Meet Our Team

Dr Leo Duran

BDS 1994 (Bogota) Statutory Exam 2008

GDC No. 164179

Leo is the Principal Dentist at Ferndale House Dental Practice. He originally qualified as a Dentist in 1994 in Bogotá, Colombia, receiving an international inter-universities award for his graduate thesis. His early career included working as a Senior House Officer in a hospital’s restorative department, where he gained extensive experience in conservative dentistry and prosthodontics under the guidance of consultants. Leo then transitioned to General Dentistry in private practice, focusing particularly on cosmetic dentistry.

Upon moving to the UK, Leo completed a diploma in Dental Practice Management and, in 2008, successfully registered as a dentist with the GDC after passing the statutory examinations. Throughout his career, he has pursued various accreditations in smile restorative dentistry and is a certified Invisalign provider, specialising in invisible braces. With over 20 years in the dental profession, Leo is known for his meticulous approach, always striving for the best outcomes for his patients.

Dedicated to excellence, Leo continually invests in the latest dental technology to enhance patient care. He believes in creating a warm, welcoming environment built on trust, ensuring patients feel comfortable and confident in their treatment.

Outside of dentistry, Leo enjoys drawing, oil painting, and sculpting.

Dr Simon Oldfield

BDS BSc (Hons)DipRes MJDF RCS (Eng)

GDC No. 272227

Simon is an Associate Dentist at Ferndale House Dental Practice, with extensive studies at both the University of Bath and Barts and the London SMD. He has a strong background in delivering comprehensive cosmetic treatments, always striving for the best outcomes for his patients.

Simon believes that exceptional dentistry is built on creative thinking, clear communication, and attention to detail. He fosters a collaborative environment where patients are actively involved in their treatment journey, ensuring that their goals and needs are met with the highest quality care. His passion for oral and holistic health drives his approach, helping patients achieve not only beautiful smiles but also long-term dental wellness.

Committed to continuous learning, Simon is a certified provider of clear aligners and braces and has completed his Membership of the Joint Dental Faculties exams. His postgraduate diploma in Restorative Dentistry from the Royal College of Surgeons enables him to provide advanced care in the restoration and replacement of teeth. During university, his research was published in the British Dental Journal, and he was awarded the Dean’s Prize for Research.

Outside of dentistry, Simon is a keen sports enthusiast and enjoys running, cycling, and exploring the outdoors, particularly in the Peak District and Devon.

Dr. Callum Connick

BDS (Dundee) MFDS (RCPSG) MSc Adv. Restorative (Man)

GDC No. 245149

Dr Callum Connick is an experienced and passionate restorative dentist. He holds a BDS from the University of Dundee, MFDS from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, and a Masters in Advanced Restorative Dentistry from the University of Manchester.

He works between private practice and the restorative department at Sheffield Dental Hospital, managing complex cases through strategic treatment planning, advanced restorations, endodontics and jaw joint issues. His modern approach to care includes digital tools such as video reports and 3D cosmetic mock-ups to help patients understand their options.

Callum welcomes both internal and external referrals for Tier 2 restorative and endodontic care. His surgeries are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including an operating microscope, intraoral scanner and diode laser ensuring patients receive high-quality, precision care.

Callum teaches restorative dentistry both locally through the University of Sheffield and internationally with RIPE Global. He is an active member of several study clubs and professional societies, including the British Society of Occlusal Studies and the British Endodontic Society.Callum is committed to preserving and enhancing his patients’ dental health over time, focusing on long-term stability and function.

Dr Ghazala Ahmad-Mear

FDS RCS (Eng) 1990 BDS (London) 1986
Oral Surgeon and Sedationist

GDC No. 61993

Ghazala is a highly experienced Specialist in Oral Surgery with a gentle and caring approach. She qualified as a dentist in 1986 from Guy’s Dental Hospital, London, and has been helping patients for over 30 years. She holds a Fellowship in Dental Surgery from the Royal College of Surgeons of England and has spent 24 years working at Charles Clifford Dental Hospital in Sheffield, treating a wide range of complex cases.

Ghazala has a special interest in caring for patients with medical conditions, such as those on blood thinners or other specialised medications, as well as those needing more complex tooth extractions. She understands that oral surgery can feel daunting and takes the time to carefully plan treatments, ensuring the safest and most comfortable experience for every patient.

To help make treatment as stress-free as possible, Ghazala also offers conscious sedation for nervous patients and those with complex needs. She is trained in acupuncture and can use it alongside sedation to help patients feel more at ease during procedures.

Above all, Ghazala believes in creating a warm, welcoming, and safe environment where patients feel relaxed and supported. Whether you need a straightforward procedure or more advanced care, she is dedicated to providing the best treatment tailored to your individual needs.

Dr. Iuliana Sofian-Pauliuc

BDS (Seville) 2020 MSC (Chester) 2024
Endodontist (Special Interest)

GDC No. 291803

Dr Iuliana Sofian-Pauliuc is an accomplished endodontist dedicated to preserving natural teeth through minimally invasive treatments. She graduated with honours from the University of Seville in 2020 and has since completed a Master of Science in Endodontology at the University of Chester.

Dr Sofian-Pauliuc has extensive expertise in complex endodontics, endodontic microsurgery, and digitally guided procedures, along with additional skills in oral surgery, implantology, and advanced composite techniques. Based in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, she focuses on achieving the best possible outcomes for her patients by combining advanced techniques with a patient-centred approach.

