Our Team
Ewell Orthodontics values quality treatment and fabulous customer service. To enable us to do this we have surrounded ourselves with the best team possible. Our staff are highly trained and all nurses and therapist GDC registered. As one of our patients you will benefit from a dedicated Treatment Coordinator who is there to make your journey from the start to the finish as seamless and hassle free as possible.
Faiza Lewis
BDS FDSRCS MSc Morth
Partner and Specialist Orthodontist
G.D.C. No. 69483
Faiza Lewis
Along this journey Faiza has worked with many different children and adults to help them overcome their fears of dentistry. She continues to use this skill to help nervous patients feel confident enough to have braces and get the straight teeth they have longed for. She enjoys taking her time to explain all procedures and loves a good chat! She has also become involved with a few local schools with their career days to encourage students to consider a career in dentistry and has a keen interest in teaching within the practice and recently lectured at a European Conference.
In her free time Faiza enjoys skiing, going to art galleries and any type of live music or festivals with her husband. However these days she spends most of her free time looking after her young daughter which gives her much more fun and joy.
Five minutes with Faiza
One of our two orthodontic specialist partners, Faiza Lewis gives us the low-down on work and life
How would you describe yourself?
Fun-loving and hard-working.
What makes you happy?
Doing my job makes me happy. I spend all day working with patients who want to improve their smile and boy do they smile when treatment is finished! I am part of a great team with Rich as my colleague assisted by fabulous dental nurses, treatment co-ordinators and receptionists. What’s not to like?
Why orthodontics?
I always enjoyed orthodontics as an undergraduate but initially had my sights set on becoming an oral surgeon. This involved working in the maxillofacial department at the Royal London Hospital where orthodontists and surgeons collaborate closely. During that interlude, my interest in orthodontics was sparked.
Tell us about your family?
I am a classic working woman, marrying late and giving birth to an only child well into my 40s. My husband is employed by Oxford University to run summer programmes for overseas students and to recruit for MI6. Our little girl is a joy and takes up a lot of my non-working hours.
What would you like to change?
It’s still hard for a woman to set up a business because we are so often the chief carer in our families. But that should not be an obstacle. With that in mind, I support local schools with career days helping girls fill in UCAS forms for dental school. I recently gave a talk to Wallington Grammar School in which I described how I had come from a first generation immigrant family to going to university and becoming a practice owner.
Outside of work?
I love travelling and until motherhood had great overseas holidays with my husband. I have found a way to travel and learn which pleases me greatly. I regularly attend the Alpine Orthodontic Conference and have been a guest lecturer too. I am now Treasurer for the British Orthodontic Conference which is the pre-eminent event for orthodontists in the UK. I shall be in charge of the budget but working closely with the conference team.
What do you take a pride in?
I have maintained my dental skills so I can make some cosmetic enhancements for patients’ teeth at the end of treatment. For example, the patient may have teeth that are perfectly aligned but perhaps differ in length or shape and I can fix this by building up the teeth with enamel-coloured bonding material.
Naturally, I also have a great pride in my family, especially my five-year-old daughter. My work family comes a very close second. I am very lucky to be surrounded by such a great team.
Richard Williams
BDS FDS RCPS MSc Morth
Partner and Specialist Orthodontist
G.D.C. No. 69758
Richard Williams
From an early age Richard saw how enjoyable and rewarding Orthodontics can be through his Father, who was also an Orthodontist! As a teenager he helped pour-up the patients plaster models and was able to see the incredible improvements braces made to their smiles. In carrying on the family tradition, it is very apparent in his relaxed and friendly manner, how much enjoyment and satisfaction Richard gets from his specialty.
Outside dentistry Richard is an accomplished French horn player. He started playing aged 7 years and has never stopped, continuing to get great pleasure, and relaxation, playing in the Richmond Orchestra. For anyone concerned about the effect of braces on their brass or wind instrument playing, Richard is in a unique position to provide the advice and reassurance needed. Richard is also kept busy at home with his wife, Bridget, and sons, Jonty and Felix.
Five minutes with Richard
One of our two orthodontic specialist partners, Richard Williams, gives us the low-down on work and life
How would you describe yourself?
I am a perfectionist. I like to focus and do things to the best of my abilities – making my patients feel at ease in the process. I am not someone who likes to be in the limelight – so five minutes of me is more than enough!
What makes you happy?
My family, making music and caring for my patients. I particularly enjoy patients who have complex issues or who play wind instruments. As a French Horn-playing orthodontist, it’s very rewarding to support them through their treatment.
Why orthodontics?
It was my destiny. My father was an orthodontist. I did not set out to follow in his footsteps, it simply proved impossible not to.
Tell us about your family?
Music runs in the family. My sister and myself are musicians and we would play in a Chamber Group with our parents. My wife and I have two sons who have inherited the music gene.
What would you like to change?
If I could rule the world for the day, I would banish direct-to-consumer braces because orthodontic treatment is really not that straight-forward and should have the supervision of a specialist.
What do you take a pride in?
My family, the care of my patients and the orchestra I play in. I am also really proud of our team here at Ewell Orthodontics and what they achieve. Is my 5 minutes over yet?!
