Meet The Team

*Pain Free Dentist Edinburgh

Our mission is to deliver pain free dentistry to the people of Edinburgh

Our *Pain Free Certified Team

Nik Vourakis

Nik Vourakis is a Certified Pain Free Dentist Click Here to Verify

Samuel G Lockhart

Samuel G Lockhart is a Certified Pain Free Dentist Click Here to Verify

Shiona R Rees

Shiona R Rees is a Certified Pain Free Dentist Click Here to Verify

Jasmine Tolat

Jasmine Tolat is a Certified Pain Free Dentist Click Here to Verify

Edward Ross

Edward Ross is a Certified Pain Free Dentist Click Here to Verify

Moon Kazi

Moon Kazi is a Certified Pain Free Therapist Click Here to Verify

Meet your *Pain Free Dentists

Links Dental Practice | Meet The Pain Free Team

Nik Vourakis

*Pain Free Dentist. GDC No. 268460

Dr Vourakis special interest and main qualification is in Oral Implantology while he has wide experience in all forms of dentistry.

Nik has been a practising dental surgeon since 2005 after graduating from the prestigious Military Academy Medical School at the University of Thessaloniki, Greece. For 2 years he undertook training at the Oral and Maxillofacial Department in 401 Military Hospital in Athens. As a military dental surgeon, he then went on to serve as a team leader in a field hospital in Afghanistan from 2006-2007 – an experience which shaped his commitment and dedication to his chosen field.

On returning to Greece, Nik opened his own private dental practice which he ran with great success from 2007 -2016, specialising in oral surgery implants and aesthetic dentistry. Since early 2017 Nik has been practising oral surgery in private clinics in Edinburgh and London.

Nik has regularly and dedicatedly attended further education programs, seminars, workshops and courses both nationally and internationally. He has a Post Graduate Diploma in Oral Implantology from Ethnikon Kapodistriakon University of Athens and a Master of Science Degree(MSc) in Oral Implantology from Goethe University of Frankfurt, Germany. These masterclass courses involved a variety of procedures ranging from master courses in bone grafting and sinus surgery grafting procedures through soft tissue management to implantology, prosthetics and dental aesthetics.

In 2018 he started a mentoring program for general dentists in Oral Implantology and he is an opinion leader for DENTSPLY Sirona. He is a registered ITI member. In 2018 he was a finalist for the Dentist of the Year award at The Dental Awards UK.

Edward M Ross

*Pain Free Dentist. GDC No. 64265

Eddie qualified in 1989 from the now sadly departed Edinburgh Dental School. Eddie was fortunate to be accepted as a Vocational Trainee when this was still a voluntary scheme. For this and many of his interests and techniques in dentistry, he owes much to his then trainer, former partner and friend, Iain Stewart.

Often seen around the practice with tools in hand, he is clearly happiest when fixing things; be it in his surgery, at the practice or at home. As for his time off, any activity where there is a hill or water is sure to see him return to the surgery, as he puts it, “generally quite enthusiastic”.

Within his surgery, he enjoys nothing more than rehabilitating a mouth in need of assistance and never more so when helping patients with a fear or anxiety of dental care.

Samuel G Lockhart

*Pain Free Dentist. GDC No. 258215

Sam graduated from the University of Glasgow in 2015. After his training year in East Kilbride he went on to Dundee spending his time treating anxious children in the public dental service and then to Dundee dental hospital to carry out a mixture of training in restorative dentistry and oral surgery.

He then went on to train for a further year in the Maxillofacial department in Glasgow’s Queen Elizabeth University Hospital which involved assisting with major surgeries in both oncology and trauma.

He moved to Edinburgh and has been in general practice since 2018. He particularly enjoys cosmetic treatment and likes to provide his dentistry in a calm, relaxed manner.

In his free time he enjoys playing and watching football and dining out around Edinburgh.

