Our Team

Here at Garstang Dental Referral Practice, our friendly, caring and experienced team love changing peoples lives. Please look at the many testimonials we have received to see the impact we have had on patients who have been treated by us.

Our specialists provide treatment in the following branches of dentistry:

  • Removable prosthodontics (dentures) - Finlay Sutton
  • Fixed prosthodontics (crowns, bridges, veneers, composite bonding, dental implants) - Zohaib Ali
  • Orthodontics (tooth straightening) - Rachel Seed
  • Periodontics (gum disease treatment) - Syed Abad
  • Endodontics (root canal treatment) - Shakil Umerji
  • Paediatrics (children’s dentistry) - Hannah Walsh
Dr Finlay Sutton

Dr Finlay Sutton

Specialist in Restorative Dentistry, Prosthodontics, Endodontics and Periodontics
GDC Registration Number 69652
BDS Sheffield, DGDP(UK), MSc, MFDS RCS(Ed), MRD RCS(Ed), PhD, FDS(Rest Dent) RCS(Ed)

I specialise in all aspects of removable prosthodontics (dentures) at the practice. I love creating natural-looking, beautifully functioning dentures that can be life-changing for patients. Recognised as a world leader in removable prosthodontics, I teach dentists and dental technicians globally. Our dentures are crafted to the highest quality standards right here at the practice by Rowan Garstang, whom I consider one of the best in the field.

I qualified as a dentist in 1993 and became a specialist in Restorative Dentistry, Prosthodontics, Periodontics, and Endodontics in 2005. Since 2013, I have focused exclusively on removable prosthodontics, allowing me to become a true expert in this area. My wife, Rachel Seed Specialist in Orthodontist, and I established the practice in 2007.

Rowan and I create high-quality removable dentures that look like natural teeth, but they don't work exactly like them. It takes time and practice to adapt, using neuromuscular control. For dentures to be successful, you need to be committed and willing to learn how to use them. If you put in the effort, they can truly be life-changing. I'm here to support you every step of the way.

If you would like to find out more about my denture teaching/mentorship (for dentists, prosthodontists, dental technicians and clinical dental technicians/denturists) please go to my education website: https://www.finlaysutton.co.uk/

If you would like me to give you beautiful dentures with the best possible fit, please call us on 01995 606091 or email us at reception.garstangdental@portmandental.co.uk

Miss Rachel Seed

Miss Rachel Seed

Specialist in Orthodontics
GDC Registration Number 73436
BDS(Hons) Liverpool, MFGDP(UK), MFDS RCS(Ed), MOrth RCS(Ed), M Dent Sci

I love seeing the gain in confidence and self-esteem that my patients achieve after having orthodontic treatment - it's such a rewarding branch of dentistry to work in!

I have been providing private specialist orthodontic treatment at Garstang Dental Referral Practice since 2012. I undertake treatment for teenagers and children using different type of braces including metal and tooth coloured (clear) fixed braces, Invisalign aligners, functional braces and removable braces. I strive to provide a high level of customer service and clinical care; looking after you from your first to last visit.

I’ve always had a passion for providing orthodontic treatment after having it myself as a teenager - this is what made me decide to become a dentist from the age of 13! I qualified as a dentist in 1997 then spent 8 years working in general dental practice and various hospital departments gaining a broad base of knowledge and experience in different areas of dentistry. Since 2005, I have limited my clinical work to providing orthodontic treatment only. I completed my 3 years full-time specialist orthodontic training in Liverpool and Crewe through the University of Liverpool gaining my specialist qualification in 2008 alongside a Masters in Dental Science, with distinction. Between 2010-2015, I worked as a Specialty Doctor in the orthodontic departments at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary and Royal Preston Hospitals where I was involved in the treatment of patients with complex orthodontic problems. During this time, I was also involved in teaching dental students studying at UCLAN. 

Examples of treatment outcomes and patient feedback can be found on my Instagram page @rachelseedortho      https://www.instagram.com/rachelseedortho

I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile. 

