Our Dentists
Dr Barry Kasai
Barry is our principal dental surgeon and the owner of Wellington Dental Practice. He qualified from the University of Birmingham in 1993 with a distinction in clinical dentistry and was awarded prizes in restorative dentistry & children and orthodontic dentistry.
Barry founded Wellington Dental Practice in April 2003 after several years as an associate in Taunton. He served as an approved trainer for newly qualified British dentists from 2006 to 2017.
Barry has amassed over 30 years of experience since qualifying from Birmingham Dental School. He has a special interest in aesthetic and restorative dentistry and has completed extensive postgraduate training with internationally renowned educators. His clinical expertise spans everything from cosmetic enhancements to complex full-mouth rehabilitation. Known for his preventive, conservative, and patient-focused approach, he is especially skilled at helping nervous patients feel at ease. Barry is also an accredited provider of Invisalign treatment and the Inman Aligner system, though he no longer accepts new patients.
Barry now limits his clinical time to one day a week and spends the rest of the week managing the affairs of the practice. As the owner of a large and busy dental practice with extensive equipment and facilities, he oversees everything from ongoing maintenance and technology upgrades to staff support and the overall welfare of patients and the practice.
Outside of dentistry, Barry enjoys gardening, growing fruit and vegetables, cooking, walking, and having time away from home with friends and family.
Dr Calum Finch
Calum is an experienced general dentist and partner at Wellington Dental Practice. Known for his calm, caring manner and sense of humour, he helps patients feel at ease—no matter how anxious they may be. He takes time to listen carefully and explain all treatment options clearly, ensuring every patient can make informed choices and feel confident in their care.
Originally from Clevedon near Bristol, Calum graduated from Leeds University in 2015 with merit. He returned to the Southwest for his dental foundation training and spent a year working in Axminster before joining the practice in September 2016. He particularly enjoys the long-term relationships that general practice allows, especially caring for families across multiple generations.
Calum is committed to delivering gentle and comfortable dentistry. He is trained in the Comfortable Dental Injection Technique (CDIT), which he uses routinely to minimise discomfort during treatment. He recently completed a Level 7 Diploma in Restorative and Aesthetic Dentistry at the Advanced Centre of Excellence (ACE) in London, further enhancing his clinical expertise.
With a special interest in aesthetic dentistry and smile design, Calum is a certified Invisalign Go provider. He has also trained with Tif Qureshi at the IAS Academy, learning how to integrate orthodontic treatments with composite bonding. This allows him to offer tooth alignment as a standalone option or as part of a wider smile improvement plan.
His passion for adhesive dentistry has led to advanced training at the prestigious TAHA Academy, where he earned Gold and Diamond certification in anterior and posterior composite techniques. In addition, Calum is trained in restoring dental implants, giving him a broad skill set for complex restorative cases.
Outside the surgery, Calum is dedicated to his fitness and well-being, training at the gym 3–4 mornings a week. He enjoys kitesurfing at Exmouth, skiing in the winter, playing music, and spending time with friends. He sees fitness as a way of life that supports both mental and physical health.
Calum is committed to delivering outstanding care with a highly personalised approach. He believes that a tailored, positive patient experience is the key to successful outcomes—both functionally and aesthetically.
Instagram: @drcalumfinch
Dr Andrew Armstrong
Special interest in Implants, Oral Surgery, Aesthetic and Sedation Dentistry
In 2018, Wellington Dental Practice established the Somerset Implant Centre as a dedicated implant clinic within the practice. It is led by our experienced implant surgeon, Dr Andrew (Andy) Armstrong, who combines extensive surgical expertise with a gentle, patient-focused approach to care.
He graduated from The Royal London Hospital School of Dentistry in 1999 with distinctions in both Restorative Dentistry and Oral Surgery and became a member of the Royal College of Surgeons of England in 2003. His early career included roles in several university hospitals across the UK, including Staff Grade Oral Surgeon posts at Musgrove Park and Yeovil District Hospitals.
In 2011, Andy joined Wellington Dental Practice and has since dedicated his clinical practice exclusively to implant dentistry, oral surgery and sedation care. Supported by a skilled and dedicated team, including surgical nurse Jasmine, sedation nurse Tanisha and treatment coordinator Claire, whilst being backed by the ongoing investment by the practice in the latest technology, Andy delivers outstanding and predictable results for patients. Technologies include 3D CBCT imaging ensuring precise diagnostics and streamlined planning, TRIOS digital scanning, Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF), and Straumann implant systems, all enabling a full range of treatments from single-tooth implants to complex bone grafting procedures.