Shiona R Rees

*Pain Free Dentist. GDC No. 66516

Graduating from Glasgow Dental School back in 1991, Shiona worked at Glasgow Dental School in oral surgery and oral medicine before completing vocational training in general practice. Returning to the hospital side of dentistry Shiona worked in London and Glasgow in Maxillofacial surgery, oral surgery and oral radiology gaining her fellowship in oral surgery, before commencing a doctorate in oral medicine…

Jasmine Tolat

*Pain Free Dentist. GDC No. 229450

Jasmine is an enthusiastic individual who strives for perfection in her job. She wishes to provide her patients with a caring and preventative service completed to the highest standard. Her main interests lie in cosmetic and minimally invasive dentistry, including straightening teeth and composite bonding. She is an experienced Invisalign and clear aligner provider…

Apil Timilsina

*Pain Free Dentist. GDC No. 261917

Dr. Timilsina is a general dentist with special interest in Invisalign, composite bonding, teeth whitening and other minimally invasive cosmetic dental procedures. He has over 15 years of experience in dentistry and has completed several postgraduate qualifications including Masters of Special Care Dentistry from the prestigious Kings College London in 2015. This qualification has enabled him to make his patients…

Julie Burke

Oral Surgeon GDC No. 71144

Julie has been carrying out oral surgery procedures since 1997 after graduating from Leeds Dental Hospital in 1995. She has been a registered specialist in oral surgery since 2008 and has been providing sedation for the management anxious patients or those undergoing more complex surgical procedures for over 20 years!

Julie lives in Edinburgh and is married with 2 children who are 2 and 10 years old and has a sausage dog called Bertie. Outside of dentistry Julie loves walking, jogging (slowly) and cycling in the Pentland Hills not far from her home.

Moon Kazi

* Pian Free Dental Therapist GDC 301749

Moon graduated as a dental hygiene-therapist at the University of Edinburgh, the only four-year honours degree in this subject in Scotland. She completed a year of work experience in Fife before taking a full time position in Edinburgh. As a hygiene-therapist Moon provides treatment for children and adults, in non-surgical periodontal therapy and restorative dentistry…

Shufan Tran

Practice Manager

A graduate from The University of Edinburgh with a degree in Biomedical Sciences, Shufan soon realised being a scientist wasn’t quite for her! Shufan joined the Links Dental Practice in 2021, attracted by the practice’s strong ethos on teamwork and providing patient care in a stress-free environment…

Sarah Walker

Treatment Coordinator

Sarah is a graduate from the University of Strathclyde with a degree in Law, however very quickly realised it wasn’t going to be like the programme ‘Suits’ life she was looking for! Sarah joined Links in 2024, and after having a background in recruitment and customer service realised this was the role she was looking for as she enjoys social interaction with patients and helping them gain their perfect smile…

Jean Dodd

Dental Nurse/Admin – GDC No. 155260

Jean qualified as Dental Nurse in 1982 and has been a Dental Administrator/Nurse at the practice since December 2020.

She was a dedicated member of her previous practice for 38 years until October 2020 when she joined her new work family at Links.

In her spare time she loves nothing more than creating… doing anything crafty!

Agata Trojanowska

Dental Nurse. GDC No. 274273

Agata is a Dental Nurse at Links Dental Practice. Agata came to Scotland from Poland in 2010 and has been a team member at the dental practice since 2021. Qualifying as a Dental Hygienist at a medical college in Poland in 2003, Agata then attended the Mentor Training Centre in Glasgow, qualifying as a Dental Nurse in 2014.

Assisting with a wide variety of treatments and day-to-day jobs, Agata really enjoys her work. In her free time Agata enjoys running, cycling, and spending time with family.

Rita Gautam

Dental Nurse. GDC No. 295228

Rita is a Dental Nurse at Links Dental Practice. She qualified as a Dental Hygienist at a dental college in Nepal 2011, before moving to Scotland in 2012. She previously worked in a shop, then as a beauty therapist before attending the Mentor Training Centre in Glasgow and qualifying as a Dental Nurse in 2021.

