on Arsenal (COYG!).

I live by the philosophy that ‘a mind stretched by new experiences can never go back to old dimensions.’ 

Whether I’m exploring a new cuisine, getting lost in a new city, or diving into the latest dental research, I believe growth comes from curiosity. 

That mindset fuels how I care for my patients—always learning, always evolving, and always striving to offer the best outcomes with a gentle, tailored approach.

I look forward to helping you discover your happiest, healthiest smile!

 
 
Dr Dharshan Sriranjan: Dentist

Dr Dharshan Sriranjan: Dentist

Jon Pride: Dental Prosthetist

 

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.


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