About us

Daniel Cattell

Dan’s passion for dentistry is instantly apparent. He has been part of Gentle Dentistry for over 20 years — first as an associate and, since 2015, as owner. His dedication to excellence has taken him around the world to learn from leading specialists, enabling him to offer the most advanced and comprehensive care in-house with results that look and feel completely natural.

Known for his caring nature and good humour, Dan combines state-of-the-art technology — including the painless Quicksleeper anaesthetic system and wireless headphones with ceiling TV — with meticulous skill and patience. Many patients feel so comfortable they drift off to sleep during treatment (snoring welcome!).

Dan graduated from the University of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne in 2000, winning the AstraZeneca Award for Excellence in Clinical Dentistry, and completed his Diploma in Postgraduate Dental Studies at the University of Bristol in 2007. He has been a finalist in the Dentist of the Year Awards and is trusted by fellow dentists for their own care.

Outside of work, Dan enjoys spending time with his family, running, long-distance cycling, and cooking in his wood-fired oven.

Dr Dimitrios “Dimi” Papalexiou

Meet Dr Dimitrios “Dimi” Papalexiou – Dentist
Dr Dimitrios “Dimi” Papalexiou is a highly skilled and compassionate dentist who brings both precision and empathy to every patient interaction. A graduate of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Dimi began his career in 2015 as a military dentist before relocating to the UK, where he continues to provide exceptional care.

Over the years, Dimi has developed a deep passion for all aspects of dentistry—from everyday care to life-changing smile transformations—always delivered with kindness, thoughtfulness, and the gentlest touch.

In 2023, Dimi completed a Master’s degree in Oral Surgery at the University of Central Lancashire, further strengthening his expertise. He has a particular interest in implant dentistry and is committed to staying at the forefront of the field through continuous learning and professional development.

Dimi is known not only for his clinical excellence but also for his dedication to mentoring junior staff and creating a supportive, collaborative environment. His patients and colleagues alike value his calm, reassuring manner and thorough, patient-centred approach.

Outside the clinic, Dimi enjoys exploring new places with his fiancée, Marietta. He is currently finalising plans for their wedding in Greece next year and, closer to home, loves discovering Dorset’s best Sunday roasts. He lives by Aristotle’s timeless wisdom: “Excellence is not an act but a habit.”

Jayne Booker

Jayne qualified as a dental nurse in 1988 and subsequently advanced her career by studying Dental Hygiene. She graduated from the Eastman Dental Hospital in 1996, where she was honoured with the Student Award for Dental Health Education.

Since joining Gentle Dentistry in 2006, Jayne has brought her extensive experience from various dental settings, including hospital-based supportive therapy for patients with head and neck cancer.

She particularly enjoys helping patients with challenging gum conditions and has a natural talent for putting nervous patients at ease. Jayne possesses an exceptional depth of knowledge in periodontal health and continually stays up-to-date with the latest research and developments to provide the best care possible.

Outside of work, Jayne is passionate about stand-up paddleboarding, travelling, and spending quality time with friends and family. She also has a special fondness for Italian views and cuisine.

Teresa Hurley

Teresa qualified as a Dental Hygienist and Therapist from the University of Birmingham in 2020 and has been dedicated to supporting patients in achieving healthier smiles ever since.

She is passionate about patient education and believes that the foundation of good oral health starts at home. Teresa takes great care in empowering patients with simple, effective routines they can confidently incorporate into their daily lives to prevent gum disease and maintain long-term dental health.
Understanding that many people feel nervous about dental visits, Teresa’s calm, gentle manner helps even the most anxious patients feel at ease. She takes time to listen, explain, and guide—creating a safe, supportive environment for each individual she treats.
Outside of the clinic, Teresa enjoys spending time outdoors with family and friends, staying active at the gym, and exploring her creative side. She loves all things hands-on—from jewellery making and glass blowing to pottery painting and other crafty adventures

Izzy Cattell

Izzy qualified as a Dental Hygienist in 2003 in Łódź, Poland, and moved to the UK in 2004. She began her career in London’s prestigious Harley Street as a Dental Nurse before relocating to Bournemouth, where she became a Senior and Training Nurse—teaching all aspects of dental assisting, including advanced-level implant surgery.

Radiographically qualified, Izzy is skilled in taking precise 3D bone scans using our state-of-the-art CBCT technology. Today, she is the Practice Manager and Co-Owner of Gentle Dentistry, where she ensures the clinic runs smoothly and patients receive the highest standard of care.

Izzy’s calm, welcoming presence is matched by her wealth of experience, making patients feel instantly at ease and fully supported throughout their visit.

Outside of dentistry, Izzy enjoys caring for her growing collection of houseplants and cultivating fresh herbs. Her passion for design and creativity shines through in all that she does—whether it’s organising the practice or taking on a new creative project.

In her free time, she enjoys being outdoors, practicing mobility exercises, and spending quality time with her family. She’s also a devoted dog mum to Peggy and Jetson, who keep her on her toes and bring endless joy to her day.

Katie Leaton

Katie joined Gentle Dentistry in 2008, shortly after qualifying as a dental nurse with an NVQ Level 3 in 2007. Since then, she has become a cornerstone of the team, known for her warm, approachable nature and unwavering commitment to patient care.

Katie now enjoys her role as Clinical Manager, where she helps keep the practice running smoothly and supports the team in delivering outstanding care. She takes great pride in making sure every patient’s experience is calm, comfortable, and stress-free. Her friendly presence and genuine desire to help others make her a much-loved part of the Gentle Dentistry experience.

Outside the clinic, Katie leads a busy life as a proud mum to three young children. She enjoys walking, staying active, and getting involved in family sports—especially supporting her children on the sidelines as an enthusiastic football mum.

Maya Chan

Maya began her career in dentistry in 2016 and joined the Gentle Dentistry team as a valued member in 2018. Passionate about every aspect of dental care, Maya brings energy, skill, and dedication to everything she does—nothing is ever too much for her.

Since joining, Maya has grown into her role as Head Nurse and achieved her NEBDN Diploma in Radiography for Dental Nurses, enabling her to assist clinicians with advanced imaging and support more complex treatments.

She works closely with all members of the clinical team and has developed advanced skills across the full range of services offered at the practice. Maya also mentors and supports fellow nurses, helping them grow in confidence and capability.

Her favourite part of dentistry is engaging with patients—witnessing their confidence grow and being part of their journey as their smiles are transformed. She’s proud to be part of the Gentle Dentistry family and excited to continue developing her career in such a dynamic and caring environment.

Outside of work, Maya enjoys staying active with regular workouts and has a keen passion for fashion. She also loves getting creative with interior design and is currently enjoying the process of designing and doing up her new home.

Giovanni Urbani

Originally from Venezuela, Giovanni is a dedicated and compassionate dental nurse with a genuine passion for patient care. His calm, friendly manner helps put patients at ease, while his attention to detail ensures every aspect of treatment runs smoothly behind the scenes.

Outside the clinic, Giovanni is a talented home cook who enjoys experimenting with flavours from his Venezuelan/Italian roots. He also finds peace in nature, enjoys reading, and loves spending time outdoors or relaxing at home with his two beloved cats.

A true all-rounder, Giovanni plays the ukulele, is multilingual, and stays active by playing sports whenever he can. Whether he’s assisting in a dental procedure, creating a new recipe, or picking up a new skill, Giovanni brings care, creativity, and kindness to everything he does.