Winnie Nyumurundira
Lead Orthodontic Nurse
G.D.C. No. 116119
Winnie Nyumurundira
Five minutes with Winnie
The lead orthodontic nurse at Ewell Orthodontics, Winnie is a highly valued team member whose calm and gentle manner supports the health and well-being vibe here
What does a typical day look like?
I like to be at the practice in advance of the specialists so I can get their surgeries set up and ready for the first patient. Then when they arrive, we have a huddle when all the team gather to plan for the day. We make sure we have everything we need and in place for each patient. We see as many as 20 a day sometimes.
What does a dental nurse do in an orthodontic practice?
There is so much variety every day and that is part of the joy of my job. My principal role is to care for the patient and support the orthodontist. Nursing involves mixing dental materials, passing wires and looking after cross infection control (keeping the surgery 100% sterile) and we take X-rays. Once a patient has started treatment I will explain to patients how to care for their teeth and oral hygiene.
What did you do before working at Ewell Orthodontics?
I started my working life as a teacher, which I enjoyed very much. Then I decided I wanted to work in the care sector and I took an NVQ to retrain in healthcare. After working as a dental nurse in a general practice, I got a job at Ewell Orthodontics. That was 13 years ago. This is the best job I have ever had. I have the best bosses and I work with a team who are very, very nice.
Why orthodontics?
I just love the hands-on part of my job, working with Faiza or Richard. At Ewell there are lots of different brace choices and each one needs different tools or materials or wires. For instance, the orthodontist calls out a number for each different wire. It’s like a different language and you have to be very sharp and have a good memory. There is so much to think about and I am always using my brain. I have an Oral Health Education qualification so that I am qualified to advise patients and this is rewarding too.
Outside of work?
I like to help out in the community. During the pandemic, I was assisting elderly people and people with Covid-19. I also enjoy spending time with young children.
Do you have a bee in your bonnet?
I am upset with companies which are selling aligners directly to patients. I think it’s very unfair to patients. It might look to them as if they are saving money and time but they are not. We are already seeing patients who are having problems and need help and I think it’s very wrong.
What do you take a pride in?
Having this job and being part of such a lovely team. I forget that Richard and Faiza are my employers, they are like family. They are so professional and always give an honest opinion to their patients. I feel indispensable, which is a very nice feeling.
Agata Klimowicz
Treatment Coordinator & Orthodontic Nurse
G.D.C. No. 254084
Agata Klimowicz
Five minutes with Agata
Agata is one of our two treatment co-ordinators and at the ready to answer any queries our patients might have. Here she explains the pride she takes in her work.
What does a typical day look like?
There is no such a thing as a typical day! On Tuesday I nurse for both Richard and Faiza, who take it in turns to work until 7pm. On Mondays and Wednesdays, I work as a treatment co-ordinator (TC). This is a job I share with Carly. We work seamlessly, each of us picking up for the other, so patients are always looked after.
What does a treatment co-ordinator (TC) do?
The TC role works very well in orthodontics. It allows dental nurses like myself to broaden our roles in patient care. Orthodontic specialists are highly skilled and like to focus on diagnosis and treatment planning. Carly and I are there to spend time chatting to patients about treatment or answering queries in person or via the Dental Monitoring app, checking in regularly with our specialists, Faiza and Richard.
How would you describe yourself?
Friendly, warm, solution-oriented.
Why orthodontics?
I qualified as a dental nurse but about five years ago decided I wanted a change. I went to a recruitment agency who were looking to place a dental nurse for Ewell Orthodontics. I knew this would be a good move. Orthodontics is so different from general dentistry and Ewell is local to where I live. Patients come here because they want treatment, not because they have toothache! When I came back from maternity leave in 2020, the job had been broadened to include the treatment co-ordinator role.
Outside of work?
I do not have much free time as my husband (a senior IT performance analyst) and I have a toddler. Adam was born in August 2020, on our wedding anniversary. At weekends we like to go out and explore the countryside. I love nature and to go for long walks.
Is there anything you would like to change?
The only thing I do not have enough time for is keeping fit. I am looking forward to being able to undertake some intensive exercise, when I have some time. Oh, and being able to read a book and see friends more. Otherwise, my life is a good blend of rewarding work and family time.
What do you take a pride in?
The reviews that patients leave on our Google business page are wonderful. They are so grateful for their treatment. I am very proud to play a part in making patients happy.
Carly O’Mahony
Treatment Coordinator & Orthodontic Nurse
G.D.C. No: 121674
Carly O’Mahony
Five minutes with Carly
Carly is one of our two treatment co-ordinators and at the ready to answer any queries our patients might have. Here she explains the seamless teamworking at Ewell Orthodontics
How long have you been a dental nurse?
It’s hard to believe, I know, but in 2022 I am celebrating 30 years as a dental nurse! My training was in London and my earliest practical experience was acquired in an NHS dental practice. I worked in loads of different clinics and hospitals. Coincidentally, I met Faiza when she was also working in the community service as part of her training as a dentist. We kept in touch and many years later she would provide orthodontic treatment for my two daughters.
