Dental practice sinks teeth into growth after revamp

A dental practice says it is feeling smiles better after a six-figure refurbishment paved the way for staff expansion.

Union Quay Dental has undergone structural and technology upgrades.

Co-owners and principal dentists Jarlath McAteer and Jamie Dury say the investment has “significantly increased clinical capacity” and leaves the North Tyneside practice primed to add clinicians and support staff to its 32-strong team.

The work included new dental chairs complete with electric motors and intra‑oral cameras, and the installation of digital scanners and X‑ray systems across the site.

The practice, based on North Shields’ Fish Quay, is also now equipped with an occlusal analyser, allowing clinicians to assess patients’ bite dynamics in real time, and a new digital workflow system.

Work was carried out by North East firms including project manager BH Projects and Prodrive Shopfitting, based in Stokesley, North Yorkshire.

Jarlath, who, alongside Jamie, bought the practice – which operates out of the Grade II-listed Richard Irvin building – in 2025, said: “This was far more than a cosmetic refurbishment.

“The building was completely stripped back and rebuilt internally, including new drainage, full rewiring and modern digital infrastructure.

“As a listed building, the project presented some challenges, but the investment ensures we now have facilities and technology that match the high standard of care we want to provide.”

Jamie, who like Jarlath trained at Newcastle University, added: “Our aim is to build a modern independent dental practice that combines technology with a highly skilled clinical team.

“We are continuing to develop specialist expertise, and are actively expanding our team to support growing patient demand.”

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