Meet the dental team in Norwich

Dr Alba Torrado-Varela is a dedicated and compassionate dentist originally from Spain. She moved to Norwich in 2010 and has since built a strong reputation in the region, joining Friends Dental Practice in July 2023. Alba’s journey into dentistry began at a young age when she required complex orthodontic treatment. Visiting the dental practice every 6-8 weeks for four years, she experienced first-hand the transformative power of a confident smile and the profound impact of a supportive dental team. This experience ignited her passion for dentistry and set her on the path to becoming a dentist.

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Alba is deeply committed to providing patient-centered care, with a focus on having open and honest conversations with her patients. She believes in finding the best-suited treatment options for each individual, prioritizing patient comfort and building strong relationships. Her gentle manner and empathetic approach make her particularly skilled at calming even the most nervous patients, ensuring a positive experience for everyone who visits her practice.

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While Dr Alba enjoys all aspects of general and restorative dentistry, she is particularly drawn to the variety and dynamism these fields offer. In 2013, she embarked on an MSc at UCL Eastman Dental Institute to further enhance her clinical skills. Since then, she has expanded her expertise to include cosmetic tooth straightening, with a special interest in minimally invasive approaches to improve her patients’ smiles.

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In addition to her clinical work, Dr Alba is committed to giving back to the community. In 2015, she volunteered overseas in Cameroon, which deepened her dedication to helping underserved communities. Closer to home, she has been actively involved with the charity Dentaid, providing essential dental care to people experiencing homelessness and others in need.

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Outside of her professional life, Dr Alba is a naturally curious person with a wide range of interests. She enjoys reading about various topics, watching movies and documentaries, and attending live music events, especially festivals. In 2019, she took up embroidery, a hobby she finds both relaxing and challenging. Like many, she has a passion for traveling and exploring new cuisines.

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Dr Alba Torrado-Varela’s combination of clinical expertise, dedication to patient care, and commitment to community service make her a valued member of the dental community in Norwich.

Dr Pilar Cruzado is a highly experienced specialist orthodontist originally from Córdoba, a picturesque city in the south of Spain. Since 2005, she has dedicated her career exclusively to the field of orthodontics, honing her skills and expertise to provide exceptional care to her patients.

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In 2009, Dr Pilar relocated to Norwich, where she has been living and practicing ever since. She finds immense joy and satisfaction in her work, particularly in those moments when a treatment is completed, and she sees the happiness and confidence on her patients’ faces as they realize that their journey to a beautiful smile was truly worthwhile.

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Outside of her professional life, Dr Pilar enjoys a rich and fulfilling personal life. She loves traveling, which allows her to explore new cultures and landscapes. She is also an avid reader, often immersing herself in a good book during her free time. Above all, she cherishes spending quality time with her family, balancing her dedication to her patients with the joy and connection she finds with her loved ones.

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Dr Pilar’s combination of professional expertise and warm, patient-centred care makes her a trusted and respected orthodontist in the Norwich community.

Dr Jorge is a GDC-registered General Dentist with a strong clinical focus on restorative and aesthetic dentistry. He has extensive experience working in private practices across London and the UK, where he provides high-quality cosmetic and general dental care. His clinical interests include Invisalign, composite bonding, veneers, and contemporary restorative treatments, with an emphasis on achieving natural, functional, and long-lasting results.

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Jorge is known for his calm, personable manner and patient-centred approach, taking time to understand each patient’s concerns and expectations in order to deliver tailored treatment plans. He places great importance on communication, trust, and long-term oral health, ensuring patients feel informed and comfortable throughout their dental journey.

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Committed to excellence and continuous professional development, Jorge is currently enrolled on a postgraduate programme in restorative and aesthetic dentistry, alongside regularly attending advanced courses and international training in cosmetic, restorative, and endodontic dentistry. His dedication to ongoing education allows him to remain at the forefront of modern techniques and materials, delivering high standards of care in a safe and ethical manner.

Dr Jaume Monfort is a dedicated and compassionate dentist whose journey in dentistry began in his hometown of Valencia, Spain. He earned his dental degree in 2012 and soon after embarked on a transformative career in private practice in the vibrant city of Barcelona. During his four years in Barcelona, Dr Jaume completed his first degree in implantology in 2016, laying the foundation for his expertise in this specialized field.

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In search of new experiences and opportunities for professional growth, Dr Jaume moved to Norwich, where he was captivated by the verdant landscapes and lush woodlands of Norfolk. Over the next five years, he worked in various dental practices, honing his skills and deepening his commitment to providing high-quality patient care.

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In 2021, Dr Jaume found his professional home at Friends Dental Practice, where he continues to deliver compassionate and expert dental care to his patients. His dedication to expanding his horizons and helping those in need led him on a volunteer mission to Missirah, Senegal, in 2022. Partnering with a Spanish NGO, Dr Jaume offered essential dental and medical assistance to underserved communities, a testament to his commitment to making a positive impact beyond his local practice.

