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Meet our wonderful team!

We’re so proud of our friendly and welcoming team at The Dental and Implant Clinic. Our exceptional dentists, hygienists, dental nurses and receptionists work closely together to bring you the highest standards of care and the best possible results. Trust our highly motivated and supportive team to help you achieve the beautiful and healthy smile you deserve. Book your appointment today – we’re looking forward to meeting you!

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Our Dentists

Dr Jonathan Murphy

GDC: 74959
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Dr Jonathan Murphy

Specialist in Prosthodontics
GDC: 74959

Jonathan qualified from Guy’s Hospital in 1998. Over the next few years, he gained further experience in hospital departments and general dentistry, before starting specialist training in prosthodontics in 2001. He achieved specialist status and was placed on the Specialist Register in Prosthodontics – the science and art of replacing missing teeth by using implants, bridges, dentures and crowns.

Jonathan set up an implant referral practice in Haywards Heath and Hove, treating patients with advanced and complex cases with the latest techniques and materials. He then decided to move his work closer to home and his young family, and took over The Dental and Implant Clinic Southbourne.

Outside of work, Jonathan enjoys cycling and sailing with his family and is slowly restoring a 1955 2CV.

Dr Nicola Ballard

GDC: 73481
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Dr Nicola Ballard

Dentist
GDC: 73481

Nicola’s dental journey began at the prestigious Guy’s Hospital Dental School, University of London, where she qualified in 1997. Her commitment to excellence led her to become a member of the Dental Surgery Faculty of the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons (Glasgow) in 2000.

She gained invaluable experience working in oral and maxillofacial surgery within the hospital system before transitioning to general practice in 2000. Having nearly completed a Diploma and started an MSc in Orthodontics, she will provide Invisalign treatment to patients and will be able to provide fixed orthodontic treatment for children in the future. Nicola’s diverse background has given her a unique skill set and a deep understanding of complex dental needs.

When she’s not in the clinic, Nicola enjoys spending quality time with her family and sailing.

Dr Simon Jones

GDC: 69072
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Dr Simon Jones

Dentist
GDC: 69072

Simon grew up locally and spent his childhood in Warblington.

He qualified as a dentist from the Royal London Hospital Medical College in 1993. He continued his training in the hospital service for two years, becoming a Senior House Officer in maxillofacial surgery.

After taking a year out to backpack around the world, Simon settled into dental practices around London, Brighton and then back to the Chichester area. He believes in providing excellent all-round care for his patients, getting to know them and delivering the best service possible.

Simon is married to Ritu, an orthodontist, and loves spending time with her and their two daughters. Any other free time is occupied by his love of photography, music and movies.

Our Hygienists

Helen Pickard

GDC: 3336
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Helen Pickard

Hygienist
GDC: 3336

Helen qualified in 1987 from the University of Bristol Dental Hospital, where she won the Tutor’s Prize.

She has worked in both general practices and a specialist periodontal practice for many years. Helen has a wealth of experience in treating patients with general maintenance challenges and more complicated gum problems. She has a friendly approach and loves helping her patients achieve their optimum oral health.

Helen lives with her husband, her cat, and her border collie, who is aptly named Floss! She has two grown-up children and four grandchildren who she loves looking after when asked. During the lockdown in Spring 2020, Helen developed a talent for watercolouring and enjoys doing this in her spare time.

Kirstie Hutchings

GDC: 192890
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Kirstie Hutchings

Hygienist
GDC: 192890

Kirstie qualified from Portsmouth Dental Academy in 2010 with a BSc (Hons) degree in dental hygiene and dental therapy.

Since qualifying, Kirstie has worked within both private and NHS dental settings and particularly enjoys helping patients overcome their dental fears and anxieties.

Between 2019-2024, Kirstie chaired the southern regional group of the ‘British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy’, whereby she hosted well-attended dental conferences which provided quality continual professional development for her fellow dental care professionals.

Outside of the surgery, Kirstie enjoys her time with her husband and two young daughters, Bella and Poppy. They love going to the theatre, watching movies, and baking.

Dani Gardiner

Hygienist
GDC: 284586

Dani joined the dental world in 2018 as a dental nurse. She then graduated from the University of Portsmouth as a Dental Hygiene Therapist. Dani is passionate about supporting patients and preventing oral diseases through education and tailored care.

Outside of the clinic, she enjoys exercise, travelling, and spending time walking her British Bulldog.

Our Nurses

Danielle Finnegan

GDC: 221806
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Danielle Finnegan

Nurse
GDC: 221806

Danielle qualified as a dental nurse in 2011, and has worked mostly in the local area ever since. She enjoys helping the patients feel at ease during their treatment, and likes to make sure their visit to the practice is as pleasant as possible.

Danielle has been Jonathan’s nurse for over five years and assists him in all procedures, including dental implants.

Outside of work, Danielle has two children who are now both at school, freeing up some spare time to allow her to enjoy catching up with friends and going to the gym.

Sarah Hayden

Nurse
GDC: 117700

Sarah has worked as a dental nurse for over 30 years. In this time, she has taught student dental nurses and has been an examiner for the NEBDN. She has also worked in general practice.

Sarah also holds a postgraduate qualification in Education, Dental Radiography and Oral Health.

When she is not at work, Sarah enjoys baking and spending time with her husband and six grandchildren.

Julie Nugent

Nurse
GDC: 149888

Julie is a registered dental nurse with over 40 years of experience working in general and specialist practices. She believes in putting the patients’ needs and well-being first, helping them have a relaxed and positive experience at the practice.

When she’s not at work, Julie likes to spend time with her friends and family, especially her granddaughter who she regularly looks after during the week. She also enjoys the theatre, opera, cinema, and going on dog walks with her energetic sprocker, Liffey.

Our Receptionists

Janet Ayling

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Janet Ayling

Receptionist

Janet has been a dental receptionist for over thirteen years. Before that, she worked in retail for many years at a senior level, which gave her the opportunity to meet a variety of people, some of whom have become her good friends!

When she’s not at work, Janet spends most of her time with her two grown-up daughters and four grandchildren. She also enjoys looking after her garden and watching a good movie.

Jane Guy

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Jane Guy

Receptionist

Jane has worked in dentistry for over 20 years and loves the fact that every day at the practice is different. She really enjoys talking to the patients and making sure they are well looked after.

Jane is married with two grown-up children and has four grandsons and one great grandson! When she’s not at work, she enjoys gardening, cooking and going on holiday.

Julie Pattle

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Julie Pattle

Receptionist

Julie has been in dentistry for over 40 years as a nurse and practice manager, with qualifications in Dental Anaesthetics and Radiography. She now enjoys meeting the patients and listening to all their fascinating stories!

When at home, she is happiest taking long country walks with her working cocker spaniel and spending time with her grandson and family.