Rangitoto Island

Our Team

At our practice, we embrace a truly patient-centred approach to oral health care. We recognise that every individual is unique, and we place great importance on understanding each patient’s values. This perspective guides us in shaping and delivering the level of care that best meets their needs and aspirations.

Our team is led by Dr Sony, Principal Dentist, whose expertise is complemented by a diverse and highly skilled group of professionals. Together, they work in harmony to provide a seamless and holistic experience for every patient who walks through our doors.

We are dedicated to enriching lives through the art of dentistry, creating confidence and wellbeing with every smile we help to shape.

Dr Sony Sudhakaran

Principal Dentist

Dr Sony brings over 15 years of distinguished experience, defined by her commitment to clinical excellence and personalised care.

With a special focus on Cosmetic Dentistry, she offers transformative treatments such as Digital Smile Design, Invisalign, facial injectables, dental implants, laser dentistry, and precision-milled CAD/CAM crowns. By seamlessly blending artistry, advanced technology, and individual attention, Sony ensures every patient receives a truly elevated experience.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sony treasures her role as a devoted mother of two, embodying the same warmth and dedication in family life as she does in her practice.

Professional Memberships

  • New Zealand Dental Association

  • Sedation Society of New Zealand

  • New Zealand Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

  • Institute of Digital Dentistry

Dr Vikram Bhatt

Assosciate Dentist

Dr. Vikram Bhatt graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery from Dr. D.Y. Patil University, Mumbai, in 2009. After running two private clinics in Mumbai for a decade, he moved to New Zealand in 2019, having completed the Australian Dental Council exams in 2018. He has since worked at Lumino Tamatea in Napier and Dental Care West in Auckland.

Dr. Vikram has completed advanced training in Implantology at the ACE Institute and has a special interest in Root canal treatment,  implant and prosthetic dentistry, cosmetic treatment and aligner therapy. He is passionate about delivering personalised, high-quality care that restores function, enhances aesthetics, and boosts patient confidence.

Outside of dentistry, he enjoys spending time with his wife and son, travelling, going to the beach and watching cricket. 

Ashley Lynch

Oral Health Therapist / Hygienist

Ashley Lynch is a passionate oral health therapist with more than 17 years experience in the dental industry in New Zealand & America.

She is a very gentle clinician, ensuring my patients walk away with a positive experience by putting patient’s needs first and making them feel at ease.

Together with her patients, she works to achieve and maintain optimum oral health through in-clinic treatments & education, and customised home care plans unique to their individual needs.

When not looking after your smiles, Ashley is kept busy by her two adorable children.

Beyond her professional duties, she enjoy’s outdoor activities with her family, exercising and traveling to new places.

Maria Zabala

Oral Health Therapist / Hygienist

Maria Zabala has been in the dentistry field for the past ten years. First starting as a dental assistant certified by the New Zealand Dental Association (NZDA), she then completed her Bachelor of Health Science at AUT in 2022, graduating with a dual scope in both Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy. She is originally from Argentina and has lived in New Zealand for almost twelve years. She focuses on providing personalised, gentle, and comprehensive care; while taking pleasure in helping anxious patients feel at ease. Your smile is Maria’s top priority, she is committed to ensuring your dental experience is positive, comfortable, and leaves you beaming with confidence. Beyond her professional duties, she has a passion for travel, shopping and exercising. She also enjoys exploring new culinary experiences with her husband on weekends, trying out different restaurants and eateries.

Emily Tyler-Davies

Practice Manager and Receptionist

Emily Tyler-Davies is our practice manager and receptionist with a strong background in the dental industry. With over four years of experience, she’s known for her warm, approachable nature and her willingness to step in as a dental assistant whenever needed.
Emily holds a Bachelor of Health Science in Oral Health from AUT, which gives her a solid foundation in both clinical care and patient communication. Whether she’s welcoming patients at the front desk or supporting the team behind the scenes, she’s passionate about creating a positive experience for everyone who walks through the door.
Outside of work, Emily enjoys going to the gym, heading out for walks, and spending time with friends. She believes in the power of a good balance—and that a genuine smile can make a real difference.

Yoshimi Sato

Clinical Dental Assistant​

Yoshimi Sato is originally from Japan and recently joined Takapuna Dentist. With experience working in the dental field in both Japan and Australia, she is committed to providing high-quality patient care and support.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time at the beach, hiking, and exploring new places. She loves being outdoors, value a balanced lifestyle, and enjoy connecting with people.

Paul Lai

Clinical Dental Assistant​

Paul Lai is a proud husband to a wonderful wife and father to two teenage sons. Originally from Hong Kong, he immigrated to New Zealand in 2000 and started his family life in Auckland. Since then, he has built a life that blends both his cultural roots and his deep commitment to serving others. He holds a Bachelor of Ministry and has previously served as a volunteer pastor, while also working full-time to support his family.

Paul believes in doing the right thing, doing his best, and helping others whenever he can — because one day, he might need help too. He is not perfect, but he always takes responsibility when he makes mistakes and strives to grow from every experience.

Professionally, Paul has over ten years of experience in the dental industry. He began as a junior dental assistant and eventually became a senior team member at a dental branch. Every step of that journey taught him valuable lessons and shaped who he is today.

Since November 2024, he has been working at Takapuna Dentists, where he continues to learn and use both his experience and new skills to support his team and serve the local community.

LynRapley

Lyn Rapley

Clinical Dental Assistant​

Lyn Rapley, now retired, has previously worked in Dental Reception.
She happily comes in to help us out from time to time.
 
In her spare time Lyn’s interests are walking (always with a coffee reward halfway!), pilates & socialising with her friends

We believe in speciality dental care for all.