Andy is especially experienced in helping nervous or anxious patients feel at ease using intravenous sedation. He works closely with colleagues at the practice who have special interests in periodontics, endodontics and restorative dentistry, allowing for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to even the most complex cases.
He regularly attends national and international training to stay at the forefront of implant innovation and remains committed to delivering the highest standard of care in a modern, supportive environment. Andy is a member of both the International Team for Implantology (ITI) and the Society for the Advancement of Anaesthesia in Dentistry (SAAD).
Referring your patients to Dr Andy Armstrong ensures they receive exceptional care from an experienced, compassionate team. All patients are returned to your care upon completion of their treatment, with full documentation and follow-up support in place.
Dr Martin Damyanov
Martin Damyanov is a highly experienced clinician with a strong and long standing focus on endodontics, commonly known as root canal therapy. He graduated from the Medical University of Sofia in 2003 and joined Wellington Dental Practice in 2012, where he has since become an integral member of the clinical team.
Dedicated to clinical excellence, Martin has undertaken extensive postgraduate training. His passion for restorative dentistry, and in particular endodontics, led him to pursue advanced qualifications at one of the most prestigious postgraduate dental institutions in the UK. He completed both a Certificate in Endodontics and a Diploma in Endodontic Practice at the Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, solidifying his expertise in the field.
Martin has a special interest in the management of complex endodontic cases. He uses the latest techniques and technologies, including advanced dental microscopy, modern rotary instrumentation, and cutting-edge biocompatible materials, to deliver precise, predictable, and long-lasting outcomes. His calm, gentle and reassuring manner helps patients feel confident and at ease, even during the most intricate procedures.
His clinical work is now solely dedicated to root canal therapy. Martin provides high-quality endodontic treatment to both private patients and those referred by other dentists across Somerset and the wider region. He has earned the trust of his referring colleagues for his depth of knowledge, technical skill, and consistently high standard of care.
Outside the practice, Martin enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters. A former competitive swimmer, he stays active through regular gym and swimming sessions. He also has a keen interest in science fiction and is currently learning to play the guitar.
Dr Dan Longmore
Dan began his dental career in 2004 as a dental nurse in rural Shropshire. Inspired by his growing passion for the profession, he went on to study dentistry and qualified with a BDS from Peninsula Dental School in 2014. He completed his foundation training in Exeter and joined Wellington Dental Practice in 2015, where he has since become a valued and long standing member of the clinical team.
Motivated by a strong interest in gum health and the treatment of periodontal disease, Dan pursued further training and completed a Master’s Degree in Periodontology from Plymouth University in 2021, graduating with distinction. His MSc included a research project on the use of amelogenins as an adjunct in the non-surgical management of periodontal pockets.
During his postgraduate studies, Dan developed enhanced clinical skills in the diagnosis and management of complex periodontal conditions. He is now able to provide a wide range of advanced periodontal treatments, including the surgical management of bone loss, crown-lengthening, and procedures to support prosthodontic and restorative treatment. His training also included the planning of dental implants and techniques for hard and soft tissue augmentation around implants.
Dan works full-time at Wellington Dental Practice, where he provides both general dentistry and periodontal care. He accepts referrals from colleagues and self-referring patients across Somerset for the treatment of mild to advanced periodontal disease.
In addition to his clinical work, Dan has previously held a teaching role as a Clinical Supervisor at Peninsula Dental School, supporting the training and development of third- and fifth-year dental students. He continues to update his skills regularly through hands-on courses and theoretical CPD, and he is a proud member of the British Society of Periodontology.
Outside the practice, Dan enjoys hiking, painting, drawing, and travel.
Dan accepts direct self-referrals from patients and referrals from other dentists for periodontal treatment.
Dr Gerardo Bassanini
Gerardo is originally from Madrid, Spain. In 2009, he graduated from Madrid Dental School and moved to the UK shortly afterwards. He spent one year in a Community Dental Hospital in Lincolnshire, concentrating on both restorative dentistry and oral surgery. This was followed by time spent working in both NHS and private dental practices.