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Continuing his pursuit of excellence, Dr Jaume obtained his second implantology degree from Cambridge in 2023, further enhancing his proficiency and expertise in the field. As a general dentist, Dr Jaume finds fulfilment in a wide range of specialties, including endodontics, implantology, conservative cosmetics, and prosthetic restorations. His broad skill set allows him to address a diverse array of dental needs, providing comprehensive care to his patients.

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Outside of his professional endeavours, Dr Jaume enjoys spending quality time with his family, staying active through sports, and nurturing his love for music by playing several instruments. His well-rounded interests and deep commitment to both his patients and community make Dr Jaume Monfort a highly respected and valued member of the dental profession.

Dr Lucja Zgudka is a highly accomplished Cosmetic Dentist with a special interest in Orthodontics, Facial Aesthetics, Composite Bonding, and Invisalign treatments. A distinguished graduate of the esteemed Pomeranian Medical Academy in Szczecin, Poland, she earned her degree in 2001, embarking on a career that has since been marked by a commitment to excellence and a passion for crafting beautiful smiles.

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With a focus on Orthodontics, Dr Zgudka has been perfecting smiles using the Straight Wire Technique since 2006, and she has gained extensive experience in providing Invisalign treatments for both adults and children. Her professional journey includes serving as an NHS and Private general dentist, where she has demonstrated expertise across a broad spectrum of disciplines, including aesthetic and restorative dentistry, orthodontics, prosthodontics, paediatrics, and endodontics.

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In 2011, Dr Zgudka furthered her orthodontic expertise by completing a rigorous two-year postgraduate course under the guidance of renowned mentors Dr Jonathan Sandler and Alison Murray. This advanced training earned her the title of DWSI in Orthodontics, allowing her to practice orthodontics under both NHS contracts and privately with great success.

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Continuing her dedication to professional growth, Dr Zgudka completed a master’s degree in Invisalign training in 2021, solidifying her position as an expert Invisalign Provider. Her skills extend beyond traditional dentistry; she is proficient in facial aesthetic treatments, including Botox, Dermal Fillers, and cosmetic composite bonding. As a Bioclear composite veneers and injectable moulding technique provider, she offers minimally invasive Emax veneers in APT concepts by Galip Gurel, transforming smiles and enhancing her patients’ confidence.

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Dr Zgudka’s pursuit of excellence also led her to complete the Cambridge Academy of Dental Implantology course from 2016 to 2017, further broadening her expertise. An active member of the British Dental Association and the British Orthodontic Society, she is dedicated to continuous professional development, ensuring her skills and knowledge remain at the cutting edge of her field.

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Her commitment to staying current with the latest advancements in dentistry is evident in her participation in the International Orthodontic Congress held in Dubai in 2023. Additionally, she enhanced her expertise by attending a specialized course in Aesthetic Dentistry in Rome in 2024, further refining her techniques and staying at the forefront of innovative practices.

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Dr Lucja Zgudka is well-regarded for her approachable and thorough approach to patient care. Fluent in English, Polish, and possessing an intermediate proficiency in Portuguese, she connects with a diverse patient base. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys skiing and playing the piano, finding balance and joy in her leisure activities. Dr Zgudka continues to be a leading figure in cosmetic and orthodontic dentistry, dedicated to creating radiant, confident smiles.

Dr Irena is a highly skilled and dedicated dentist with a strong background in General Dentistry, specializing in Restorative and Aesthetic treatments. She earned her dental degree from the prestigious Medical University of Gdansk in Poland. In 2005, she relocated to Norfolk, where she has been providing exceptional dental care to the community ever since.

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Dr Irena holds two advanced degrees: a Specialist degree in General Dentistry from Poland and a Master’s Degree (MSc) in Restorative and Aesthetic Dentistry from The University of Manchester. Her commitment to furthering her expertise led her to complete several renowned one-year courses in restorative dentistry, including an intensive program under the guidance of Professor Paul Tipton, one of the UK’s leading restorative dentists. Her outstanding performance during the course earned her the prestigious “Best Dentist on the Course” award from Professor Tipton.

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While Dr Irena enjoys all aspects of general dentistry, her true passion lies in restorative and aesthetic dentistry. She is particularly skilled in using advanced techniques such as tooth whitening, veneers, crowns, and bridges to create beautiful, natural-looking smiles with minimally invasive procedures. Her expertise in working with composite materials has earned her certification as a Bioclear Practitioner, and she skillfully applies various composite placement techniques in her restorative work to achieve optimal results.

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Outside of her professional life, Dr Irena enjoys staying active with long walks, cycling, and kayaking. She also has a creative side, with a love for baking and painting landscapes and still life. Dr Irena’s diverse interests and dedication to her craft make her a well-rounded and compassionate dentist, committed to providing her patients with the highest standard of care.