If you would like to discuss the possibility of having orthodontic treatment, please call us on 01995 606091 or email us at reception.garstangdental@portmandental.co.uk

Mr Syed Abad

Mr Syed Abad

Specialist in Periodontics
GDC Registration Number 82787
BDS London, MFDS RCS (Eng), MClinDent, MPerio RCS (Ed)

I am a specialist in periodontics (gum disease) and I love helping my patients keep their natural teeth and dental implants as long as possible. If you are worried about gum disease, wobbly teeth, bad taste or bad breath and are concerned you may end up losing your teeth, then I’m the person for you. I am obsessive about beautiful clean teeth, with daily meticulous cleaning being the bedrock of treating gum disease. I love helping my patients achieve this. I qualified as a dentist in 2003 and became a specialist in periodontics in 2013.

If you are concerned about your gums and would like me to see you, please call us on 01995 606091

Dr Shakil Umerji

Dr Shakil Umerji

Specialist in Endodontics

GDC Registration Number 258059

BDS Glasgow, MFDS RCS(Ed), MEndo RCS(Ed), DDSc(Endo)

I provide specialist Endodontic treatment (root canal treatment) at the practice. This involves both preventing and treating pain and infection associated with teeth. Ultimately, my role is to save teeth that would otherwise end up being extracted. I find it incredibly rewarding to help my patients to preserve their own teeth by providing root canal treatment in a pain-free environment.

I graduated from the University of Glasgow in 2015 and have since developed my experience in general, referral and hospital based practice. I've undertaken a doctorate training programme (DDSc Endodontics) at the University of Liverpool and successfully completed the specialty membership examination in Endodontics (MEndo) in 2021. I am listed on the General Dental Council specialist register in Endodontics and divide my time between specialist practice, as well as teaching students and other dentists.

At Garstang Dental, we take pride in providing the highest standard of care and use only the best for our patients. As such, all endodontic procedures are completed using a dental microscope. We provide a comprehensive endodontic service, including:

  • Consultations and assessments
  • Non-surgical root canal treatment (primary and retreatment)
  • Endodontic microsurgery
  • Management of dento-alveolar trauma
  • Restoration of endodontically treated teeth

If you would like me to provide endodontics for you or your patient, please call us on 01995 606091

Dr Zohaib Ali

Dr Zohaib Ali

Specialist in Prosthodontics
GDC Registration Number 191600
BA, BDentSc Dublin, MFDS RCS(Ed), MDPH, MClinDent (Prosthodontics), MPros RCS(Eng), MPros RCS(Ed)

At Garstang Dental Referral Practice, I provide all aspects of fixed prosthodontics. This includes both the restoration and replacement of damaged or missing teeth. The best part of my job is seeing the confidence boost my patients get after allowing me to rejuvenate their teeth. Repaying the trust my patients place in me is always at the forefront of my mind and I consider this a privilege. I achieve this by meticulously planning every detail before embarking on a treatment plan. As we progress through my patient's treatment, I love seeing their self-confidence increase. I work with some of the brightest and most forward thinking dental technicians in the UK using the latest technology to achieve the best possible outcomes.

I qualified from Dublin, Ireland, in 2009 and have worked in general, hospital and referral practice since. My speciality training in prosthodontics was completed at the world famous Guy's Dental Institute in London where I qualified with a distinction.

If you would like me to provide fixed replacement teeth (fixed prosthodontics using dental implants if needed) for you or your patient, please call us on 01995 606091

Dr Hannah Walsh

Dr Hannah Walsh

Specialist in Paediatric Dentistry
GDC Registration Number 209806
BDS Manchester, BSc(Hons), MFDS RCS(Ed), MPaed RCS(Eng) 

I work part time at Garstang Referral Practice, providing specialist paediatric dentistry. Outside of the practice I work for Blackpool Teaching Hospitals as the lead for Paediatric Dentistry and in my spare time I sit on the executive committee for the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry as the Honorary Membership Secretary. I have a passion for treating children in a caring and friendly environment and in particular I enjoy helping children who are anxious about visiting the dentist. I am committed to providing treatment at the highest level and I find the nature of treating children and young people incredibly rewarding. 

If you would like me to provide specialist paediatric dentistry, please call us on 01995 606091

Claire Clark

Claire Clark

Coordinates the care for Finlay's patients

Qualified Dental Nurse

GDC registration number 150640

Sarah Livesey

Sarah Livesey

Practice Coordinator

Qualified Dental Nurse

GDC registration number 189912

Sarah Schofield

Sarah Schofield

Coordinates the care for Syed's patients

Qualified Dental Nurse

GDC registration number 145376

Rowan Garstang

Rowan Garstang

Dental Technician

GDC registration number 141247

OND Science (Dental Technology, Manchester) 1987
HND Science (Dental Technology) 1991
BSc (Hons) Manchester 2001

Get in touch

Please note that this information will only be used to reply to your enquiry and not stored by the practice.

