Dr Alexys Ward
I am Alexys Ward and I am the principal dentist at The Happy Tooth. I have graduated from Sydney University with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery and since graduating I have completed over 40 additional courses in advanced dentistry.
The Hunter has always been my home. I grew up on a small farm outside Maitland and now live on a small farm outside Cessnock. As a family, we bred cattle and sometimes exhibited them at shows including Cessnock and Sydney. Outside dentistry, I am passionate about animals and gardening.
Since graduating in 2003 I have practised dentistry in both Sydney and the Hunter Valley. The city experience has allowed me to gain expertise in advanced dental techniques using the latest generation equipment and technology. I have used this experience to design and build my dream practice in Cessnock.
The Happy Tooth has been fitted out with equipment of the 21st century to give you the best possible dental care, I have sought out top class equipment and facilities. I want you to have what I would want in dental treatment- treatment that looks great, feels great and lasts as long as possible. I have always adhered to the philosophy of, ‘if you are going to do something, do it well and always give it your best’.
Dr Alexys Ward and family
Dr Alexys Ward and Adam Elbourne
Dr Andrew Murphy
Hi my name is Andrew Murphy. I hold a Degree in Biochemistry from Dublin University, and a Bachelor of Dental Surgery from the University of Liverpool Dental Hospital. After graduating in Dentistry I returned to the 'Emerald Isle' to work in private practice for a number of years.
En route to Australia in 2010 I worked a term as a volunteer in India where my skills in oral surgery were particularly appreciated. I’ve subsequently worked in the private practice in cosmopolitan Brisbane before joining the wonderful team at The Happy Tooth in August 2012.
My special dental interests include root canal treatments (stemming from research studies as an undergraduate), cosmetic dentistry and providing what is known as 'evidence based dentistry' thus using the most up to date material and modern techniques for patient treatments.
In my spare time I can be found exploring the many cellar doors or perhaps at the beach surfing and kite surfing. I look forward to us meeting and that you can experience the modern and very friendly atmosphere here at The Happy Tooth.
Dr Heather Oesterheld
Hi, my name is Heather and I am one of the dentists here at The Happy Tooth. I have a Bachelor of Health Science and I completed my Doctor of Dental Medicine both at the University of Sydney, where I graduated in 2020.
I have lived in Sydney all my life until I started practicing with The Happy Tooth in Muswellbrook and Scone, where I thoroughly enjoyed getting a taste of the country life and the Hunter Valley wines. I subsequently moved to working with the wonderful team at Cessnock Happy Tooth at the start of 2022.
I enjoy providing quality dental care to my patients with all the modern materials and technology the Happy Tooth holds. Away from the clinic I spend my time swimming, running and hopefully one of these days, surfing as well.
I look forward to caring for you and the whole family along with our very experienced and friendly staff.
Dr Rachel Kwon
Hi, my name is Rachel and I am one of the newest Dentists here at The Happy Tooth. I started here at the beginning of 2023.
I grew up in Korea and moved to Brisbane in 2004. I earned a Bachelor of Nursing and the worked full-time at Brisbane’s Royal Women’s Hospital for a few years as a registered Nurse before deciding to pursue Dentistry. I studied at Griffith University on the Gold Coast where I received my masters of Dentistry in 2022.
I really enjoy all aspects of general dentistry and like to focus on a holistic approach to patient treatment, with emphasis on minimally invasive and preventative dentistry.
Outside of work, I love travelling, road trips, fitness, catching up with friends and spending time with my family. I would love to welcome you to the Happy Tooth where we offer modern dentistry.
Jon Pride – Dental 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.
Gemma Kennedy – Dental Therapist
Hi, my name is Gemma and I am a registered Dental Therapist who is able to assist you to care for your teeth until you turn 25. After graduating in 1982, my first job was in Cessnock and since then I have worked on the Mid North Coast, Sydney, Darwin, and remote Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory and most recently in Western Melbourne.
I am now back in Cessnock, at The Happy Tooth, living my passion, which is to assist youth and parents through their oral health care journey. I have been deeply involved in the Australian Dental and Oral Health Therapists Association for 12 years now.
In my spare time I love playing with my Grandchildren and my Samoyed dog, Marlee, as well as gardening, walking and golf. I look forward to meeting with you!
Bronwyn Coates – Dental Therapist/Hygienist
Hi, my name is Bronwyn and I am one of the dental therapist and hygienists here at The Happy Tooth. I grew up in Cessnock only to leave and follow a career in the Dental field which spans over 30+ years (yes I’m that old!)
I graduated in 2001 in Dental Therapy from the College of Dental Therapy at Westmead in Sydney and Dental Hygiene from Melbourne University in 2004.
Since then I have worked in remote locations in the Northern Rivers area in public health and multiple private general practices and specialist practices in Melbourne, Sydney and Newcastle. I have also volunteered in Vietnam with the AVVRG - Australia Vietnam Volunteers Resource Group as part of the South Australian Dental Group treating 6-12 year old children and have spent time away volunteering with Camp Quality.
I love caring for a variety of ages and managing complex behaviours and very anxious patients. I am so passionate about educating my patients as individuals and strive to help them achieve the best possible outcomes at every visit.
I enjoy living back in Cessnock and spending time with my family, my two dogs and the beautiful Hunter Valley.
Yvette Leclair – Dental Hygienist
Hi there! My name is Yvette and I am the Dental Hygienist here at The Happy Tooth.
I have been working in the dental industry for almost 20 years. First as a Dental Assistant and then on completion of The Bachelor of Oral Health in 2016 at Newcastle University, as a Dental Hygienist.
I value a holistic view towards health and enjoy educating my patients about how the health of our mouths is so relevant to our overall health.
I am gentle and friendly and am always happy to have a good chat with you.
I hope to meet you soon at The Happy Tooth!
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