A strong advocate for evidence-based practice, Dr Sofian-Pauliuc is an active member of the British Endodontic Society, the Spanish Endodontic Society, and the International Federation of Endodontic Associations. She is actively involved in research, with published work on inflammatory cytokines in endodontic diagnosis, and continues to contribute to advancing knowledge in her field.

Passionate about saving teeth, she works closely with her patients, ensuring they are involved in every step of their treatment. Her philosophy is simple: “Prioritising tooth preservation above all.”

Mia Greig

RDH 2005

GDC No. 6654

Mia began her career in dentistry as a dental nurse in the Royal Air Force before qualifying as a Dental Hygienist in 2005. She served in the military for eight years, gaining invaluable experience in high-pressure environments while providing essential dental care to service personnel. After leaving the RAF, she transitioned into civilian dentistry, where she has worked as a dedicated Dental Hygienist for nearly two decades.

With a deep passion for patient care, Mia is committed to promoting excellent oral health and helping patients achieve and maintain healthy, confident smiles. She takes a personalised approach to treatment, ensuring each patient feels at ease while delivering thorough, high-quality hygiene care. Her expertise extends to preventative dentistry, gum health, and tailored oral hygiene plans designed to suit individual needs.

In addition to her work in dental hygiene, Mia is also highly trained in facial aesthetics, offering a range of treatments to enhance not just smiles but overall facial harmony. She is qualified in administering anti-wrinkle treatments (Botox), facial fillers, skin boosters, chemical peels, and mesotherapy, helping patients achieve a refreshed and natural-looking appearance. Her focus is on ethical, safe, and subtle enhancements that complement each person’s unique features.

Outside of her clinical work, Mia balances her career with family life as a mother of three. She is dedicated to continuous professional development, staying up to date with the latest advancements in both dentistry and aesthetics to provide the best possible care for her patients.

Dental Therapist & Facial Aesthetics Practitioner

RDH RDT 2015 Sheffield

GDC No. 212829

Kate began her career in dentistry as a dental nurse before gaining qualifications in Oral Health Education and Radiography. Her passion for patient care led her to qualify in Dental Therapy at the University of Sheffield with distinction. During her studies, she mentored first-year students as a Near Peer Teacher and received a Professionalism Award during a work placement.

Since qualifying, Kate has worked in cosmetic and implant practices across Chesterfield, Nottinghamshire, and Buxton, gaining experience in oral health care, composite fillings, tooth whitening, orthodontic care, and implant care. She is now expanding her skills further by undertaking a course in Restorative and Aesthetic Dentistry, learning the latest techniques in modern dentistry. This advanced training allows her to provide a wider range of treatment options, including more natural and long-lasting restorations, ensuring patients receive the highest standard of care tailored to their individual needs. By refining her skills in restorative treatments, she aims to help patients achieve both functional and aesthetic improvements, restoring confidence in their smiles.

Kate is known for her caring and professional approach, ensuring a comfortable experience for her patients. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends and exploring the countryside with her dog. She looks forward to welcoming you to Ferndale House Dental Practice and helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile.

Practice Manager

GDC No. 173895

Caley Maloney is the Practice Manager at Ferndale House Dental Practice and has been a valued member of the team for over a decade. She began her career in dentistry in 2006 as a dental nurse apprentice and went on to achieve her Level 3 qualification in Oral Healthcare: Dental Nursing in 2007. Caley also gained her certification in intravenous sedation nursing that same year, allowing her to support patients undergoing more complex and challenging treatments.

Caley joined Ferndale House in 2015, originally working closely alongside Mr Willis and later spending many years in surgery with Leo Duran. Her hands-on experience in all aspects of dentistry—from simple fillings to root canal treatments, crowns, and sedation—has given her a deep understanding of both patient care and clinical procedures. With the support of Leo and the wider team, Caley gradually took on more responsibility within the practice, leading her to complete a Level 4 Apprenticeship in Dental Practice Management and an ILM Level 4 Certificate in Leadership and Management in 2024.

Now in her role as Practice Manager, Caley is committed to maintaining the high standards of care Ferndale House is known for. She supports the entire team to ensure patients receive the best possible experience and treatment outcomes. Outside of work, she enjoys holidays, music, and getting stuck into a good book.

Business Manager

GDC No. 285959

Gareth Phillips is the Business Manager at Ferndale House Dental Practice, bringing with him a unique blend of experience in event management, clinical dental care, and marketing. Before entering the dental field, Gareth worked across the UK in event management, organising corporate conferences and social events for a wide range of clients.

His journey into dentistry began in 2015 when he joined a dental implant company, working closely with dentists and technicians and organising training events focused on implant placement. Inspired by the clinical side of dentistry, Gareth went on to gain his qualification in dental nursing, enabling him to work hands-on with patients in a clinical setting. He joined Ferndale House in 2019, initially working in surgery alongside our specialist oral surgeon and later qualifying in sedation nursing. During this time, he also supported the practice with compliance, patient communication, and policy development.

In 2023, Gareth completed a digital marketing course to help further develop the practice’s growth and enhance the patient experience. Now in his role as Business Manager, Gareth focuses on the overall patient journey, communication, and marketing, while also supporting the Practice Manager with compliance. His wide-ranging skill set and commitment to excellence play an important part in the continued success of Ferndale House.