Gerardo’s extensive training also encompasses a one-year oral surgery programme at the University of Bristol, as well as a four-year Clinical Masters Training programme in Restorative Dental Practice at London’s world-renowned UCL Eastman Dental Institute.
We were delighted to have Gerardo join the practice in December 2020. He has a special interest in restorative dentistry and strong beliefs in minimally invasive aesthetic dentistry. He recognises the importance of a beautiful natural smile, but ultimately that preserving the health of your teeth comes first.
Gerardo’s further interests lie in facial aesthetics, Invisalign treatment, prosthodontics, implant dentistry and all types of cosmetic dentistry. His extensive experience ensures his patients receive the best care, advice and minimally invasive aesthetic treatment.
Dr Angus MacNeil
Angus is a highly qualified and approachable dentist with a strong academic background and a passion for delivering personalised, high-quality care. He enjoys helping patients of all ages achieve healthy, confident smiles, and is particularly interested in restorative and aesthetic dentistry, dental implants, and patient education.
Before training in dentistry, Angus completed a BSc in Molecular Biology and a PhD in Gene Regulation at Imperial College London. He later graduated with honours in dentistry from the University of Glasgow in 2012 and has continued to pursue advanced training, including the MFDS qualification and a dedicated implantology course with Nobel Biocare.
His calm, patient-focused approach has earned him recognition throughout his career, including:
- Finalist in the Dentistry Scotland Awards (2014)
- Elective Prize from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
- Distinction Award in the BDS Programme.
Angus brings a thoughtful, evidence-based approach to his clinical work and is committed to ongoing learning and professional development. His patients value his clear communication and gentle manner, which helps create a relaxed and reassuring experience in the dental chair.
Dr Alex Ioannidis
A talented and highly qualified dental surgeon, Alex joins us as an Associate Dentist with a special interest in prosthodontics, the restoration and replacement of teeth to improve function, comfort, and appearance.
Alex graduated from the University of Birmingham in 2016 with Honours and Distinction in Clinical Dentistry, having received academic awards in both Restorative Dentistry and Oral Surgery during his undergraduate studies. He completed his foundation training in Central London in 2017, followed by Dental Core Training at Guy’s Hospital, where he gained further experience in restorative dentistry and oral surgery.
In 2019, Alex commenced postgraduate training in prosthodontics at the UCL Eastman Dental Institute, one of the UK’s leading centres for postgraduate dental education. He has completed the programme and has gained a diploma qualification, with progression towards Membership in Prosthodontics with the Royal College of Surgeons of England. Currently, Alex can be regarded as a dentist with a special interest in prosthodontics.
Throughout his training, Alex has developed particular expertise in managing complex cases, including full-mouth rehabilitation, and is highly skilled in both fixed and removable prosthodontics as well as implant dentistry. His clinical focus includes the conservative management of worn dentition using composite resin and ceramic restorations, with the latest bonding techniques. He has a strong interest in aesthetic dentistry and smile transformations and regularly attends private training courses and international conferences to stay at the forefront of innovation in his field.
In 2021, Alex was awarded Membership of the Faculty of Dental Surgery (MFDS) by the Royal College of Surgeons of England, further recognising his clinical skill and dedication to professional development.
Known for his calm, professional manner and high standards of care, Alex is committed to delivering excellent outcomes tailored to each patient’s individual needs.
Outside of dentistry, Alex enjoys fitness, travelling, and photography. He finds swimming an ideal way to relax and unwind.
Our Hygienists
Michelle Smithers
Michelle has worked at Wellington Dental Practice since September 2006. She absolutely loves being part of the great team. She works closely with all the dentists at the practice and ensures the patients have great oral care advice. She works hard to look after patients’ teeth and gums. She has a special interest in dental implants and caring for them.
In her spare time, Michelle particularly enjoys everything to do with music, particularly rock music. She goes to festivals and rock concerts as much as she can, and helps to run a charity music festival every year.
Kirsty Stott
Kirsty completed her Diploma in Dental Hygiene at Liverpool Dental Hospital in 2004. With more than 10 years of experience gained through working in both private and Denplan practices, Kirsty is committed to providing exceptional patient care in areas such as periodontal treatment, preventive care, and oral hygiene instruction.
