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mydentist, Avante Dental Centre, Stockton-on-Tees Dentist in Stockton-on-Tees

Meet the team at mydentist, Avante Dental Centre, Stockton-on-Tees

Your practice team

  • Tracey Featherstone Practice Manager

    GDC No: 122781

  • Kimberley Mulgrew Treatment Co-ordinator

    GDC No: 246051

Your clinicians

  • Dr Ana Ionescu
    Dr Ana Ionescu Implantologist Qualified from: BDS Newcastle University 2017 GDC No: 274981

    Dr Ana Ionescu qualified from Newcastle University in 2017 and has developed a strong reputation for delivering advanced, patient-focused dental care. She has a special interest in dental implants, periodontal microsurgery, and complex restorative dentistry, with a focus on minimally invasive techniques that restore function, enhance aesthetics, and achieve long-lasting results. Ana completed her dental implant training with Waterfront Dental in 2021 and became a Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in 2022. She has continued to advance her expertise through further specialist training, including qualifying as a Master Clinician in Advanced Surgical Procedures in Periodontology and Implant Dentistry at the renowned Hurzeler and Zuhr Dental Education Institute in Munich. She has also undertaken training in Immediate Full Arch Loading at The Campbell Academy, enabling suitable patients to benefit from full smile transformations in a single day. Ana accepts referrals for a wide range of treatments, including dental implants, implant-retained dentures such as All-on-4 and All-on-6, sinus augmentation, bone grafting, and soft tissue grafting. Her patient-centred approach focuses on restoring comfort, function, and confidence, helping patients enjoy meaningful improvements in both their oral health and overall quality of life.

  • Dr Mihai Neacsu
    Dr Mihai Neacsu GDP Private Qualified from: DDM Bucharest 2001 GDC No: 133099

    Dr Mihai Neacsu graduated from Carol Davila University in Bucharest in 2000 and successfully ran his own private dental practice there for eight years. In 2008, he relocated to the UK to further advance his career, where he has built a strong reputation for his calm manner and patient‑centred approach. Mihai believes dentistry is a unique combination of art, technology, and psychology, and he is dedicated to ensuring every patient feels comfortable, relaxed, and fully informed throughout their treatment journey. His main areas of expertise are root canal treatment (endodontics) and restorative dentistry. He holds a Master of Science in Endodontology with Distinction from the University of Chester (SimplyEndo) and is recognised as a Dentist with Enhanced Skills in Endodontics (DwESE), accepting referrals for complex root canal treatments from surrounding practices. In recognition of his clinical excellence and outstanding patient care, Mihai was shortlisted as one of the five finalists for the mydentist Dentist of the Year Award in 2025. Outside of dentistry, Mihai enjoys playing tennis and padel, and spending time on DIY projects where he can put his practical skills to the test.

  • Mr Stephen Wears
    Mr Stephen Wears GDP Private Qualified from: Diploma Clinical Dental Technology Royal College of Surgeons Of England 2011 Transferred from DTA Voluntary Register GDC No: 130497

    Stephen Wears is a highly experienced Clinical Dental Technician with many years of expertise in denture design and manufacture. Throughout his career, he has worked in several prestigious dental laboratories, gaining extensive knowledge and developing a reputation for producing high-quality, natural-looking dentures tailored to each patient’s individual needs. Stephen completed two and a half years of specialist training at the Royal College of Surgeons, qualifying as a Clinical Dental Technician and enabling him to provide direct patient care as well as expert denture craftsmanship. As a partner in his own dental laboratory in the North East, he combines technical precision with a patient-focused approach to create bespoke dentures that deliver excellent fit, function, comfort, and appearance. Stephen personally assesses every patient and takes the time to understand their preferences, goals, and budget before recommending the most suitable treatment options. Known for his friendly and approachable manner, he is passionate about helping patients regain confidence in their smile and enjoy a positive treatment experience from start to finish.

