Business

Orthodontist acquires Lisburn practice as Zoom drives dental boom

Orthodontist Emma McCrory with Paul Reid from Ulster Bank
Orthodontist Emma McCrory with Paul Reid from Ulster Bank Orthodontist Emma McCrory with Paul Reid from Ulster Bank

AN orthodontist from Lisburn has acquired one of the city’s long-standing practices following a £350,000 investment.

Lisburn Orthodontics, established 30 years ago, offers a range of treatments including removable, fixed and aesthetic appliances and retainers.

With a six-figure funding facility supported by Ulster Bank, orthodontist Emma McCrory has invested in the acquisition of the business and its trading premises.

It comes as social media and Zoom culture drives demand for orthodontic treatments among adults.

Emma said:“We’re seeing a lot more adults seeking these types of treatments, which I believe is driven by the influences of social media and remote working. Video conferencing has become the norm and many of us are now much more conscious of our smile.”

Operating on a referral basis, Lisburn Orthodontics specialises in clinical treatments for children and young adults

In response to more adults seeking easy access to orthodontic treatments, Emma says the practice will soon open up for self-referral.

“The business has operated now for three decades and we want to continue its legacy while building on its reach. As well as opening our books for self-referrals we are also planning to introduce a wider range of clinical treatment options.”

Paul Reid, business development manager at Ulster Bank, says new ownership and future plans to expand its services and patient capacity will ensure Lisburn Orthodontics continues to provide a quality service for new and existing patients.

“Emma brings a wealth of experience from her time working with both NHS and private patients. Her vision for the business is one that continues to deliver for existing patients while implementing a fresh approach to patient care, ensuring a first-class clinical experience that will underpin the future success and growth of the practice.”

In addition to the funding facility, Lisburn Orthodontics is also implementing Tyl, a merchant acquiring and payments solution developed by Ulster Bank to enable customers to take card payments anytime and anywhere.

First introduced in 2020, it helps Northern Ireland-based SMEs move seamlessly to non-cash payments. With Tyl, customers receive a terminal to take payments in-person as well as access to a platform for processing transactions over the phone, through a website, or via a payment link.