Kirsty is extremely enthusiastic about dental health and has a kind and empathetic nature, which helps her patients feel relaxed. She appreciates the importance of building a rapport and continuing a relationship with her patients in order to help them alleviate any fears or nervousness.
In her spare time, Kirsty enjoys pilates, yoga, and walking her dog.
Our Support Staff
Daphne Kasai
Bio coming soon.
Emily Kasai
Emily joined the practice in 2014, where she started on reception in the summer before starting university. After she finished her degree in business management, she took on her role in the office and has since become a qualified dental nurse as well.
Emily has always loved the office side of things, keeping the practice running smoothly, supporting the large team at Welllington Dental Practice, and helping with patient enquiries. However, she has discovered she also loves working with patients and being a part of their experience within the practice.
When Barry’s nurse had to take time off due to illness, Emily enrolled in the dental nursing course so she could step in and help. It meant the practice didn’t need to hire another nurse, which can be tricky sometimes! Even though her nursing role is on a temporary basis, she has found it very rewarding to be able to nurse alongside her office role. She loves to be able to see the clinical side of dentistry as well as the management side, and she’s really enjoyed getting to know the patients differently, whilst continuing to support the team.
Outside of work, Emily loves fitness and always tries to fit in a workout before the day starts, as it sets her up for the day and puts her in a great mood
At home, she loves cooking with her husband and spending as much time as possible with their dog Louis, whether that’s relaxing or heading out for a long walk or run. She also loves catching up with friends whenever she can, especially over a nice meal out!
Joe Kasai
Bio coming soon.
Claire Burrows
Claire joined Wellington Dental Practice in June 2009. She has seen the practice transform from a four-surgery practice to the bustling ten-surgery practice it is today. Claire loves her job role and has said that working at Wellington doesn’t feel like a job; it truly feels like being part of a second family. She really enjoys helping patients and seeing their confidence grow as their smiles transform. Watching the patients’ happiness at the end of their journey is the most rewarding part of her role.
In her spare time, Claire enjoys Warhammer and miniature painting, as well as puzzles. She is currently doing a Disney 40,320-piece puzzle! She also enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and baking cakes for those special people in her life.
Victoria Staple
Bio coming soon.
Frey Keane
Frey is our dedicated Endodontic Nurse and Treatment Coordinator, working closely with Dr. Martin Damyanov. Since joining the practice in January 2020, he has become an integral part of our endodontic team, known for his professionalism, compassion, and calm approach.
Fully qualified in radiography and trained in CT scanning, Frey supports both Dr. Damyanov and Dr. Andy Armstrong in delivering exceptional care for endodontic, oral surgery, and implant patients, ensuring every stage of treatment is safe, smooth, and seamless.
Outside of work, Frey enjoys spending time with his dogs, exploring new spicy dishes, tackling DIY projects and home mechanics, and embracing the outdoors with his partner, Natalie.
Jasmine Pidgeon
Jasmine joined the practice in April 2021 and enjoys creating a calm and comfortable environment, ensuring patients feel at ease before, during, and after their treatment.
Jasmine is a team player and values seamless collaboration between the practice team and the surgical team. Her greatest professional satisfaction comes from witnessing the transformation in patients’ confidence and seeing firsthand the difference the team’s work makes in their lives.
Outside of work, Jasmine loves to travel and explore new countries and cultures. She also enjoys reading and cherishes quality time spent with her dogs, friends, and family.
Gemma Rigby
Gemma has been part of the practice since 2014 and qualified as a dental nurse in 2015. With a passion for perio cases and years of experience, she loves how dental nursing continues to keep her curious and engaged, especially getting to know patients over time.
Outside of work, Gemma swaps dental tools for welly boots, raising pigs and chickens on her smallholding, and enjoying country life with her family and dog.
Patricia Bond
Patricia began dental nursing in January 2000 and qualified in May 2003 with a National Certificate NEBDN.
She started at Wellington Dental Practice in October 2014, and really loves working with the wonderful team.
Outside of work, Patricia is interested in researching her family history.
Nat Jones
Nat has been a qualified dental nurse since 2008 and joined the practice in 2020. She loves working as part of the team and has great experience, particularly in periodontics and dental implants. Nat loves caring for people and building real connections with patients.
Outside of work, Nat swaps scrubs for shampoo as a dog groomer and enjoys adventuring through Somerset and Devon with her daughter and her four-legged sidekick.