Deborah's story of her orthodontic treatment

This lady describes how she felt about her teeth before Rachel's orthodontic treatment, why she wanted them straightening and the impact having the treatment has had on her quality of life.

Megan's story of her orthodontic treatment with Rachel

Megan had upper and lower fixed appliances for 9 months.

Nathan's story of his orthodontic treatment with Rachel Seed

Nathan had upper and lower fixed appliances for 12 months.

Alison's testimonial of her treatment at Garstang Dental Referral Practice

Alison was suffering with severe gum disease when she first came to Garstang Dental Referral Practice. After treatment, she says she feels like a different person and her oral health is brilliant.

Delighted patient treated by Rachel using Invisalign clear braces.

Rachel treated this patient with Invisalign. She was delighted with the outcome of the treatment.

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Dear Finlay and Team

Thank you so much for achieving the near impossible and restoring my smile – which has restored my confidence and wellbeing.

The whole experience was exceptional, from the friendliness and care to the empathy you all showed to me.

I am so grateful.

Love to all.

Sylvia

Sylvia

Dear Finlay and Claire

Thank you for your support and kindness during my treatment.

You really show so much care and compassion for your patients.

My appointments were always so friendly and reassuring much more than I have ever experienced with many other dentists.

I was expecting a traumatic experience, but you have both made it totally a great journey.

Keep smiling

Sue B

Dec 2018

Sue

I would just like to say how great you have been with me, making me so relaxed and given what information I wanted as we went along. I’m much more confident in coming to the dentist.

A huge thank you to Finlay for applying his expertise down to the minutest detail in order to create for me the most fabulous, natural-looking, and superb-fitting dentures. Also to Rowan for his exquisite craftsmanship, thus creating these beautiful dentures. And to Clare for her professional part in the process and also for making me feel welcome and relaxed.

Dear Finlay, Rowan, Claire and the entire team

I have filled in the post treatment questionnaire and it looks like I have rushed through it ticking the mostly never questions. Actually, I have really thought about each question carefully and the reason for mostly never answers is because of the amazing professional treatment that I have received at your practice. My old denture was fine, but the new denture is so light and well-fitting and absolutely no problem at all.

Thank you and also thank you for helping me at every stage of the procedure. It has also been a pleasure for me and good to know that you have my best interest at heart.

I would like to add that I was so lucky to end up with Finlay and his team, I don’t think anywhere in the world, I would have had as good a treatment.

Hope all is going well at Weind House.

Best wishes to you all

Helen K

Feb 2019

Helen K

Finlay, Thank you very much for everything… you did a wonderful job.

To Finlay and all the team, Just wanted to say a big thank you for my new front tooth and the fantastic care I received. If I have any problems with my teeth in the future, I will definitely come back for your expertise. Thank you.

Dear Finlay, Rowan, Claire, and the team

Many many thanks for my dentures, they are nothing short of “Technical wizardry”

I have been quite a challenge, but you have met each one with care and expertise, after years of ill fitting dentures and pain, I now have great fitting, natural looking top teeth, a few minor adjustments needed, but all will be well in the end.

Thanks again for the care and kindness shown to me throughout my treatment, I didn’t feel like I was visiting the dentist but like visiting friends.

“Keep changing lives”

Love and kind regards AB

May 2019

Dear Rachel and the team,

After years of feeling self-conscious when it came to my teeth, and a lifetime of not smiling a full smile, I decided to go ahead with searching for an orthodontic treatment. I decided to go to Rachel for my treatment after the wonderful orthodontic work my mother received from her. While feeling desperate to improve my teeth, I was also incredibly reluctant and worried about what the treatment would entail, how they would look throughout, and how long the treatment would take. All these concerns were halted by Rachel’s thorough consultations and the initial treatment plan I received from her before going ahead with the treatment.

