Confident straighter smiles start here

Training and qualifications

Dr Saifullah Khan BDS, MFD RCS (Ireland), MFDS RCPS (Glasgow), DSCD RCS (Edinburgh), MSc (UK)
Dental Surgeon with Orthodontic Special Interest at Gate Dental Clinic, Galway

Dr Saif Khan graduated as a Dentist in 2006, after which he gained broad based experience in dentistry in mainly hospital and academic environment, before moving to Ireland in 2016. He did his specialist training in Orthodontics and Paediatric Dentistry, where he gained experience in fixed and removable braces of children and adults. He has special interest in jaw growth modifications in teenagers, and also a broad experience in alignment and relapse cases in adults.

Treatments offered

Dr Saif is also a certified Invisalign provider and uses this option for many suitable adult and teenage patients. He works with our other team members for the ABC approach: Align-Bleach-Composite Bonding.

Dr Saif has also completed his training in Special Care Dentistry at the University College London/ Eastman Dental Institute, London, Leading to MSc Special Care dentistry and DSCD RCS (Edinburgh).

During his training in Special Care Dentistry, Dr Saif got vast exposure of dental treatment of patients with medical problems and those with anxiety to dental treatment.
Dr. Saif is a nature loving person and is also famous for his cooking skills.

Training and qualifications

Dr Ann Gilligan has been a dentist for 20+ years, having obtained her BDS from University College Cork in 2002.

Treatments offered

As a child, Ann had orthodontic treatment which piqued her interest in all things dental and orthodontic. She has a special interest in Invisalign, veneers and crowns. She finds completing alignment of teeth in an easy, comfortable and speedy fashion incredibly satisfying.

Ann enjoys all aspects of general dentistry and likes the challenge of no two days being the same.  She hopes to continue developing professionally and keeping up to date with all the latest technology and methods.

Ann speaks English, Irish and French. Outside of dental, Ann is a mother of three children who keep her on her toes. She enjoys tennis and swimming in her downtime.

Professor Eduardo Tapia Vidal is a distinguished orthodontist with an impressive academic and professional career.

Training and qualifications

Eduardo completed his dental training at the University of Sheffield in 1997 and initially worked as a general dentist in Madrid. His passion for expanding his expertise led him to pursue specialised training in orthodontics, paediatric dentistry, and implantology.

In 2000, Professor Tapia Vidal completed a two-year course in dental implantology and began his teaching career as an assistant lecturer in orthodontics at the European University of Madrid. His dedication to education and research continued as he supervised undergraduate students in paediatric dentistry and orthodontics at the university’s dental clinic.

In 2002, Professor Tapia Vidal embarked on a Ph.D. in orthodontics at the Complutense University of Madrid, earning his doctorate “Cum Laude” in 2008. His extensive research and academic achievements positioned him as a leading authority in his field. He later completed a three-year master’s degree in orthodontics at the European University of Madrid in 2009, further cementing his expertise.

Treatments offered

Professor Tapia Vidal specialises in Incognito lingual orthodontics and holds official Invisalign accreditation, allowing him to provide innovative and discreet orthodontic solutions to his patients. His focus on advanced orthodontic treatments ensures optimal results and patient satisfaction.

Currently, Professor Tapia Vidal serves as the Undergraduate Orthodontic Head of Department at the European University of Madrid, where he inspires and mentors future orthodontists. He also maintains exclusive private practices in Dublin and Madrid, offering patients personalised care and comprehensive orthodontic treatment plans.

Beyond his technical expertise, Professor Tapia Vidal is known for his warm and approachable manner. He fosters strong patient relationships and strives to create a comfortable and supportive environment for all. His commitment to excellence and his contributions to the field of orthodontics make him a respected and sought-after professional in the industry.

Training and qualifications

Salma did her Bachelors of Science and graduated from Bahuddin Zakariya University, Pakistan with honours. She practiced general dentistry with special interest in orthodontics and did her post graduate diploma in orthodontics. She has done certification in cryosurgery (periodontology) from Oregon Health and Science University USA. She has gained the qualification in the Membership of Faculty of Dental Surgery with the Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland.