Rita’s day consists of assisting with a wide variety of treatments and day-to-day jobs. She really enjoys her work, interacting with new people, and trying to make the work environment as pleasant as possible.

In her spare time, she enjoys walking, reading, watching tv and spending time with her lovely family.

April

Dental Nurse. GDC No. 316836

April joined Links in December 2021 as a Trainee Dental Nurse. April chose her new career as she is a very caring and practical person and her previous background in Beauty Therapy has given her lots of experience with this.

In her spare time she enjoys hill climbing, walks on the beach and spending time with family.

Bethany

Trainee Dental Nurse

Bethany joined Links Dental Practice as a Trainee Dental Nurse in March 2023. After being in the Beauty industry for 5 years, she decided to change her career as she wanted to use her skills to offer support to patients. In her free time, she loves to travel , spend time with her friends and family and keeping up to date with the latest beauty/fashion trends.

Adelise Ali

Trainee Dental Nurse

Adelise joined the practice in August 2024 as our trainee dental nurse. She has always been passionate about pursuing a career in dental nursing. Her enthusiasm for helping people and interacting with patients makes her journey in the field both exciting and rewarding. Adelise thrives in an organised environment and enjoys meeting new people, ensuring that every patient feels supported and comfortable.

Outside of work, Adelise enjoys spending quality time with her beloved dogs, Angel and Poppy.

Freya Johnston

Front of House Reception

I recently joined the Links Dental Practice team, and I am thoroughly enjoying it as the team are incredibly friendly and welcoming. I will be fulfilling my Front of House role here, as well as completing my fourth year in Mass Communications at Edinburgh Napier University.
In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym, playing netball, and going on outdoor adventures over the weekends. All of which usually end in grabbing a coffee and a piece of cake at a cute café!

Check Out Our Latest Patient Reviews

Links Dental Practice

4.8

Based on 223 reviews

I required root canal treatment and an extraction. I was treated promptly and both jobs were completed quickly, efficiently and painlessly by Sam Lockhart. Moreover, my three visits were, if not fun, at least enjoyable. I was kept informed at all stages and entertained by Sam’s humour. This is dentistry at its best.

John G.

Recently attended for regular appointment with dental hygienist. Staff are always friendly and pleasant and I was seen on time. Clean bill of health was a bonus as well!

Karen E.

I had Invisalign, whitening, and veneers done at Links Dental with Dr. Sam Lockhart, and it was an incredible experience. I had struggled with my teeth for such a long time, but in less than a year, everything was fixed! The transformation is truly amazing, and I can’t thank Dr. Sam enough for his perfectionism and attention to detail throughout the process.All treatments were carried out to a high standard, and I am absolutely happy with the results. I’ve also had routine treatments at Links Dental, which were relaxed and completely pain-free. The team does everything to ensure your comfort by offering options to reduce discomfort, like headphones with music to block out the sound of the drill—perfect for anyone who feels uneasy at the dentist.For the first time, I’m no longer stressed about dental visits! I highly recommend Links Dental, and especially Dr. Sam Lockhart, for anyone looking for top-quality dental care.

Anna S.

Very pleased with the result of my treatmentI was always reluctant to smile as front teeth were unsightly. After 2 hours of pain free treatment the transformation was incredible

Heather S.

Links Dental is fantastic. My visits to the practice are always so comfortable and relaxing. The team are all wonderful and Dr Jasmin talks me through everything as she goes which I find extremely helpful. Couldn’t be happier with my treatment plan.

Kara T.

I’ve had a chipped tooth for a few years now and Dr. Sam asked me if I wanted to have this fixed up. It only took a short amount of time, no pain at all and I honestly can’t believe the difference it’s made to my smile! Brilliant!

David C.

A very pleasurable visit. (esp. to a dentist). Treatment was courteous and highly professional. Reception was friendly and appointment timing was spot on.

ian D.