  • Dr Aghajan Movsumov
    Dr Aghajan Movsumov GDP Qualified from: Zobarsta Riga Stradiņš University 2021 GDC No: 322888

    Dr Aghajan Movsumov is a dedicated dentist with a strong interest in restorative dentistry, surgical extractions, and endodontics. He graduated with distinction from Riga Stradiņš University in Latvia and has since built a reputation for providing high-quality care with a focus on precision, compassion, and patient comfort. Known for his calm and approachable manner, Dr Movsumov is committed to helping patients feel relaxed, informed, and confident throughout their treatment journey. He believes that successful dentistry is built on trust, clear communication, and personalised care, taking the time to understand each patient’s needs and goals before creating tailored treatment plans. Passionate about continuous learning and innovation, Dr Movsumov has a keen interest in the role of science and technology in modern dentistry, particularly the growing impact of artificial intelligence in improving treatment outcomes and patient care. He is dedicated to combining evidence-based dentistry with the latest advancements to deliver excellent clinical results. Outside of practice, Dr Movsumov enjoys staying active at the gym, playing chess, and exploring creative interests such as animation design. His philosophy centres on building strong foundations, embracing lifelong learning, and pursuing excellence in everything he does.

  • Dr Alina Cockill
    Dr Alina Cockill GDP Qualified from: DMD Oradea 2019 GDC No: 288332

    Alina graduated from the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy in Oradea in 2018, where she also earned a Master’s Degree in Public Health Care Management. She has worked as a general dental practitioner in private practice and as a Manager for HH Resources and Dental Education, gaining experience in both clinical and administrative aspects of dentistry.After moving to the UK in 2019, Alina began practicing in North Yorkshire, focusing on orthodontics, particularly clear aligner therapy, as well as cosmetic and restorative dentistry. She is committed to continuous learning, ensuring her patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments.Alina believes dentistry is the perfect blend of science, engineering, and artistry. She strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable and cared for, with their smiles as the best reward for her work.

  • Dr Jamie Garbutt
    Dr Jamie Garbutt GDP Qualified from: BDS Newcastle University 2021 GDC No: 296350

    Dr Jamie Garbutt is a dentist with a strong passion for dental education. Alongside clinical practice, Dr Garbutt is involved in mentoring and training the next generation of dental professionals. He has served as a Clinical Placement Supervisor for Teesside University Dental Hygiene School since 2023, educating and supporting students as they develop their clinical skills. Additionally, Dr Garbutt is an NHS mentor for international dental graduates, helping clinicians transition into UK practice. His commitment to education reflects a dedication not only to dentistry but also to the growth and support of the wider dental community. Born and raised in the Stockton‑on‑Tees area, Dr Garbutt graduated from Newcastle University in 2021 and is committed to working in his home town, providing the best and most up‑to‑date treatment for his patients. He values building strong relationships with those he cares for, helping them maintain their oral health and confidence. In his spare time, he enjoys playing golf, padel, and relaxing with a good pint of Guinness.

  • Dr Michal Polubinski
    Dr Michal Polubinski GDP Qualified from: Lek Stom Medical University of Białystok 1994 GDC No: 85175

    Michal qualified as a dentist at the Medical University of Bialystok in 1994. He moved to the UK in 2005 and after working in various practices in the South of England and in Scotland, he decided to settle in North Yorkshire. Michal is a very experienced dentist and loves all aspects of dentistry from general dental treatments to complex treatments and currently works at 2 mydentist practices in Middlesbrough and Stockton.Michal developed an interest in dental implants and has completed his general and advanced dental practical courses in dental implants in 2014. In his spare time, Michal enjoys sailing and also loves to ski and swim.

