Meet the team

Karina Fogarty

Practice Manager

Level 5 Diploma in Management & Leadership (ILM)

Karina joined the team in April 2019 and plays a key role in overseeing all areas of HR, customer service and day-to-day practice management. With extensive experience gained from working in both NHS and private dental practices, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the role.

Karina began her dental career in 1994 after passing the NEBDN (National Exam for Dental Nurses). She went on to complete further qualifications, including the SAAD course in dental sedation and an oral health education course.

In 2009, she was promoted to Practice Manager and later achieved the ILM Level 5 Diploma in Management & Leadership. In 2023, Karina proudly celebrated 30 years in the dental sector.

Known for her warm smile and upbeat, can-do attitude, Karina feels privileged to lead and work alongside such an exceptional team. Outside of work, she enjoys cruising holidays, quality time with her husband and daughter, Sunday worship and coastal walks.

Laurie Harper

Orthodontic Therapist

(Dip, Orth Ther RCSEd)
GDC: 180853

Laurie began her career in dentistry in 2007 and became a valued member of our team in January 2012. Over the years, she has gained additional qualifications, including the National Certificate in Dental Radiography and Orthodontic Nursing.

Most recently, Laurie completed her Diploma in Orthodontic Therapy at the University of Central Lancashire and is now a fully qualified Orthodontic Therapist. Her dedication to continued learning and professional development is reflected in the high standard of care she provides.

Laurie is known for her warm, friendly manner and her caring approach. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her friends.

Laura McDonnell-Horton

Orthodontic Therapist

(Dip, Orth Ther RCSEd)
GDC: 202231

Laura began her career in dentistry in 2008 and quickly discovered a passion for orthodontics. She went on to gain further qualifications in Dental Radiography in 2012 and Orthodontic Nursing in 2013.

She attended Bristol Dental Hospital in 2013 to study Orthodontic Therapy and graduated from the Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh. With her calm and friendly approach, Laura is particularly skilled at supporting nervous or anxious patients, helping them feel at ease.

She especially enjoys witnessing the joy and confidence that patients experience when their braces are removed and they see their new smile for the first time.

Emma Pether

Orthodontic Therapist

Dip. Orth Ther RCSEd
GDC: 225092

Emma joined our team in May 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a passion for orthodontic care. She began her dental career in general practice, earning her NVQ Level 3 in Dental Nursing in 2011.

Her interest in specialist care led her to Addenbrooke’s Hospital, where she worked alongside consultants in both Orthodontics and Maxillofacial Surgery. Emma later moved to Dorset County Hospital, where she completed her Diploma in Orthodontic Therapy in 2019.

Now back in Essex to be closer to her family, she continues to provide compassionate, high-quality care to every patient she sees. Outside of work, Emma enjoys reading, sunset strolls and spending time with friends.

Danielle Rennie

Lead Orthodontic Nurse

NVQ L3 Dental Nursing & VRQ L3 Dental Nursing City & Guilds 2010
GDC: 203962

Danielle qualified as a dental nurse in 2010 and spent 12 years building her career in Scotland before relocating to Colchester and joining our team. Danielle worked in general practice for five years, followed by seven years specialising in oral surgery, implantology, and sedation.

Most recently, Danielle has expanded her clinical skills by gaining a qualification in Dental Radiography, further enhancing the care she provides to patients.

Outside of work, Danielle enjoys socialising with friends and family, going on long walks and baking cupcakes.

Gemma Gethen

Orthodontic Nurse

NEBDN
GDC: 153100

Gemma qualified as a Dental Nurse in 2008. She went on to achieve her Certificate in Dental Radiography in 2009, followed by the NEBDN Orthodontic Nursing Certificate in 2010. She began working with Mr Davies in 2009, gaining valuable experience in orthodontic care.

In 2012, Gemma took time away from the practice to focus on raising her family, and in 2018, she was thrilled to rejoin the team at Colchester Orthodontic Centre.

Abi French

Orthodontic Nurse

Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing
GDC: 280786

Abi trained at Colchester Institute and qualified in 2018 with a Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing. She went on to expand her clinical skills, achieving a British Dental Association (BDA) Certificate in Dental Radiography in 2021.

Abi particularly enjoys meeting new patients and takes pride in helping them feel at ease, especially those who may feel nervous about starting their orthodontic journey. Outside of work, Abi enjoys staying active at the gym and lending a hand on her family’s farm.

Charlotte Kemp

Orthodontic Nurse

Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing
GDC: 289461

Charlotte joined Colchester Orthodontic Centre in August 2020, already familiar with the practice from her time as a patient. Her own positive experience with orthodontic treatment sparked a genuine passion for the field.

She began her dental nursing training in 2016 and qualified in 2018 with a Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing. For Charlotte, the most rewarding part of her role is seeing the transformation in a patient’s confidence, having once been too shy to smile in photos before her own treatment.

Outside of work, Charlotte is an avid traveller. From exploring the beaches of Thailand to witnessing the Northern Lights in Iceland, she’s always planning her next adventure.

Cole Gittens

Orthodontic Nurse

Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing
GDC: 318293

Cole recently moved to the area after qualifying as a dental nurse in Bedfordshire. He’s enthusiastic about growing his knowledge in orthodontics and enjoys being part of a supportive and friendly team.

In his free time, Cole enjoys gaming, watching great TV series, and diving into creative LEGO projects. He also enjoys spending time at home with his two cats Kylo and Obi (Named after the Star Wars characters).

Karen Ross

Lead Receptionist/Orthodontic Nurse

National Certificate NEBDSA 1992
GDC: 145651

Karen trained at Colchester Institute and qualified in 1992. Over her extensive career, she has gained diverse experience working in general practice, at Harley Street, within London Community services and alongside an oral surgeon.

Karen joined the team at Colchester Orthodontic Centre in July 2020. She particularly enjoys engaging with patients and witnessing their progress throughout treatment, finding great satisfaction in supporting their orthodontic journey.

At home, Karen stays busy raising two teenagers. In her downtime, she loves walking along the river, cycling and immersing herself in a good book.

Kura Dun

Practice Receptionist

Kura joined the team in October 2024 after moving from Ireland. She brings a warm, people-focused approach to her role. Kura loves helping patients achieve their dream smiles and thrives in the positive, team-oriented environment.

Outside of work, she enjoys gaming, exploring new cuisines, travelling, and spending time with friends discovering new places.

Emma Skellet

Treatment Coordinator

Emma joined Colchester Orthodontic Centre in October 2021, bringing with her valuable experience from working at a hotel spa reception. She thrives in the fast-paced environment of the practice, enjoying the opportunity to assist our lovely patients and support our amazing team.

Outside of work, Emma loves socialising, going for walks and home decor.