My new dentist Jasmine wss friendly and welcoming.She took great trouble to check all my teeth (gently) and showed me them on a screen(fascinating) whilst explaining the work which needed to be done.Because I could clearly see my teeth..this all made sense to me.While lying back in the dentist's chair i also enjoyed watching a gorgeous travel film of Italy (no sound) which was v relaxing.I would highly recommend.

Ali O.

My experience with Dr. Sam has been outstanding. From my first visit, his warm welcome and the clinic’s calming atmosphere put me at ease. Dr. Sam is patient, thorough, and always takes the time to explain each step, which makes a real difference. His attention to detail and genuine care create a truly positive experience every time, and I always leave feeling satisfied and confident that I’m in expert hands. I’m still continuing my treatment with him, and I honestly couldn’t recommend him more to anyone seeking a skilled and compassionate dentist. He’s completely transformed my view of dental care, and I’m incredibly grateful!Tesnim 🙂

Dorr L.

Thank you for removing my tooth. It involved a lot of work which was carefully administered by the dental team. Although apprehensive I was put at ease by the courteous and professional approach.

John E.

Sam ( dentist) and Moon (hygienist) gave 5 star treatment today. So at ease answering questions, sorting issues and providing advice. A fabulous dental experience, so refreshing!

Jo L.

Mr Ross has been an excellent dentist and will be greatly missed. His honest guidance in treatment has been so helpful and his integrity and compassionate approach, an example of true commitment to his patients. Thank you Mr Ross!

Sarah S.

Had a great experience at Links dental practice. Moon was so friendly and professional! Pain-free hygienist appointment which surprised me! Would highly recommend!

Anna H.

Have been a patient of Links Dental practice, and Mr (Dr) Ross for more years than I care to remember, excellent treatment. Thank you, good luck for the future.

Paul L.

A crown popped out after a couple of days of tender niggling leaving a hole into the root. I was very fortunate to get an ‘unscheduled’ appointment the day after calling in about it, though not with my usual dentist as she was on annual leave.Dr/Mr Ross was so kind and gentle, probing in exactly the right spots with his instrument- I knew I was in the hands of an experienced expert. He took time to check every detail and make sure the reinserted crown was sitting just right, whilst explaining every step. I just felt he didn’t miss a thing, even though it was a simple enough dentistry job. I’ve had crowns reinserted before but this time was memorable.. excellent dentistry. Thankyou, Mr Ross!

Alice B.

I have been coming to Links Dental Practice for 32 years!!, since the beginning of the Practice, and today was my last check up with Mr Ross before his upcoming retirement. Edward Ross has looked after my family’s teeth exclusively and expertly all that time, and it’s a very welcoming environment to come to.Thank you for everything, happy retirement, and we’ll be continuing with our dental care at Links Dental Practice.Anita Cullinan

anita C.

Great service from Apil and Rita. My first major dental work in a long time so was quite apprehensive and they made the process as pleasant as possible.

Scott

A big thank you to Jasmine and the whole team who were always very friendly and helpful. Jasmine is excellent, friendly and approachable whilst being extremely skilful and professional.Overall I am so pleased with my Invisalign treatment and back to smiling again. 😊

Sara R.

Great as always. Lovely, friendly staff.Process well explained and went well.Great staff as usual, reception, dental assistant through to the actual dentist.

Graham H.

Shiona is always exceptionally professional and puts me at my ease at all times,ensuring I know what is happening and that I am pain free I feel very lucky to have her as my dentist

Susan R.

Incredibly good results working with Sam Lockhart using clear aligners to straighten my wonky teeth - 7 months and we’re done and dusted, my teeth are lovely and straight, I’m way less awkward about my smile . Would highly recommend.

HANNAH K.

Very professional. I got a filling today and was very fast and only felt pain one time then was painless for the rest of the appointment. Would recommend this dentist if you don’t usually like dentists.

Emma M.

