Joe qualified from Queen's University, Belfast, in 2000. He then relocated to Manchester to continue his education within the primary care field. After developing a keen interest in dental surgery, Joe joined a leading Manchester maxillo-facial unit enabling him to participate in major reconstructive surgery, notably by employing dental implants.
It was in this post that Joe gained his Membership of the Faculty of Dental Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh. Joe returned to his native Enniskillen in 2005 to take up a position in his family practice. He has continued with his postgraduate training achieving a Diploma in Implant Dentistry in addition to an advanced certificate representing his bone grafting capability. This was awarded by the Royal College of Surgeons in England and is considered to be the gold standard.
Joe also has travelled the world in order to learn new techniques including many trips to Germany, Spain and England. He spent a week studying in Brazil under one of the world's foremost authorities in cosmetic dentistry. This encompasses not only teeth, but takes into consideration gums, lips and facial harmony; all of which amounts to beautiful symmetrical and harmonious results. Joe is an active member of the Irish Association of Aesthetic Dentistry and is frequently travelling to various conferences around the world. As recognition of the high standard of Joe's treatment he was awarded the Best Young Dentist in Northern Ireland 2011.
Since then Joe has completed a yearlong course studying both restorative dentistry and the science of occlusion (how the teeth bite together); for many this is the cornerstone of predictable long-lasting dentistry. Following on from this Joe has started to develop his skills with the manipulation of the gums. This either involves sculpting overgrown and unsightly gums or grafting those gums that have receded. The shape of the gum is a vital aspect of creating the perfect smile. Joe is not one to sit still and is always looking to learn the latest techniques. In the age of digital dentistry, we can now use computer technology to not only design teeth but to also manufacture them on site within a few hours. Joe has completed a course on digital smile design that allows him to use a series of photos and videos to create the perfect smile without even having touched the teeth. Patients can therefore get a preview of their final smile before even embarking on the treatment journey.
Undoubtedly continual professional development is exceptionally important to Joe and this is unlikely to change anytime soon. However, Joe is also active in helping others with their own development. He will often lead restorative evenings to help mentor referring dentists with both surgical and implant dentistry. Whether they are interested just to stay abreast of latest developments or if they want to get their hands dirty, Joe will always be available for advice, guidance or just a helping hand.
In 2017 Joe was privileged to be invited to become a Fellow of the International College of Dentistry. Those inducted into the college must have proven themselves academically within their chosen field or to have been an active philanthropist.