My main concern before starting the treatment was how they would look throughout the whole process. I spoke these concerns through with Rachel during the first consultations and she helped to ease them all. She did this by discussing all of the different options available, such as tooth coloured fixed braces, and ensuring that the process would be as smooth as possible. The whole treatment has been an incredibly smooth and easy process, with Rachel talking me through and making me feel comfortable with every step.

Throughout the process, Rachel has worked alongside my own dentist and has kept him informed with each step of the treatment. While my work with Rachel is now complete, my own dentist will now be carrying on finishing my full treatment. The transitions between dentists has been incredibly smooth as they have both kept each other informed while ensuring I have complete understanding of what is taking place at each step.

I am so pleased that I went forward with my treatment, and it has been a very worthwhile investment which I will reap the rewards of throughout my lifetime.

I am so happy with the work that Rachel has done, and it has completely changed the way in which I view my teeth. It has changed my smile and has therefore improved my confidence overall.

For anyone thinking of any orthodontic treatment, I would highly recommend speaking to Rachel or another member of the team as they are all easy to talk to and incredibly helpful.

Every member of the Garstang Dental team that I have come into contact with has been a delight to meet, from the receptionists to the dental nurses, everyone is so lovely and makes you feel incredibly comfortable.

A massive thank you to Rachel and the team.

May 2019

Many, many grateful 'thank you's for what you all have done for me. My teeth are fantastic and my confidence has risen. Your skills and patience are fantastic. Thank you once again, you have given me my smile back.

Dear Finlay and Team

I am unable to thank you enough for the excellent work you and the team have done for me. I am more than happy with the results. I am only sorry I am unable to express myself better.

I feel more confident and can chew any food like I used to. Thanks so much.

Looking forward to my annual check up and seeing you all again.

March 2018

Bert

I just want to say I am very pleased with the denture you made for me, thank you! Your care throughout was excellent. Carry on with the good work.

Thank you very much for your efforts to make my smile confident again!

I have worn dentures successfully for a great number of years, but naturally, as I have got older my gums have receded and my dentures became less comfortable. Also, equally bad, my mouth had collapsed, giving me a Mr Punch-like appearance! I needed help and, having discussed the best course of action with my regular dentist, he advised that I should see Finlay. From the outset of my treatment, I was immediately put at ease. Finlay knew exactly how I felt and has magically corrected my mouth and facial appearance with the help of his team Rowan and Clare. They are a brilliant, talented, caring trio. I now have a wonderful set of natural looking dentures. I smile with renewed confidence and my family tell me that I look ten years younger! A VERY BIG THANK YOU.

Dear Finlay, I’d just like to thank you very much for the work you have done on my front tooth - I really have something to smile about now! Please thank all your colleagues, too. You all made me feel at ease.

To Finlay & the team, I would like to thank all at Garstang Dental Referral Practice for the care and consideration I have received over the past ten months during the period you have carried out the implant procedure which I hoped would transform my ‘smile’ without the need for a denture. Normally a visit to the dentist is a daunting experience, but I can honestly say that I have looked forward to each & every visit. The end result is ‘fantastic’ & I can understand why Finlay is so proud of his practice. I will recommend you, without reservation, to anyone I know who, in the future, requires specialist dental treatment.

To Dr Finlay Sutton, Rowan and the gang

First, I was afraid, I was petrified, cue for a song here me thinks!

Yes, indeed I was frightened and have been all my life of the dreaded dentist, probably because of the bad experiences with the school dentist back in the day. However, I needn’t have been because I was referred to this practice in Garstang where I was greeted by the wonderful Karen and equally wonderful nurse Claire, who from day one made me feel important to them and made me feel relaxed.I then met Dr Finlay Sutton such a gentle and caring man and so professional. He told me that I needed to have all my teeth removed because of gum disease but I knew instantly that I was in safe hands.

It was an amazing experience and after lots of visits, I now have my smile back. My new teeth are wonderful, so natural looking and people compliment me on them all the time.

So, a very big thank you to Rowan, Dr Finlay Sutton and the team.

Dr Finlay – you are simply the best!

From hating the dentist, I have grown to love Garstang Dental Referral Practice. You have become my friends for life.

Thank you and kind regards

Nancy

June 2018

Nany V

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How to find us

Situated in the centre of Garstang, Lancashire, our practice can be found at Weind House, Park Hill Road, Preston, PR3 1EL.

Contact us