Lifelong dental wellbeing in Staines
Our goal is for every one of our patients to achieve lifelong dental wellbeing. Our caring team will listen to your needs without judgement and recommend treatment that's right for you.
- Since 1998Led by Dr Colin Houston
- Every examIncludes mouth cancer screening
- Pay as you goOr plans from £10/month
- Fridays from 7amEarly bird appointments with Dr Houston
In brief
Thorpe Lea Dental is a preventative, family-oriented private practice on Thorpe Road, Staines-upon-Thames, named Practice of the Year, South East, at the Dentistry Awards 2023. Your journey starts with a new patient exam (£70 with Dr James Gartshore), then a clear written plan, gentle minimally invasive treatment and regular care for life.
Your journey with us
Thorough, unhurried, gentle dental care, from your first call to keeping your smile healthy for life.
- 1
Book online or call
Choose a time that suits you. We will send your welcome pack and forms before your visit.
- 2
Meet and greet
A warm welcome from our team. We talk through your medical history, habits and any worries.
- 3
Thorough examination
A full check of teeth and gums with a digital scan and intra-oral photos.
- 4
Your personal plan
Clear options, honest advice and a written plan, with no pressure to decide on the day.
- 5
Gentle, minimally invasive treatment
We believe in minimally invasive dentistry, so we gently restore your teeth, involving you at every stage.
- 6
Lifelong dental wellbeing
Regular check-ups and hygiene visits keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong, for life.

Led by Dr Colin Houston
Our principal dentist combines meticulous attention to detail with continuous training, so every patient receives careful, considered treatment. His approachable manner is reflected in the positive atmosphere and the skilled team he leads.
- Over 25 years in dentistry
- Continuous professional development
- Skilled in easing dental anxieties
Dr Colin Houston, Principal Dentist · BDentSc (Dublin 1992) · GDC No. 68287
Modern technology, gentle care
We use modern dental technology so treatment is precise, minimally invasive and comfortable.
iTero 3D scanning
Detailed 3D dental imaging, with no messy impressions.
Straumann implants
One of the world's most tried and tested implant systems.
Invisalign
Virtually invisible aligners to straighten teeth.
Digital X-rays
Clear images for a precise diagnosis.
Glasses for films and TV
Watch something you enjoy during treatment to help you relax.
Pay as you go, or join a plan
Sensibly priced treatment when you need it, or a monthly plan to spread the cost of routine care.
Dental Health Plan
£27.50 /month
- Two examinations and two hygiene treatments a year, or one exam and three hygiene
- All necessary X-rays and digital photos
- Free exams for your child up to and including age 11
- Up to 10% off additional routine treatment
- Worldwide accident and emergency cover
- For gum health
Perio Plan
£39.50 /month
- Up to two examinations a year
- Four hygiene therapy treatments a year
- All necessary X-rays and digital photos
- Free exams for your child up to and including age 11
- 20% off periodontal treatment, up to 10% off other treatment
- Worldwide accident and emergency cover
Kids Plan
£10 /month
- One examination and one hygiene treatment a year
- Orthodontic assessment and referral if required
- Oral hygiene instruction and disclosing tablets
- Topical fluoride as required
- Up to 10% off routine treatment
- Worldwide accident and emergency cover
Before your first visit
Anything else? Call 01784 454 899.
What happens at my first visit?
A warm welcome, a talk about your medical history and any worries, and a thorough examination of your teeth and gums with a digital scan and photos. You leave with a clear, written plan and no pressure to decide on the day. See New Patients for prices and what's included.
Do you screen for mouth cancer?
Yes. For added reassurance, we carry out a mouth cancer screening at every examination.
Can I pay as I go?
Yes. We offer sensibly priced 'pay as you go' treatments for patients who would like to pay for their dental care as and when they need it, or you can spread the cost with a membership plan.
I am nervous about the dentist. Can you help?
Yes. Our caring team will listen to your needs without judgement, and everything in the practice is designed with your comfort and relaxation in mind. More about care for nervous patients.
Ready when you are
Send a request and our team will be in touch to find a time that works. New patient exams with Dr James Gartshore are £70 for 45 minutes. Prefer to talk now? Call 01784 454 899.