What brought you to work at Ewell?
It was sheer chance. The dental practice where I was working was being taken over and I knew it was time to look for another job. I sent a message to Faiza and asked: ‘Are you looking for a dental nurse?’ Faiza replied: “Actually, I am!”
What do you do for Ewell Orthodontics?
I started as a dental nurse and then last year took on the role of treatment co-ordinator too. I job-share with Agata. My days as a treatment co-ordinator are Tuesdays and Thursday. On those days, I am the person who will respond to any communication with patients. If they decide to book for a consultation, I will try and make a point of being in the practice to chat to them. If I can’t be, Agata will be there so the patient is always looked after by one of us.
How do you choose the orthodontist best suited to the patient?
We will usually have a chat and I don’t know how we do it, but we always get it right. Our patients are consistently happy with both their clinician and their treatment.
How would you describe yourself?
Organised, professional, friendly.
Why orthodontics?
There is a great atmosphere here. Our patients are happy to come to the practice and have treatment. This is different from a dental practice where patients are often anxious or stressed. I like being a dental nurse and have always enjoyed my job.
Outside of work?
My husband – of 19 years – and I have two grown-up daughters, one training to be a social worker and the other a trained hairdresser who lives at home. We also have a dog – a chug, half pug and half chihuahua – so I am often out walking, and I do yoga several times a week.
What do you take a pride in?
Being organised and being part of such a great team at Ewell Orthodontics. We are all supportive of each other and help each other out.
Carly was interviewed about her work by the publication Dental Nursing
Debbie Richards
Receptionist
Debbie Richards
Five minutes with Debbie
One of our three part-time receptionists, Debbie is also an ambassador for us as she is a patient at the practice
How long have you worked at Ewell Orthodontics?
I started here in 2019. A friend of mine knows Carly and it was through her I found out there was a job available here. At the time I was a receptionist in a GP practice and ready to try something different.
What made you decide to go ahead with braces?
My teeth have always been crowded. Then I noticed that they were moving – and not in the right direction and something needed to be done! Now that I have started my treatment, I can’t believe I waited so long. I am so glad I took the plunge.
Have there been any drawbacks?
At first my husband was surprised I wanted to wear braces but he has noticed my teeth are moving and he is happy. I have to avoid curries as I am wearing aesthetic braces which can stain the bands. But that is the only downside.
What is the best aspect of having straighter teeth?
Firstly, my daughter got engaged at Christmas so I am really pleased that my smile will look great for the wedding photos. Secondly, it’s great to be an ambassador for the practice. Patients like to hear about my experience in braces.
How would you describe yourself?
Friendly, happy and smiley
Tell us about your family?
My husband is a train driver, so he often does weekend work. This means we can spend time together midweek on the days I don’t work. We have a daughter who works in admin who is getting married in 2023, so exciting times ahead.
Sarah Drayson
Receptionist
Sarah Drayson
Five minutes with Sarah
One of three part-time receptionists, Sarah is building her knowledge of orthodontics, and enjoying it!
How long have you worked at Ewell Orthodontics?
I joined the team in the summer of 2021 at the same time as Mel (Melanie Grimshaw). We now work in a three-way job share with Debbie (Richards).
What did you do before you joined Ewell Orthodontics?
I worked as a receptionist at an optician’s for five years. I had got used to knowing about eyes and now I have switched to teeth!
Have you always been a receptionist?
I have always had a job which involves helping people. For several years, when my own children were young, I was a child-minder. Before that, I worked in travel.
How would you describe yourself?
I like looking after people and I like to be busy. One month at home during the pandemic was enough!
Tell us about your family?
My husband has a building services company, and we have two daughters.
What do you most enjoy?
I like going for long walks with friends, going to the theatre, socialising.
What do you like most about your job?
I like working with people, and where no two days are the same. That is certainly true of this job where I look after people in different ways and the reception team all support each.
Melanie Grimshaw
Receptionist
Melanie Grimshaw
Five minutes with Melanie
One of three part-time receptionists, Melanie felt at home the very first time she walked into Ewell Orthodontics
How long have you worked here?
I joined in the summer of 2021. I saw an advertisement for a part-time receptionist and applied. As soon as I walked in through the door, I loved it. The environment is fresh, white and professional. Carly gave me a tour and I met Faiza and they were friendly and welcoming. I was really pleased to have got the job.
What did you do before you worked here?
I worked in a GP practice and before that, I worked in travel for 30 years.
How would you describe yourself?
Cheery and sociable.
Tell us about your family?
My husband is a carpenter, and we have two daughters aged 21 and 18. The older daughter is at university studying to be a primary school teacher and the younger is doing an apprenticeship in a school.
What do you like to do outside work?
I like baking, trying out new recipes. I have to balance out the calories with exercise! We have a dog – a cross between a toy poodle and a Maltese terrier – so lots of walking and I do a regular online exercise class. I get sent recordings of the classes, but I have to pretend it’s live or I would take a more relaxed approach!
What is the best thing about work?
We all work well as a team. It’s a friendly and relaxing place to be.
Chantel Amundson
Hygienist
G.D.C No. 208038