Treatments offered

Salma is also a qualified provider of Six Months Smiles, Inman Aligners, Fast Braces and Dento Correct (clear Braces). She enjoys all aspects of general dentistry.

B.Dent Sc BDS 2017

Training and qualifications

Dr Kate graduated Queens University Belfast with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) in 2017. She has been working with Smiles Dental for 5+ years.

Treatments offered

Kate provides all general dentistry treatments and has a special interest in extractions. She is also an Invisalign clear aligner provider (teeth straightening)

A bit about Kate

She likes to look after patients by making their experience as calm and comfortable as possible. She aims to explain everything in a way that’s easy to understand, and create a friendly, relaxed environment. She findd it really rewarding when patients leave feeling less nervous and more confident about coming to the dentist  

Dr Kate plans to do develop her knowledge and experience further with extra training for minor oral surgery procedures and dental implants.

Outside of dentistry, Kate is involved in sports both on and off the field, playing hockey for Rathgar Hockey Club and watching rugby, golf, GAA whenever she can.

Training and qualifications

Dr Ewelina Szkaradek trained at the Medical University of Lublin in Poland, graduating in 1993. Prior to joining the Smiles Dental Grand Canal Square practice in 2017, Dr Szkaradek practiced general dentistry for over 20 years. Dr Szkaradek puts compassion and patient comfort at the centre of her practice, and has a special interest in working with patients who may be nervous coming to see the dentist. Dr Szkaradek also continues her professional development, and enjoys practicing endodontics and restorative dentistry. She is also a qualified Invisalign Go provider, and enjoys helping her patients feel more confident and comfortable showing off their new smiles after treatment.

Training and qualifications

Dr Ayesha graduated from de’Montmorency College of Dentistry in Punjab, Pakistan in 2006 with a BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) and FCPS Prosthodontics Fellowship or Physicians and Surgeons). She also holds MFDS RCSI (Membership of the Faculty of Dentistry with the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland.)

Treatments offered

As well as being a general dentist, Ayesha has a special interest in Veneers, Crowns, Bonding, Trioclear Aligners (teeth straightening), Dentures and Bridges.

She really enjoys working with nervous patients, taking the time to provide dental care with a gentle and calm approach. Ayesha loves how even small dental work can transform a smile and positively effect a patients self-esteem.

Ayseha has been working in Ireland since 2020 and hopes to progress more in the fields of orthodontics and implant dentistry in the coming years.

She is a mom of two children and expresses her creative side by panting in her free time. Ayesha is fluent in Englieh, Urdu and Punjabi.

Training and qualifications

Anthosh is originally from South Africa and qualified from Stellenbosch University in 2000.

Following a year of community dentistry in South Africa, Anthosh moved to London and worked in general practice for 10 years. During this time, she completed a two-year postgraduate course in Endodontics and still regularly attends professional development courses.

In 2011, she moved to Ireland with her Irish husband where they have now settled with their two children. Anthosh loves all aspects of restorative dentistry and is committed to learning new techniques and technologies to provide quality care for her patients.

M.Sc. Orthodontics (UK), M.Sc. Periodontology (UK), Member of the British Orthodontic Society

Dr Janusz Banasik is an experienced dentist with a special interest in orthodontics providing a range of orthodontic treatment.

Training and qualifications

Dr Janusz received his undergraduate qualification from the University of Lodz in Poland in 1994 with distinction. He was awarded Master of Science in Orthodontics (with merit) by the University of Warwick (UK) and went on to acquire an M.Sc. in Clinical Periodontology from UCLAN (UK). In 2023 and in recognition of Dr. Janusz’ scientific work, his research was accepted by the panel of reviewers for presentation during the Annual Congress of European Orthodontic Society.

