Meet Our Team
Our dentists and support staff are the heart of Happy Tooth. Each member of our team brings experience, genuine care, and a commitment to making your dental visit comfortable and successful.
Our Dentists
Our dentists are experienced in all aspects of family dentistry, from routine care and preventive treatment to cosmetic dentistry, restorative work, and emergency care. They’re continually updating their skills and knowledge to bring you the latest in modern dental practice.
Our Dental Team
Beyond our dentists, our dental hygienists, dental assistants, and reception staff work together to ensure every patient feels welcomed, informed, and looked after from the moment you call until you leave our practice.
Please feel free to call us on 02 4936 2011 to meet the team or ask any questions about our practice.
Happy Tooth is committed to ongoing professional development and continuing education to deliver the highest standard of care to the Lower Hunter Valley community.
Our Team

Dr. David Ward
Owner & Principal Dentist
Dr. David Ward graduated from Charles Sturt University in 2014 with a Bachelor of Dental Science and has been with the practice since 2015. David is passionate about making every patient feel comfortable using the latest dental technology, ensuring each visit is as pleasant as possible. Davids' focus is on Orthdontics, prioritising not only aesthetic outcomes but healthy ones as well, if you are interested in airway conscious treatment book a consult today.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Dental Science (Charles Sturt University, 2014)

Dr. Mitchell Wheeler
Dentist
Originally from Bathurst, Dr. Mitchell Wheeler studied at Charles Sturt University's Orange campus. He is motivated by the opportunity to improve his patients' confidence and oral health self-esteem, bringing an active and enthusiastic approach to every appointment. Mitchell has further training on Implant rehabilitation of missing teeth and is professional in his approach to your care.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Dental Science (Charles Sturt University)

Dr. Dharshan Sriranjan
Dentist
Dr. Dharshan Sriranjan holds degrees from both the University of Sydney and Charles Sturt University. He brings a broad perspective to dentistry with a philosophy centred on continual learning and growth, always seeking the best outcomes for his patients. A keen eye for detail lends itself to his cosmetic work where he focuses on aesthetic veneers in composite resin and porcelain.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Applied Science (University of Sydney)
- Bachelor of Dental Science (Charles Sturt University)

Paige Tierney
Owner & Oral Health Therapist
Paige has been part of the Happy Tooth team since 2015, progressing from dental assistant to Oral Health Therapist after graduating from Charles Sturt University in 2022. She is dedicated to creating a comfortable, judgment-free environment for every patient and is a favorite of all the kids. She has expanded into oral myology to support correct growth and development in all patients but especially children.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Oral Health (Charles Sturt University, 2022)

Jon Pride
Dental Prosthetist
Jon Pride is our visiting dental prosthetist with extensive experience in dental technology and prosthetics. A recipient of the Phil Harris Award for best student, Jon previously taught implant-retained dentures at Randwick TAFE and brings specialist expertise in dentures and dental prosthetics.
Qualifications
- Associate Diploma in Dental Technology (Randwick TAFE, 1999)
- Diploma in Dental Technology
- Advanced Diploma in Dental Prosthesis (2006)
Meet Our Team in Person
We'd love to meet you! Book an appointment today or visit us at our Kurri Kurri practice. Our friendly team is ready to help you with all your dental needs.
