A rising star at a Renfrewshire dental clinic has been recognised among the best new dentists across the UK and Ireland, and is one of only two based in Scotland.

Cara Marcuccilli, a Vocational Dental Practitioner (VDP) at Scottish Dental Care’s Bishopton Dental Clinic, was named as one of the 18 winners of the highly regarded College of General Dentistry in its CGDent and GC Award for Foundation Trainees. 

The Award saw her jet off with fellow winners to take a funded place, worth around £1,400, at a sought-after two-day course on advanced composite bonding techniques at the College of General Dentistry European Education Campus in Leuven, Belgium.

Cara, who is currently completing her vocational training at Bishopton Dental Clinic under the mentorship of experienced dentist Craig MacDougall, impressed judges with a detailed restorative case that demonstrated both technical ability and patient-centred care.

She said: “I feel incredibly grateful to be selected as one of the award winners. The opportunity to take part in advanced training with peers from across Europe is a huge privilege. I’m thankful to my patients, colleagues and mentors who supported me throughout the casework process.”

The assessment panel scored each case based on the overall improvement in the patient’s oral health, the standard of aesthetic treatment, the complexity of the case, and the quality of the entrant’s reflection.

Her vocational trainer, Craig MacDougall, said: “Cara has shown real dedication to both her patients and her development as a clinician. This recognition is thoroughly deserved and reflects the high standards she set herself from day one. It has been a pleasure to support her through her training year.”

Bishopton Dental Clinic is part of Scottish Dental Care, one of the fastest-growing dental groups in the country. The family-founded organisation has developed a reputation for supporting young dentists and championing clinical development.

Co-founder and Director of Dentistry, Philip Friel, said: “It is hugely encouraging to see one of our early-career clinicians receive such a significant accolade.

Cara’s success reinforces the value of a supportive environment and high-quality mentoring, and highlights how the next generation of dentists can thrive when given the tools to do so.”

The CGDent-GC Award, which recognises clinical skills and patient care, aims to inspire excellence and promote enhanced education and clinical standards across the profession. It is among the most competitive honours for foundation dentists in the UK.

Scottish Dental Care operates 22 clinics from Inverness to Dumfries, providing NHS and private care to more than 250,000 patients. Its Advanced Dentistry clinics in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Inverness offer a wide range of cosmetic and restorative treatments.

Along with investing in innovative technology state-of-the-art facilities, the group provides a sector-leading offering to dentists and practice teams, with best-in-class remuneration packages, mentoring, and professional development.