Our Story
About Us
Dartmoor Dental, situated in the wonderful town of Tavistock and area of outstanding natural beauty and is owned by Mike and Lara Hesketh, leading business owners in the dental sector who blend clinical expertise and a passion for exceptional patient experiences.
Mike & Lara purchased Lynbridge House back in 2021 and have spent the last few years renovating both the building and business, breathing new life into a shared vision. Over half a million pounds has gone into transforming Dartmoor Dental, which now delivers more than just dentistry – it delivers on ‘Best Practice’, Reassurance, Knowledge, Expertise, Comfort, Leading technology and Trust in every interaction.
Together, the team have transformed this once run down clinic into a thriving multidisciplinary private dental practice in the heart of the community, supported by some of the Southwest Leading dentists and clinicians. Their independent approach has enabled them to go above and beyond, providing care in a way that feels personal, ethical, and deeply community-focused.
Every element – from the welcoming environment to the advanced training and technology – is designed to offer patients the very best in modern digital, compassionate private dental care.
Dartmoor Dental, which delivers more than just dentistry – it delivers on ‘Best Practice’, Reassurance, Knowledge, Expertise, Comfort, Leading technology and Trust.
Meet Mike - CEO
With strong ties to the South West, Mike’s journey began after qualifying from Leeds Dental School. He went on to serve in the Royal Navy, where he worked alongside the Royal Marines in Somerset and abroad, including operational service in Afghanistan. These early years built the foundation of resilience, leadership, and precision that continues to shape his clinical work today.
Mike later undertook maxillofacial training in Portsmouth and added to his skillset with an MBA from Exeter University. His then continued his studies in healthcare coaching at Henley Business School reflect his dedication to both personal development and helping others thrive. Today, he’s widely regarded as a key opinion leader in the dental sector –and is regularly invited to speak at national events and dental conferences.
Mike has a passion for leadership and thrives on looking after his patients and staff really well and has amassed over twenty years industry experience and two award winning practice ownerships.
Mike is a keen family man and has two super children Poppy and Hugo.
Lara - Creative Director
With 13 years of experience in the dental sector and practice ownership, Lara works on the non clinical side of the business, she is our Creative Director working on brand and renovation. She works closely with our practice manager and marketing department to over see our bigger vision to continuously improve the patient experience. Lara’s background as a former West End talent manager brings a creative flair and meticulous attention to detail to every aspect of the practice and her love of calming interiors can be seen throughout the patient lounge.
Lara and Mike have a very clear philosophy, where high standards and the latest technology are paramount to patient care and leading dental treatment.
“We are excited to restore this Grade 2 Listed former manor house and make it a beautiful place for personal modern dentistry in the heart of Tavistock, with leading clinicians in the South West”
— Mike & Lara