Meet the Team
At Nightingale Dental Centre, our dedicated team of highly skilled professionals is committed to providing exceptional oral care and ensuring a positive patient experience. Led by Clare Henderson, our experienced and compassionate dentists employ the latest advancements in dentistry to deliver top-notch services tailored to each patient's unique needs. Our friendly and knowledgeable dental hygienists, prioritise preventive care and educate patients on effective oral hygiene practices. The efficient administrative staff work seamlessly to create a warm and welcoming environment. Together, our dental practice team strives to promote overall dental wellness and lasting relationships with our valued patients.
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Clare Henderson
Practice Manager
GDC 131413
Clare began her career in dentistry in 1996. Her first role was as a dental nurse, then in 2001 she became Practice Manager.
She gained her NEBDN qualification in 1998 then went on to obtain her Dental Radiography for Dental Care Professionals qualification in 2015 and her Award in Dental Intravenous Sedation Nursing in 2017.
In her spare time, Clare enjoys spending time with her family, likes long walks along the beaches of Thanet and makes jewellery.

Dr. Dany Abdulahad BDS
Dentist
GDC 281893
Dany has lived and worked in the UK since 2014, following his graduation in Syria. During this time, he has gained valuable experience in both general and cosmetic dentistry, continually developing his skills to provide high-quality care for his patients.
He has a particular interest in cosmetic dentistry and enjoys helping patients improve their confidence through their smiles. His areas of focus include composite bonding, teeth whitening, veneers, and short-term orthodontics such as Invisalign.
Known for his calm and gentle approach, Dany is especially popular with anxious patients. He takes the time to listen, explain treatment options clearly, and ensure patients feel comfortable and reassured throughout their journey.

Dr. Ralitsa Gaydarska DDS
Dentist
GDC 180367
Ralitsa qualified from University at Munster, Germany in 2007. She worked for 2 years in a private practice before moving to the UK in 2010. She then completed her 2 year postgraduate studies at Tipton Academy in Restorative Dentistry in 2013.
Ralitsa’s calm and soothing nature runs through the practice, and is of great help with nervous patients. As well as specialties in other treatment, Ralitsa is qualified in ClearCorrect and cannot wait to offer you a straight and white smile that you will love.
Ralitsa spends her free time with her husband and two children, exploring Kent or enjoying local family based activities, She has a keen interest in baking (much to the staff's delight) and expanding her knowledge on new changes within dentistry by undertaking various courses.

Dr. Marsida Shima
Dentist
GDC 287047
Marsida finished university in 2014 in University of Medicine, Tirana, Albania, she passed her statutory exams in UK in 2019 and has worked in a number of mixed practices since then. Throughout her career, Marsida has developed a well-rounded approach to dentistry, focusing on delivering high-quality treatment while ensuring her patients feel comfortable and well-informed at every stage of their visit. She is known for her gentle manner and caring attitude, helping to put even the most nervous patients at ease.
Marsida joined us in February 2025 and has quickly become a valued member of the team, building strong relationships with patients and colleagues alike.
Outside of work, Marsida enjoys spending quality time with her family and making the most of the outdoors, particularly with relaxing walks along the coast.
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Dr. Ben Marnell BDS
Dentist
GDC 277549
BSc (Hons), BDS, PG Dip Restorative & Aesthetic Dentistry, PG Dip Oral Rehabilitation, GDC 277549
Ben's particular interests involve aesthetic smile rehabilitations using composite bonding, porcelain veneers, full mouth rehabilitations, replacement of missing teeth and treatment of worn teeth. He is currently undergoing advanced training in teeth straightening procedures. He is a big believer in giving patients a customised experience and treatment plan to achieve their healthy smile goals and making their experience as comfortable as possible.
In his spare time he is a keen runner and enjoys long walks with his labrador.

Charlee Portsmouth
Hygienist
GDC 293703
Charlee is a dedicated hygienist who qualified from The University of Essex, Southend, in 2024. She brings a fresh, modern approach to patient care, combining her up-to-date training with genuine enthusiasm and attention to detail at every appointment.
Charlee is known for her friendly, reassuring manner that helps people feel comfortable and confident in the chair.
With prevention at the heart of everything she does, Charlee works closely with her patients to support their oral health goals, whether simple or more complex - empowering them with the knowledge and care they need to maintain a healthy smile.

Nicky Fowler
Dental Nurse
GDC 134389
Nicky brings more than three decades of experience in dentistry, having started her journey in 1992 at the front desk before moving into dental nursing. Throughout her career, she has worn many hats - from support and practice management to leading the reception team, gaining a deep understanding of every aspect of a dental practice.
While her experience is broad, Nicky’s real passion is being chair-side, where she enjoys the fast-paced, hands-on environment and the chance to support patients through their treatment. She takes great pride in helping people feel at ease and cared for every step of the way.
When she’s not at work, Nicky enjoys spending quality time with her grandchildren, making the most of her weekends with family.

Christina Roberts
Dental Nurse
GDC 269393
Christina qualified as a dental nurse in 2015 and has since become a valued member of the team. She has a particular interest in supporting nervous patients, helping them feel calm, reassured, and comfortable throughout their visit.
Her friendly and caring approach ensures patients feel at ease every step of the way.
Outside of work, Christina is kept busy with her two young boys.
She enjoys spending quality time with her family, visiting the beach, and going to live music events.

Natalie Edwards
Receptionist
GDC
Natalie is a valued member of our reception team, where she plays an important role in welcoming patients. With over 25 years of experience in dentistry, she brings a deep understanding of patient care and the day-to-day running of a busy practice.
Known for her warm and approachable nature, Natalie is dedicated to making every patient feel comfortable and at ease from the moment they arrive. She takes pride in creating a welcoming environment and works hard to ensure each visit runs smoothly, delivering a positive and reassuring experience for everyone.
Outside of work, Natalie enjoys spending time by the coast and has a passion for sea swimming, making the most of any opportunity to get outdoors and recharge.

Mina Porritt
Receptionist
GDC
Mina joined the team in April 2025 and is a valued member of our reception team, often one of the first friendly faces patients see when they arrive.
Originally from Lithuania, she brings over 20 years of experience in customer-facing roles, along with a warm, approachable manner that instantly helps put people at ease.
She takes great pride in creating a welcoming atmosphere at reception, ensuring every patient feels comfortable, listened to, and well looked after from the moment they walk through the door.
Outside of work, Mina enjoys spending quality time with her family at weekends.
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