Excellent practice and dental work. I was fortunate enough to be treated by Dr. Lockhart when I lost a filling during my holiday in Edinburgh. If I lived here, Links Dental would definitely be my first choice due to the highly skilled and kind and pain-free care.Thank you

Venessa B

I have been a customer of Links Dental practice since the late eighties. During that time, I have been treated exceptionally well, with my teeth maintained in very good condition. I wish to thank Dr Ross for his professionalism and I also wish him a happy retirement, which I believe will be happening towards the end of the year.

William D.

I have just had quite a large procedure of having a new front crown fitted, Jasmine was absolutely wonderful, very attentive and pain free she made sure that I was absolutely happy before we continued, thank you so much Jasmine for making a big procedure so much easier. I would also like to thank Bethany who assisted Jasmine all throughout my treatment and was absolutely wonderful, you will make a good Dentist Bethany. I absolutely love my new smile. Many thanks, Colin

Colin F.

Dentist Jasmine Tolat is a great dentist to go to with kids, she just seems to know how to get them relaxed. As adults very happy with her too, gives advice, very considerate and really cares. Def recommend Links.

ACM

Sincere thanks to Sam and the lovely Luca.I was so nervous and anxious.They were both so patient with making me feel more at ease.Sam went over my options at great length explaining everything to me and I am happy with what we’ve decided.Both so friendly kind and professional.Thank you both so much.D W

Diane W.

I was very well looked after very helpful and friendly staff & attentive & professionalalso explained what procedures they were doing. & how I can keep my teeth & gums in good health.Mr George. Henderson.

george H.

All of the staff are always really friendly and professional. This morning I saw Moon, the Hygienist, very ably assisted by Bethany, the Dental technician. They worked together effortlessly, never bumping into each other and making the whole procedure pain free and comfortable. I never felt like I was drowning, my gums and tongue where never sucked into the aspirator, and my teeth feel great afterwards. I am really lucky to have such a talented team so close to my home.

danielle G.

Having just had a wisdom tooth removed I can honestly say the whole experience was most definitely a positive one. Mr. Ross took lots of time to explain the procedure knowing i was somewhat nervous. After a short period of time the offending tooth was removed completely painlessly. I am so impressed. I can only speak highly of Links Dental Practice and all of the friendly and helpful staff. I can thoroughly recommend them....Gerry Martin

Gerry M.

I always feel looked after and more importantly experience a level of detailed examination and subsequent treatment that assures I get what’s needed. As someone who’s scared of dentists, they remove the fear. Thank you.

Dawnne M.

My dental health is so, so much better now than before I started attending the Links Dental Practice. The staff are very kind and careful about the treatment and always seem to be on time for appointments. I can't rate them more highly. All

Alan B.

As always, impeccable service, not just in terms of the actual treatment but with a friendly and efficient reception staff. I've lived long enough to have had some pretty dire early encounters with Scottish dentistry, so this quality of experience, delivered with patience and with highly professional standards is much appreciated.

Colin S.

I had my first 2 fillings this week with dentist Sam Lockhart. I was worried they would hurt as I've never had any procedures done - I can honestly say there was zero pain and it was a great experience. I'll never be worried about dental work again. Thank you!

Kim W.

I've only had 2 courses of treatment so far from Jasmine but have found her to be friendly, efficient and informative. She conducts her business very professionally but with a very good 'bedside manner', thus making the patient feel relaxed and confident. A very positive experience so far with my new dentist - keep up the good work!I originally posted the above about a year ago but can now confirm (having had several courses of treatment) that Jasmine has lived up to my expectations and initial assessment. She is a very good dentist, has a great reassuring manner and I have great respect for her. Jasmine and Bethany are a very good team, conducting business in an efficient and friendly way. All good!

Ken M.

Ed is the best dentist that I’ve ever had and I’ve had many after being given Tetracycline as a child which took the enamel from my adult teeth. He is very sympathetic to those people who are scared of the needle and drill. He works fast and efficiently whilst still allowing the patient to rest. I really can’t fault anything. He explains every procedure and helps you to make an informed decision which is best for you. He truly is the best.

