A dental clinic launched just eight months ago has been named Best New Dental Practice in the South.

Smile Stories in Bournemouth returned in triumph after winning the title at the Private Dentistry Awards held at London’s Park Plaza Westminster Bridge.

The clinic, co-owned by Zak Kara and Gareth Edwards, only officially opened its doors in March after acquiring Castle Lane Dental Care in Bournemouth.

Aged 15, Gareth spent a fortnight’s work experience at the practice, little knowing he would return 18 years later as Co-owner.

Gareth said: “It’s an incredibly proud moment to be announced as the Best New Dental Clinic in the South at the Private Dentistry Awards.

“To be recognised and given this amazing accolade by some of the best people in the industry means the world and we are all totally humbled.

“Massive thanks goes to our incredible team and lovely clients who have supported us and helped make what Smile Stories has become today.”

The Private Dentistry Awards recognise the highest level of dental care in the UK.

Each finalist is shortlisted based on exceptional patient care, short waiting times and the highest level of dentistry.

The ‘Best New Practice Award’ is given to just three clinics in the whole country, split by region (North, London, South).

The look, and feel, of Smile Stories is not like a stereotypical dental clinic.

Instead it’s more akin to a relaxing bar or comfortable café.

According to the website of Smile Stories:

“No weird white coats.

“No old-school waiting room.

“No fire-breathing dragon receptionists.

“No ‘smells like the dentist’.

“And absolutely NO lectures or telling you off. Promise.”

Gareth and Zak have both worked in dentistry for nearly two decades.

Gareth, 33, pictured left, grew up in Bournemouth and attended Bournemouth School.

After qualifying with honours at Cardiff University in 2012, he lived in Manchester for five years where he worked in a mixed NHS/private role.

Gareth moved back to Bournemouth in 2018.

He said: “I don’t believe in fate –  you make your own fate – but it certainly feels very apt that my first ever experience in the workplace was in this very dental practice over 15 years ago.

“If I could have told my 15-year-old self that I would one day own this practice with one of my close friends, I’m not sure I would have believed it!”

Zak, 35, pictured right, studied dentistry at Sheffield University where he was the Dental Student President for three years.

He spent time in Madagascar on a voluntary dental project where he met some Australian dentists who persuaded him to move Down Under.

It was while in Australia that he became engrossed in changing perceptions of dentistry.

Zak continued his mission, and further training, in the USA and finally back home to the UK.