Dr Mike Tonkes (Otago)

“I’m passionate about what I do and I treat my patients how I would like to be treated myself. My main aim is to help people keep their teeth for life, and at Gentle Dental, we have the experience and technology to do exactly that.” Mike graduated from Otago University in 1998, after which he returned home to Wellington, with his Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS). Mike spent the next three years working and training in the Maxillofacial Unit at the Lower Hutt Hospital, alongside Wellington’s best Oral Surgeons; as their Dental Registrar, he learned skills from simple extractions to fixing broken jaws. After a short stint in outback Australia, Mike joined the Gentle Dental Centre in 2002. He is a general dentist with a special interest in Orthodontic treatments, including Braces and Invisalign. He has experience in most aspects of dentistry, making him a valuable clinical team member. Mike became a partner in 2010, and is committed to growing and developing an already well-known brand; he played an instrumental role in the setup of the Gentle Dental new branch practice in Lambton Quay and, more recently, Upper Hutt. Mike believes in providing quality dentistry with a gentle touch and is committed to helping patients keep their teeth for life. Over the years, this has ensured his clients return to him time and time again, and in 2007, he was voted “Wellington’s Best Dentist” by listeners of The Breeze radio station. “I like to explain what I’m going to do before I do it. It helps my patients to relax and feel at ease.” “I enjoy being part of a big team. We have a huge range of different skills and combined experience; we can discuss cases and get second opinions from each other. This is a huge advantage of working at Gentle Dental so your standards stay high, and your work is constantly being viewed by your colleagues.” Mike is a member of the New Zealand Dental Association (NZDA). Outside of work, Mike enjoys spending time with family (3 daughters and 1 son), holidays and great food! If time permits, he also enjoys cooking and doing DIY projects!