Kirsty Clamp
Kirsty has been part of the team at Wellington Dental Practice since August 2022 and feels she can genuinely say that she loves working at the practice. Having worked in several practices in the local area, she thinks this practice truly stands out as the best.
Kirsty feels the team really is one big family, the morale is fantastic, and it’s a great feeling to come to work and not feel like you’re working. She loves being part of a team where she feels appreciated and is not just seen as a number. She believes that work-life balance is always taken into account at the practice, and Kirsty couldn’t be more thankful to be part of such a supportive, caring team.
Outside of work, Kirsty enjoys going to the gym, meeting friends, spending time with her family, and taking her dog on long walks.
Kendall Keane
Kendall joined the practice in August 2023. She takes pride in being a supportive and enthusiastic member of the dental team. She enjoys positive relationships with patients and helping to create a welcoming, comfortable experience for everyone who visits the practice.
Outside of work, Kendall loves spending quality time with her three children, enjoying days out at the beach, and baking.
Elena Flanagan
Elena joined the practice in September 2023 as a dental nurse. Her favourite part of her job is seeing the results of treatments and how happy it can make patients feel. She also enjoys the variety of helping people, especially those patients who are nervous.
Outside of work, she likes gardening, baking, and playing the piano.
Emily Pearce
Emily joined the practice in November 2024 after qualifying as a dental nurse. She brings with her experience from a hospital background, where she worked as a MaxFacs dental nurse. She enjoys the more complex side of dentistry, nursing for surgical extractions, implant placements, and transformative aesthetic cases.
Outside of work, Emily is often competing with her horse, cooking something delicious in the kitchen, or hitting the gym.
Amber Grellier
Amber joined Wellington Dental Practice in April 2024 as a Trainee Dental Nurse. She has a genuine passion for patient care and oral health. Amber has been in the dental health industry for six years, but took a break to have her children. Since she has returned to dentistry, she has found it so rewarding, and she is excited to continue developing her skills and knowledge within the profession. She takes pride in supporting patients through their dental treatments, helping them feel comfortable and confident in their care.
Outside of work, she loves spending time with her children.
Hannah Fyfe
Hannah joined Wellington Dental Practice in October 2023, bringing a decade of experience as a qualified dental nurse. Splitting her time between reception and surgery, she loves being part of the full patient journey and connecting with people every step of the way.
When she’s not at work, Hannah’s either at the gym, indulging her sweet tooth, or off on adventures with her dog and cat in tow.
Lisa Mace
Lisa joined Wellington Dental Practice in October 2018, starting as a receptionist before expanding her role to include decontamination work. In October 2023, she enrolled in the Exeter College City and Guilds Dental Nursing course. In September 2025, she qualified as a dental nurse. She enjoys being part of the friendly, supportive team that they have at the practice, and she takes great satisfaction in all aspects of her job. Lisa likes to stay busy and try her hand at new challenges.
Outside of work, she plays for a local skittles team and enjoys spending quality time with her family.
Megan Leymen
Meg joined Wellington Dental Practice as a receptionist in January 2018. She has worked in dentistry since 1998, starting as a dental nurse and receptionist. Meg enjoys the variety of work that comes with being at the front desk, and loves working as part of the team to care for the patients.
Outside of work, she enjoys meeting up with family from Yorkshire and Wales in different locations in the UK, loves dogs, and hopes to get another next year. She also enjoys photographing the countryside, attending keep-fit classes, going to the theatre, and listening to country music.
Lorraine Kemp
Lorraine joined our team at Wellington Dental Practice in 2020 and is an invaluable member of the team. She enjoys meeting and greeting the patients and putting them at ease from the moment they step through the door. She also loves working together as part of a team, and this collaboration ensures patients have a great experience.
Outside of work, Lorraine enjoys swimming and gardening, as well as reading a good book. She loves visiting different countries and learning about their different cultures.
Jo Tate
Jo joined the practice in September 2025 and has a background of 12 years working within education. She enjoys building relationships with our patients and helping them to feel at ease, whether that is answering any questions about their treatment or offering a warm smile.
Outside of work, Jo really enjoys yoga and practices most days. She also loves spending family time with her husband and teenage children, and walking along the coast with her miniature dachshunds.