Treatments offered

The knowledge and experience gained from his postgraduate studies enables Dr. Janusz to treat a broad range of orthodontic patients, including children and patients with significantly reduced periodontal support (stable periodontal disease). When necessary, Dr. Janusz prepares patients with active gum disease for orthodontic treatment, and he applies his 30 years of experience to treat some of the most complex cases. Dr. Janusz is certified by Invisalign System, Incognito Lingual Braces, Insignia Braces System – Advanced Smile Design. He is also competent in applying advanced technologies and methods to achieve significant results, benefitting the patient’s individual needs.

Training and qualifications

German graduated as a Dentist in 1997 from Universidad Maimónides in Buenos Aires. He completed postgraduate orthodontic training at the Argentine Dental Association and went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Orthodontics from the University of Buenos Aires, graduating in 2002 with an outstanding mark of 9/10.

Treatments

With over 10 years of experience in aligner therapy, German has developed a special interest in clear aligner orthodontics. His dedication to excellence earned him the Invisalign Top Provider Award in 2024.

German is vastly experienced in a full range of orthodontic appliances and with a reputation for delivering great smiles and excellent facial aesthetics; German is passionate about creating confident, healthy smiles.

Professional Memberships

• SAO – Argentine Orthodontic Society (Registered Specialist)
• ALADO – Latin American Orthodontic Association
• SEDO – Spanish Orthodontic Society
• BOS – British Orthodontic Society
• GDC – General Dental Council (UK)
• IDC – Irish Dental Council

Personal

German moved with his family to Belfast in 2014 from Valencia Spain and joined ORTHO Dundalk in February 2021. He is a third-generation dentist fully dedicated to orthodontics and is deeply committed to providing the highest standard of care. German treats every patient with the same attention and compassion he would give a family member. He is fluent in Spanish and English.

Beyond orthodontics, German is passionate about barbecue cooking and enjoys using his Kamado grill all year round. He loves exploring different cuisines and cultures and often listens to history podcasts in his free time. He is also the proud father of twins currently studying for their AS levels.

Training and qualifications

Dr. Lauren Mc Hugh graduated from Dental Science in Trinity College Dublin, with Honours, in 2018. She began working in for the group in January 2020.

As someone who loves to learn, she has continued her education with courses in Invisalign Go, comprehensive Invisalign, aesthetic dentistry masterclasses in the Eastman Dental Institute and facial aesthetic masterclasses with Relife from Menarini and Profhilo from IBSA. Lauren has a level 7 Certificate in Facial Aesthetics and is currently completing a Diploma in Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Dentistry.

Treatments offered

Lauren always wants to be able to provide a high standard of work, with the most up-to-date training and use evidence-based techniques. Digital dentistry is something she has incorporated into her procedures. She carries out her procedures with a minimalistic approach to achieve subtle improvements in the mouth and face. Lauren has experience in all areas of general dentistry but has a special interest in helping nervous patients, in cosmetic dentistry and in facial aesthetics. She strives to try and be the best dentist she can be for her patients.

BDS NUI, MFD RCSI, MFDS RCSEd, MFDS RCSEng, MFDS RCPS Glasgow, MSc ORTHO, M ORTH RCSEng, M ORTH RCSEd, M ORTH RCPS Glasgow, FFD RCSI, DIPLOMATE BOARD CERTIFIED ORTHODONTIST AND DENTOFACIAL ORTHOPEDICS

Training and qualifications

Dr Khalid Alfarsi is a specialist orthodontist with an array of qualifications, holding 11 prestigious credentials in the field of orthodontics. He earned his dental degree from University College Cork and went on to complete a three-year postgraduate program in orthodontics, where he also obtained a master’s degree in the specialty.  

His qualifications span multiple royal colleges, including the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, England, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. He holds diplomas such as the MFDS (Membership of the Faculty of Dental Surgery) and MORTH (Membership in Orthodontics) from RCPS Glasgow & RCSEd and RCS England as well as the highly regarded FFD (ORTHO) (Fellowship in Orthodontics) RCSI. Additionally, Dr Khalid is a board-certified orthodontist, making him one of the highest qualified professionals in his field in Ireland. 

Treatments offered

Dr Khalid is registered on the Specialist List in Orthodontics with the Dental Council of Ireland, affirming his expertise and dedication to his profession. 