  • Dr Neelam Rama
    Dr Neelam Rama GDP Qualified from: BDS European University Cyprus 2025 GDC No: 331130

    Dr Neelam Rama graduated with a dental degree from the European University of Cyprus in 2025. Prior to studying dentistry, she obtained a degree in Biomedical Sciences from Queen’s University Belfast, where she developed a strong foundation in science and a growing interest in patient care. Dentistry allows Neelam to combine her passion for science with her love of helping people. Neelam finds it incredibly rewarding to support patients in improving their oral health and to help them feel more confident about their smiles. She believes that good dental care is not only about treating teeth, but also about ensuring patients feel comfortable, listened to, and well cared for at every visit. Neelam is committed to continually developing her skills and knowledge to provide high-quality care. Her aim is to create a positive experience for every patient and help them achieve a healthier mouth and a smile they feel proud of.

  • Alison Hodgson
    Alison Hodgson Hygienist Qualified from: Diploma Dental Hygiene Newcastle University 2003 GDC No: 6386

    Alison qualified in 2003 from Newcastle Dental Hospital University. She worked at a busy NHS practice with anxious patients and private practices over the years. At present she works in an independent private practice as well as {my}dentist Avante Dental Care. Alison is also a clinical supervisor at Teesside University supporting students through their hygiene course.Her passion is periodontal treatment, and she still enjoys making a difference whilst ensuring the patient has a pleasant experience whilst in her care.Outside of work she enjoys family time at the caravan with dog walks & paddle boarding and playing her saxophone.

  • Alla Mallows
    Alla Mallows Therapist Qualified from: Registered under s36C of the Dentists Act 1984 2022 Diploma in Dental Nursing Level 3 QCF City & Guilds 2015 GDC No: 261451

    Alla Mallows is a highly experienced Dental Hygienist and Therapist with more than 30 years of experience in the dental profession. She first qualified in Russia as a Dental Hygienist and Therapist in 1993 before further advancing her education and qualifying as a dentist in 2003, giving her a broad and comprehensive understanding of patient care. Since beginning practice in the UK in 2020, Alla has worked across a variety of NHS and private dental settings, building on her extensive international experience. Prior to relocating to the North East, she worked in practices throughout Manchester, treating patients with a wide range of dental needs and backgrounds. Alla has a particular interest in caring for nervous patients, individuals with additional needs, and patients with dental implants. Her calm, compassionate, and patient-centred approach helps put patients at ease and ensures a positive treatment experience. She provides a range of treatments including professional cleaning, fillings, children's extractions, oral health education, and preventive care, helping patients of all ages achieve and maintain healthy smiles.

  • Anu Gurung
    Anu Gurung Therapist Qualified from: BSc (Hons) Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy Teesside University 2023 National Diploma in Dental Nursing NEBDN 2018 GDC No: 279928

    Anu is a dental hygienist and therapist registered with the General Dental Council (GDC). She helps with gum treatment, educating patients about their oral health and doing procedures to repair the teeth such as using tooth-coloured fillings. Anu graduated from Teesside University in 2023 with qualifications in both dental hygiene and dental therapy. Before that she worked as a dental nurse, gaining experience and learning from the experienced dentists at {my}dentist. Her goal is to make her patients’ teeth look and feel great. She's enthusiastic about learning and improving so she can provide patients with the best advice and treatments. Her aim is to advance her career by being part of a team that’s always brainstorming new ideas and methods to ensure her patients are happy and have healthy teeth.

  • Emma Walker
    Emma Walker Therapist Qualified from: BSc (Hons) Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy Teesside University 2022 NVQ L3 Oral Health Care: Dental Nursing & Independent Assessment City & Guilds 2007 GDC No: 155483

    Emma has lived in the North East since 2016 but was born and raised in Wallasey, near Liverpool. She started her career in dentistry as a dental nurse at the age of 17. She spent 15 years in this role and raised two children. In 2018, she enrolled on an online, nine-month Access Course to the Health Sciences, gaining 45 credits at distinction, which helped her gain entry into University to study Dental Hygiene and Therapy. In July 2022 she gained a first class honours degree and is having her dissertation published in 2023. Emma has plans to go onto complete a PhD in Dental Research in the next few years. In her spare time, Emma loves to spend time with her family and enjoys horse riding, keeping fit and socialising with friends.

Dental professionals must be registered with the GDC and meet high standards. Find us on the register: www.gdc-uk.org