Dr Brais Vila is a skilled dentist with a strong background in oral surgery and implantology. He trained at the prestigious University of Santiago de Compostela, located in the charming city of Northern Spain, where he qualified as a dentist in 2009. Driven by a passion for advancing his skills, Dr Brais pursued a Master’s degree in Barcelona before relocating to the UK to further his career.

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Specializing in oral surgery and dental implants, Dr Brais is certified in implantology from Cambridge, bringing a high level of expertise to his practice. His dedication to providing advanced dental care is reflected in his meticulous approach to surgery and his commitment to achieving the best outcomes for his patients.

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Beyond his professional life, Dr Brais enjoys staying active and is an avid football fan. He not only enjoys playing the sport but also supports the local clubs by attending games at Carrow Road. His enthusiasm for both dentistry and football makes him a well-rounded and engaged member of the community.

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Dr Brais Vila’s combination of technical expertise, advanced training, and passion for patient care makes him a valuable asset to the dental community in the UK.

Dr Sai is a dedicated and forward-thinking dentist who recently moved to Norwich in early 2024. A graduate of Queen Mary University of London, where he earned his Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree in 2019, Dr Sai is committed to providing his patients with high-quality, evidence-based dentistry. His approach is centred around minimally invasive techniques, ensuring that his patients receive the best possible care with the least amount of intervention.

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Since graduating, Dr Sai has invested hundreds of hours in further training and professional development. His continuous learning allows him to stay at the forefront of dental advancements, ensuring that his patients benefit from the latest techniques and treatments. While he excels in restoring compromised teeth, Dr Sai also has a particular interest in treating patients who suffer from Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD) and other jaw-related issues. His focus on these specialized areas underscores his commitment to addressing a wide range of dental concerns with precision and care.

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Beyond his professional life, Dr Sai enjoys immersing himself in the local culture of Norwich. He loves exploring the city’s independent shops and cafes, appreciating the unique offerings and vibrant community that Norwich has to offer. Dr Sai’s combination of clinical expertise and personal warmth makes him a valued member of the dental community in Norwich, where he is dedicated to helping his patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health.

Ms Bala Choudhary is a dedicated Dental Hygienist & Therapist who registered with the General Dental Council in 2020. Bala’s approach to dental hygiene and therapy is deeply patient-centric, emphasizing the importance of understanding and aligning with each patient’s expectations. She meticulously tailors care and treatment plans to meet individual needs, ensuring that every patient receives personalized attention and the highest standard of care.

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Bala’s ability to build rapport with her patients is a testament to her compassionate nature and commitment to delivering high-quality dental care. She understands that effective communication and a caring approach are key to fostering trust and ensuring that patients feel comfortable and supported throughout their dental journey.

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Committed to maintaining excellence in her practice, Bala is dedicated to continuous professional development. She regularly participates in training courses and online learning, which enables her to stay at the forefront of dental hygiene practices. Her dedication to lifelong learning ensures that she is well-versed in the latest techniques and innovations, allowing her to offer the most up-to-date and effective care to her patients.

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Outside of her professional life, Bala values quality time with her family and has a passion for cooking and traveling. These personal interests not only enrich her life but also contribute to her well-rounded, empathetic approach to patient care, making her a highly effective and compassionate dental professional.

Ms. Alison Marks is a highly experienced dental professional who qualified from King’s College London Dental School in 1994. Since then, she has dedicated her career to providing exceptional dental care in Norfolk, where she has built a reputation for her expertise and compassionate approach.

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In 2018, Alison joined Friends Dental Practice, where she has continued to offer high-quality dental care to her patients. She has a particular interest in erosion prevention, focusing on helping patients protect their teeth from the effects of wear and maintaining long-term oral health.

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Outside of her professional life, Alison has a passion for travel, enjoying the opportunity to explore new places and cultures. She is also a fan of musical theatre, finding joy in the vibrant performances and creative expressions of the stage.

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Ms. Alison Marks combines her extensive experience with a patient-centred approach, making her a valued member of the Friends Dental Practice team and the Norfolk dental community.

Zoe started at Friends Dental Practice as an apprentice dental nurse in 2019, where she earned her qualification as a dental nurse. She then went on to attend the University of Essex, where she obtained her FdSc in Oral Health Science in 2024. Zoe is a caring and passionate dental professional, who strives for the best for her patients.

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Her goal is to make every appointment as efficient, friendly and comfortable as she can, emphasising individualised treatment. Zoe is committed to provide outstanding dental care that is customised to meet specific needs of her patients, whether you’re looking for non-surgical periodontal treatment or basic maintenance.

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Outside of work, Zoe enjoys travelling, spending time with friends and family, and going to the gym on a regular basis.