Dr Khalid is also a member of the Orthodontics Society of Ireland, the European Orthodontics Society, and the American Association of Orthodontists. Additionally, he holds the esteemed title of Fellow of the World Federation of Orthodontists, highlighting his commitment to excellence and international recognition in orthodontics. 

Outside of work, Dr Khalid is passionate about football, playing up to four times a week, and is an avid supporter of Liverpool FC. 

Training and qualifications

BDS (NUI), MFDS (RCSI), MSc (ULon), MOrth (RCSEd), FDSOrth (RCSEd)

Dr O’Mahony qualified as a dentist from University College Cork in 2003. Following this he worked in general dental practice, children’s hospital dentistry and oral and maxillofacial surgery. 

He was accepted onto the orthodontic specialist training programme at King’s College London and qualified with a master’s degree in orthodontics in 2010. He subsequently undertook further advanced orthodontic training to hospital consultant level and holds both a Membership and Fellowship in Orthodontics from the Royal College of Surgeons. 

He is a registered orthodontic specialist with the Irish Dental Council and a member Clinician of the Irish and European Orthodontic societies. John has presented orthodontic research at international conferences and currently provides academic peer review for the European Journal of Orthodontics. 

Treatments offered

Dr O’Mahony has a broad range of orthodontic experience and a special interest in the treatment of buried or missing teeth and jaw abnormalities. In addition to specialist practice, he currently teaches orthodontics on the master’s programme at Trinity College Dublin.

Dr Meena Durai, BDS, Dip. PCDRCSI, MFDRCSI.

Training and qualifications

Dr Meena graduated from “The Tamil Nadu Dr.M.G.R Medical University”, Chennai, India in 2001. Meena earned a MFDRCSI, Dip. PCDRCSI from The Royal College of Surgeons. She has been practicing dentistry in Ireland since 2008. She joined Smiles Dental in 2016 and finished Six Month Smiles, C Fast and Invisalign Orthodontic courses. She enjoys all aspects of General Dentistry and She has special interest in Root canal treatment, Crowns, Bridges and Cosmetic dentistry.

She is continuously attending Various Post Graduate Dental Training Courses to keep her knowledge up-to date with all the new techniques and advancements in Dentistry. She is also excellent at treating nervous patients.

Treatments offered

She is a qualified provider of Invisalign Clear Aligners and Clear Braces in Ireland.

BDS, MSc

Training and qualifications

Dr. Fernanda Roese Mesquita is a dedicated general dentist with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) and a Master of Science (MSc) degree. She graduated in 2005, having studied at PUC-RS in Brazil and Fernando Pessoa University in Portugal.

Treatments offered

Fernanda has a special interest in Invisalign, C-fast, preventive orthodontics, and periodontics.

Since joining the Smiles Dental / Bupa Dental Care team in 2018, she has demonstrated a compassionate approach to patient care, treating each person with genuine understanding, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and comfortable at every stage of their dental journey.

Fluent in both English and Portuguese, Fernanda values clear communication and trust with her patients.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, creating lasting memories, and cherishing every moment together.

Training and qualifications

Dr Konstancja graduated from Wroclaw Medical University in Poland in 2017. While studying dentistry, she received the ‘Best Student’ award twice due to her academic achievements. During her studies she completed three international practicums in both Dublin and Budapest.

Before relocating to Ireland and joining Smiles Dental Grand Canal team in 2018, Dr Norman practised general dentistry in Poland.

Treatments offered

Dr Konstancja offers a full range of preventative and restorative dental procedures.

She is also a certified provider of Invisalign treatment, Enlighten whitening and mini smile makeovers. She takes a special interest in cosmetic dentistry, constantly training her skills in Ireland and abroad to make sure she brings out the best in her patients’ naturally beautiful smiles.

Dr Norman’s priority is to create a calm and relaxed atmosphere during appointments and make her patients feel comfortable and at ease. She believes in providing quality care to every patient.

In her free time, Dr Konstancja enjoys yoga, piano and travelling.