The Tracey Bell Castletown Dental Practice is marking its second anniversary by expanding its clinical services.

Two years ago, Castletown Dental Practice opened its doors with Giovanni Marras and locals Wendy Mahon and Jasmin Skillicorn as the employees.

The business has grown to a three-surgery practice, employing five staff with Phillipa Sutterby and Sophie Wood joining the team and Giovanni Marras overseeing the latest techniques in routine dental services.

Giovanni said: ’The success of the practice has been phenomenal. The patients are fantastic and the registration numbers at the practice are a testimony to the team itself, including Linda Dobinson, who retired a few months ago and had made a wonderful contribution.

’When I came to the Isle of Man, I knew very little about dental services and oral health on the island.

’I quickly realised that there was a huge problem with dental decay and periodontal gum disease on the island. I believe people were unaware of the extent of the problems.

’In any disease, education is the key to change. Hence our strategy in Castletown is based on monitoring the condition, educating the patient and then providing comprehensive treatments that work.

’I have embarked upon my masters in periodontology in Rome and my nurse Jasmin Skillicorn is completing her dental nurse qualification - amazing achievements in just two years. We offer all types of dentistry, with a special interest in periodontics.’

Earlier this month the Manx Independent reported that Radcliffe’s the butcher’s shop was planning to leave Castletown and some retailers believe that the ancient capital was becoming a ghost town.

But dentist chain boss Tracey Bell appears to disagee.

She said: ’Castletown is a fantastic place to launch and grow a business which is firmly rooted in the local community.

’It’s an exciting place to be based and we couldn’t possibly have asked for more support from Castletown residents. We’re already looking forward to seeing what the next two years will bring for this fast-growing practice.’