Our staff.

West Grove Dental’s Founder, Nicola, achieved her Bachelor of Dental Surgery from Cardiff University in 1988, and worked in various dental practices before taking over City Road Dental in 1995, which later became West Grove Dental.

Relocating to larger premises in 2007, the practice has grown from a team of five to a predominantly female team of twelve.

Dr Nicola Taaffe B.D.S

Principal Dentist GDC NO: 63346

Nicola achieved her Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 1988 from Cardiff University and worked in various parts of South Wales. 

In 2014 Nicola became Dental Phobia Certified and has a special interest in treating those with dental anxiety. She has treated many phobic patients over the years, helping them overcome their fears and enabling them to return for future appointments without experiencing anxiety.

Dr Benjamin Edewor Omovie B.D.S (Lagos), M.P.H (Wales), F.D.S.R.C.P.S (Glasgow)

Associate Dentist GDC NO: 69653

Ben graduated from the University of Lagos in 1986 and has since been awarded a Masters in Dental Public Health from the University of Wales and a Diploma of the Fellow in Dental Surgery from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgery, Glasgow. 

Ben is a registered specialist in oral surgery and has a keen interest in dental implantology.

He works at the practice one morning a week.

Dr Charlotte George B.D.S

Associate Dentist GDC NO: 191787

Charlotte graduated from the University of Bristol in 2010. From there, she worked in a private practice in Australia for 3 years before heading back to Cardiff and has worked here for 10 years. She joined us in 2023.

In addition to General Dentistry, she is passionate about Aesthetic Treatment, including anti-wrinkle, dermal filler, and cosmetic treatments like aligners, composite bonding, and veneers.

Out of work, you can find her trying to tire out her cocker spaniel Sid on long walks!

Jane Keitch E.D.H (Wales)

Dental Hygienist GDC NO: 3014

After working for many years as a dental nurse, Jane moved into dental hygiene and graduated from Cardiff Dental School in 1985. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to educating patients on how good oral hygiene and good general health go hand in hand.

Jane thoroughly enjoys getting to know patients and has built up a large, trusting patient base since she joined the practice in 2014.

Catherine Hackett
Dental Hygienist (GDC 134512)

Catherine qualified with a duel diploma in Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy from Cardiff University in 2011. Catherine’s main interest is periodontology. She prides herself on providing a high standard of care with treatment and advice adapted to patients individual needs and requirements. 

When not looking after people’s gum health, Catherine looks after her two young children who she shares with her husband.

Elena Cawley
Dental Hygienist (GDC 5273)

Qualified as a dental hygienist in Cardiff in 1997.

Was previously a dental nurse.

I enjoy the preventative side of dentistry.

Outside of work, I enjoy walking and the great outdoors.

Catherine Heron R.D.N

Practice Manager and Registered Dental Nurse GDC NO: 110865

Cath joined the practice as a dental nurse in 2002, becoming a practice manager in 2006. As practice manager, Cath ensures the practice runs efficiently and staff members can provide patients with high-quality care. 

Cath's approachable nature has enabled her to build strong relationships with patients over the years. For many of our patients, Cath is a friendly and reassuring face. Providing patients with space to talk through any concerns they may have is always her top priority.

Lauren R.D.N

Registered Dental Nurse GDC: 245305

Lauren joined the practice in 2011 as a Trainee Dental Nurse and qualified in 2013.

With over a decade of experience, Lauren has taken on the responsibility of lead dental nurse. She oversees the training and organisation of the nursing staff. Her extensive knowledge of treatment and patient care often proves invaluable to the members of staff she trains, as well as the patients she supports.

Nasreen R.D.N

Registered Dental Nurse GDC: 267544

Nas began working as a dental nurse in the 1980s but left the profession to start a family. With her children grown, Nas returned to the profession in 2014.

Nas thoroughly enjoys supporting patients through their treatment. Her warm nature and bright smile mean patients often take a shine to Nas.

Natalie R.D.N

Registered Dental Nurse GDC: 246037

Natalie was born in Cardiff and qualified as a dental nurse in August 2010. She joined the practice in July 2023. Natalie's main interests are cosmetic and general dentistry. 

Outside of work, Natalie enjoys socialising with friends and family and going on holidays.

Tia

Treatment Co-Ordinator

Tia joined the practice in 2018. As treatment coordinator, Tia is the liaison between clinicians and patients. She guides patients through their journey from booking to dental chair, assists the clinicians in coordinating treatment plans, and ensures all patients clearly understand the treatment they require.

Tia has a wealth of knowledge of treatment and treatment timelines, as well as payment plans and options.

Fluent in Welsh, Tia is always happy to converse in Welsh with those who wish to.

Hajir

Trainee Dental Nurse

Originally from Iraq, Hajir moved to the UK in 2022 and worked in Zara before changing careers to train to become a dental nurse, joining the practice in 2023. She loves learning about the wide range of treatments we offer and hopes to qualify in 2025. Hajir can converse in Arabic with those who wish.

Kate

Trainee Dental Nurse

Kate joined the surgery in April 2024. She is about to start her dental nurse course aiming towards qualification some time next year. Kate has brought her knowledge from working in  pharmacy and hospital environments with her.