It was 8 years ago that Dutch dentist Indra Rampersad opened a private squat in Berwick on Tweed and last night I joined the guests to celebrate as she cut the ribbon on the first Digital Dental Suite in The Borders.
I walked back to my hotel at 21:00 last night, taking a long route to enjoy some fresh air, and hardly passed a soul or saw a car.
Berwick is that kind of place, busy with tourism during the summer as the curious retrace the steps of Salford artist L. S. Lowry, enjoy the town’s significant role in the history of England and Scotland and explore the delights of the Northumberland coastline, the River Tweed and the Kielder Forest.
Winter in towns like Berwick can be a lonely business.
Surely nobody can build a private squat in a location like this?
Especially when there are other practices in town and the locals take to strangers slowly (even the English strangers)?
Indra brings two qualities to counter that conversation:
- patience
- determination
Eight years to build a team, a patient base and enough momentum to invest in new technology.
The new suite is made up of a purpose-built consultation room, a photography room and a top of the range CBCT scanner and, last night, they were showing the guests how the Cerec works, strategically placed in the patient lounge.
Typically of Indra, there were no grand displays; just a brief and rather quiet speech to thank everyone who over the years has supported her in a quest for excellence.
This morning, of course, the work begins – making the suite earn a living.
I have no doubt it will because behind it is one indomitable lady and a very special team of people.
Congratulations to you all at Berwick Smile Dental Care.
p.s. just wait until I show you their new treatment plan presentation box – it’s very different.
