Sarika Shah explains why she was captivated by a historic dock in the heart of the city – and how this went on to lay the foundations for her new coaching role.
Women in dentistry often face gender bias, which requires them to work harder to prove their capabilities and overcome stereotypes. Balancing leadership responsibilities with childcare and household commitments can also be challenging for those who run their own business, impacting their work-life balance.
However, despite this, many female dentists find time to advocate for gender equality and help others navigate that same path. As is often said, if you want anything done, ask a busy person.
Sarika Shah is no exception. As the founder and owner of Platinum Dental Care, located in the Port East Building in London’s Canary Wharf, she is ever mindful of the journey she has taken – and the stumbling blocks she encountered along the way. The challenges she faces juggling her clinic and business responsibilities with motherhood have shaped her leadership style and propelled her into a more advisory role. But more on this later.
In 2017, when Sarika and her husband, Rishi, who has a banking background, were considering investing in a dental practice, proximity played a part. They initially focused their search on the capital’s suburbs.
However, with a home in the city and, at the time, making regular visits to London’s Harley Street for IVF treatment, a former dental practice in West India Quay caught their eye – and captured their hearts.
Knowing the demographic
With Rishi well-placed to understand the demographics and needs of a corporate clientele, they seized the opportunity. The convenience of not having to commute also had massive appeal.
‘We were considering practices on the outskirts of London, but Rishi was working in the City, and we lived in Canada Water, just across the river from West India Quay. As a banker, he understood the demographic well – so our market research was relatively straightforward,’ she laughs. ‘Many of our patients are in corporate roles – banking, IT and law – and often work long hours, so they prefer to have essential services and amenities within a short distance from their workplace and homes.’
The clinic is charmingly unique and situated in a converted dock building. On her initial visit, Sarika immediately felt a connection.
The exposed brickwork and wood created a warm, welcoming atmosphere, starkly contrasting the clinical environments often associated with dental practices.
Over the coming years, they undertook two refurbishments, meticulously blending the old with the new to maintain the building’s character while ensuring a premium feel.
Sarika recalls: ‘The building felt very earthed, with a good vibe and energy. In refurbishing it, we had to ensure we kept everything in tune. We redesigned the surgeries and introduced two more surgeries and some office space. Rishi and I were very much involved with that – it was essential to blend seamlessly with the existing architecture, and even the colour of the wood matches.
‘We are detail-oriented, and minor observations can impact the most. Our patients are professionals, and I believe they appreciate that.
‘Walking into our front-of-house space, everything looks premium. We wanted to create a clinic with a hint of a boutique hotel, and our practice branding reflects this.
‘Ours is a dental practice focusing on patient care that embraces elements of the corporate world.’
Prioritising quality
Sarika prioritised quality in every aspect of developing her practice – from materials and equipment to furnishing and the overall patient journey.
‘We chose high-quality equipment, materials and tools to enhance the clinical experience,’ says Sarika. ‘As an associate, I worked with Belmont’s folding leg-rest chairs because communication has always been important. Sitting the patient up to have a conversation at eye level is key to delivering the service I want to provide. I didn’t wish to sit side by side, so we purchased three chairs in the luxury leather upholstery, allowing for better patient interaction and blending perfectly with the high-end appeal to our patient base.’
Offering a multidisciplinary approach, Platinum Dental Care continues to expand its cosmetic dentistry services.
‘Dentistry is a delicate combination of art, science and communication,’ says Sarika. ‘I believe in developing partnerships with my patients by breaking down their anxieties, making bonds and building trust to create the perfect result.
‘My biggest achievement is when this result becomes life-changing for patients by making them more confident about their smiles and themselves.’
Flourish as a female
This desire to change lives is reflected in her latest venture, too – but this time with her professional colleagues. Flourish as a Female is a two-day in-person course on self-leadership for all women across the industry. Participants can also have one-to-one mentoring or coaching with her. The initiative was borne out of her own experiences.
‘Empowering women to find their voice is vital,’ she says.
‘Supporting other women on their journey is essential if you’ve found success in a particular area. Although success can be challenging, especially for women, shifting our mindset towards helping others succeed is crucial.
‘At 42, my experiences and observations have driven me to find my purpose. I am passionate about giving back, whether as a certified performance and mindset coach or in personal, clinical and business contexts. I see numerous ways to assist other women.’
Although the industry is rapidly evolving, traditional norms often burden women with household duties and childcare responsibilities, but Sarika maintains that open conversations are critical. She suggests we all need to find alternative solutions rather than close doors.
‘When I was pregnant, I experienced a significant identity shift internally, mentally and hormonally,’ she says. ‘Self- leadership became a challenge, especially with a three-year-old son. It’s a topic not often discussed. It’s about changing mindsets and discussing things with partners. Rishi and I have had to do this. It’s not an easy conversation because not everyone is open to it, but it can make a difference.
And this applies to the workplace, too.
‘At our practice, open communication is crucial. Regarding maternity leave, I ensure that associates feel supported and their roles are covered during their absence. This benefits everyone – from a business and personal perspective.
‘We plan for CPD, so they stay updated, which helps them avoid feeling deskilled or undervalued upon returning to work.
‘Maintaining an open space for discussion and being flexible ensures good staff retention. As practice owners, we must respect and value each team member’s contributions, provide autonomy, encourage growth and foster a collaborative environment.
‘Building a human connection and breaking down hierarchical barriers contribute to a motivated and balanced work environment. And yes, while money is important, creating a supportive, inclusive and balanced workplace is crucial for a happy team, overall efficiency and everyone’s long-term success.’
This article first appeared in Private Dentistry magazine. To receive a copy, sign up to Dentistry Club.
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