Sue V.

I have been attending Ed and April's practice - Links Dental Practice, for many years, both as an NHS and private patient and have always been happy and satisfied with the attention and procedures I received. I have always been well looked after and even today they were able to take me for an emergency appointment, having only called them this morning. Great 5 star service always.

Julie A.

Jasmine made a lovely job of my crown. She was both friendly and professional. I always felt I was in capable hands and she explained each stage of the process and what I could expect. Very happy.

Hilary F.

I was initially sceptical about signing up for regular visitsto the dental hygeinist but am now an enthusiastic convert. Moon goes the extra mile, explaining clearly whats going on, taking the necessary action and then focussing on making my teeth look less grotty. Worth every penny.

Mary P.

Been using these guys for best part of 40 years. Brilliant place, same dentist for the whole time. Recently changed from NHS to private but still great with Edward Ross.

David W.

I finished my teeth alignment with Dr. Jasmine today. I am so excited to see my teeth neat and aligned, and everything goes smoothly where they are supposed to be. I would like to express my biggest thanks to Dr. Jasmine who is diligent, professional and highly experienced in her expertise. She is also a kind and patient dentist that kept track on all the details at every stage of my treatment. I also appreciate all the help and care from the whole team. Many thanks to Shufan and all the members on the reception who always contacted me on time to keep track on the treatment. Thanks to all of them, I finally got my biggest smile again with my aligned teeth. Hope the work of the whole team is going on well.

Yuanxin C.

I had an appointment with Dr. Moon-- It was a pain free experience, excellent quality of service, and I can't recommend her enough. I'm so so grateful, thanks a lot!

Anjali S.

Had dental treatment with Jasmine and she was fantastic. Warm, professional and exceptional care. Would definitely recommend her to anyone, you'll be in good hands

T F.

I have had some minor treatment recently with Dr Sam Lockhart, and I can't praise him enough for being such a wonderful, skilled dentist. He always takes time to explain what he is doing and my treatment was genuinely pain free. It's great to have a dentist you feel safe with.Sammy his dental assistant was also very good. Thanks to you both!Juliet

Dougie&Jules D.

I want to extend my sincerest thanks to Sam Lockhart (supremely decent, gifted dentist), Sammy (trainee assistant who is better than most trained assistants and with a truly caring approach to her profession) and the lovely receptionist from Asturias. You chaps saved my Christmas. We never met before and we may never meet again, but this was the most positively unforgettable visit to a dental surgery I have ever had in more than sixty years. I salute you. Merry Christmas and all the very best for 2024.

Tearlach Mac an T.

Links Dental Practice

Links Dental Practice, 101 Whitehouse Loan, Edinburgh EH9 1AT, United Kingdom

Providing *Pain Free Dentistry In Edinburgh

Telephone: 01315169278

Email: info@linksdentalpractice.co.uk

Monday 8:30am – 8:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am – 8:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Thursday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Friday 8:30am – 5:00pm
Saturday (alternate) 9:00am – 1:00pm

Cookie	Duration	Description
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional	11 months	The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy	11 months	The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.

*Pain Free Dentist Edinburgh

Our *Pain Free Certified Team

Nik Vourakis

Samuel G Lockhart

Shiona R Rees

Jasmine Tolat

Edward Ross

Moon Kazi

Meet your *Pain Free Dentists

Nik Vourakis

Edward M Ross

Samuel G Lockhart

Shiona R Rees

Jasmine Tolat

Apil Timilsina

Julie Burke

Moon Kazi

Meet the *Pain Free support team

Shufan Tran

Sarah Walker

Jean Dodd

Agata Trojanowska

Rita Gautam

April

Bethany

Adelise Ali

Freya Johnston

Ready to Love Your Smile?

Check Out Our Latest Patient Reviews

Links Dental Practice