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Greeted personally, treated personally

We are a team of caring, experienced dental professionals who use only the most advanced technologies, materials and procedures — in the heart of Newtown, Wellington.

Our Approach

A community-focused practice where your comfort comes first

See our services

We offer early morning and late evening appointments, so you don’t have to miss work or school for your care — something our team feels strongly about.

We pride ourselves on taking the time to listen and get to know each patient as an individual. The entire team looks forward to developing a relationship with you focused on long-term trust and successful dental care.

20+ years

Principal dentist experience

8

Dentists & oral health therapists

6+

Languages spoken in clinic

7 days

Open 8am–8:30pm

Our Team

Meet our doctors

Dr Rafid Salih

Owner & Principal Dentist

Dr. Rafid Salih (Ray)

BDS, NZDREX, PGDipClinDent (Otago)

Extensive experience across hospital, military and general practice dentistry in New Zealand and overseas. Over 20 years delivering a high standard of general dentistry, including comprehensive crown and bridge cases, root canal treatment and wisdom teeth removal.

Dr Graham Symes

Oral Surgery Interest

Dr. Graham Symes

BDS, MDS, FRACDS

An experienced general dental practitioner with a particular interest in oral surgery and the diagnosis and treatment of oral conditions. Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons, and previously owned a large central Wellington practice for over 20 years.

Dr Varsha Jeyaprakash

Aesthetic & Restorative

Dr. Varsha Jeyaprakash

BDS, NZDREX, MDent Aesthetics (Otago)

At Newtown Dental since 2015, with a Masters in aesthetic dentistry from Otago. Practices all scopes of dentistry with a special interest in cosmetic and restorative work, focused on comprehensive care delivered gently and patient-centred.

Dr Lakshmi Petikam

Preventative Dentistry

Dr. Lakshmi Petikam

BDS, Dr MGR Medical University, India, 1997

Practising across greater Wellington since 2003 and experienced in all facets of dental practice, with a focus on oral health and preventative dentistry. Known for a gentle manner and caring nature; enjoys long walks, singing and time with family.

Dr Minh Ton

English & Vietnamese

Dr. Minh Ton

DDS, INBDE, University of Oklahoma

Graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 2023 and relocated to New Zealand with her family. Interested in all aspects of dentistry, and dedicated to bringing a fun, positive experience to her patients — every patient deserves to know their dentist cares.

Dr David Wang

English & Mandarin

Dr. David Wang

BDS, The University of Otago, 2020

Graduated from the University of Otago in 2020 and began his career in the capital. Interested in all aspects of dentistry, especially oral surgery and restorative work. Enjoys travelling and experiencing different cultures.

Hygiene & Prevention

Meet our oral health therapists

Vanessa Kong

Vanessa Kong

Oral Health Therapist · English & Mandarin

A Wellingtonian with a Bachelor of Oral Health from Otago. Takes a calm, compassionate approach to dental anxiety and provides personalised care so every patient feels heard, respected and involved.

Abhishek Kumar

Abhishek Kumar

Oral Health Therapist

Trained at the University of Otago and passionate about patient-centred care — from preventive and restorative treatment for young patients to supporting patients with gum disease toward long-term oral health.

Our Staff

Our friendly staff is our greatest asset

All of our dental assistants and hygienists are licensed professionals who pride themselves on current dental techniques and outstanding patient communication. With unmatched quality and integrity, they are dedicated to achieving the best possible results for you and your family.

Since your comfort and health are our top priorities, our team is glad to assist with anything — from treatment options and sterilisation to payment and paperwork.

Reception team assisting a patient