Kirsty Gilhooly – *Pain Free Dental Therapist

Kirsty Gilhooly

Awards & Associations

Highly Commended – Best Dental Therapist North – Oral Health Awards 2021

Certified – *Pain Free Dental Therapist

Member – British Society of Dental Hygiene Therapists

Professional information

Kirsty graduated as a Dental Therapist in 2014 from the University of Highlands and Islands, winning Student of the Year.

Kirsty has worked in both the private and community dental sectors. Since 2020 she divides her time between two of the Pain Free Dentals Group’s practices Cherrybank Dental Spa – Edinburgh and Dentistry @No3 – Dunfermline.

Under the remit of a Dental Therapist Kirsty carries out a varied number of treatments. With a special interest in providing high quality cosmetic dentistry and treatment for periodontal disease.

Keen to be at the forefront of the latest techniques and research, she regularly undertakes courses, including dental implant periodontal management, to keep up to date with her CPD allowing her to pass this knowledge on to her patients.

Kirsty enjoys building trusting relationships with her patients and believes a kind and listening environment is key to achieving successful results and maintaining dental health.

In 2021 Kirsty won ‘Highly Commended’ Best Therapist – North at the Oral Health Awards.

“Visited today for hygienist appointment. Friendly welcome as soon as you open the door by Barbara. Kirsty and Irene put me at ease and were very helpful.
Great place”

5 Star Review – Alayne H

Personal information

Out of the working week Kirsty is a keen hill walker, reader and enjoys running. She spends her down time walking with her husband and Bernese Mountain Dog, Monty. She has a cat, Binka, who enjoys it when Kirsty cuddles up on the sofa to read.

Another of Kirsty’s hobbies is baking. Please do not be fooled by the career in dentistry, she loves sweet treats. Combined with a love of travelling and exploring, she also enjoys experiencing different cultures and foods.

Kirsty has recently signed up to Pilates classes which helps with her posture for carrying out her job as a dental therapist.

“Wow! I had my first appointment yesterday with Kirsty and Irene, for a scale and polish.
This procedure in the past has been an absolute nightmare for me, I always needed to be numbed for this and still it would be agony because of severe sensitivity all over.
I’m totally shocked that they got round my whole mouth without me jumping out their seat at any point! Not one injection NEEDED for this and NO pain at all!

Thank you Kirsty & Irene, brilliant job”

5 Star Review – Louise F

At the Practice…

Kirsty at the practice

Away from the Practice…

Kirsty outside the practice

Kirsty’s patient photos…

Before & after treatment with Kirsty

Meet Your Dental Therapist, Kirsty

If you’d like to know more about our dental treatments, we’d like to invite you for a Complimentary Consultation with our Smile Advisor. You can relax with a hot drink while you chat about how, and in what ways we could help improve your dental health.

Book Now

Check Out Our Latest Patient Reviews

Dentistry @ No 3

4.9

Based on 441 reviews

Alister the dentist and his staff took good care of meHe explained everything he was going to doVery efficient in his workOutcome very pleased with the end results

James O.

Another quick but very efficient and comfortable dental appointment. Alastair makes the process very easy and I always leave with any issues resolved and minimal fuss.

heather W.

So, my whole experience was magnificent. Why, the two young ladies listened to my concerns, what I'm looking for, answered all my questions clearly and explained everything that's involved from start to finish.I never once felt there was a time rush, they just made me feel very relaxed and comfortable.So, while talking the whole process through one lady took note of all the important things I mentioned for future reference which I thought was a brilliant way of not having to go through it time and time again 😀.They also printed off two different type of procedures based on my preferences showing the costs. Of course these cost sheets will be different for everyone.All in all the whole experience was worth it. Because of this I will be going ahead with my treatment.I can only recommend Dentistry @ No 3 on this experience but I am convinced my future visits will be just as good.

Sylvia D.

My adventure with Ali and the team is ongoing. Appointment today for extraction EFFORTLESS realy at ease. working to my implants being fitted. Really pleased that I decided to get all my dental work done with Dentistry@No3 FANTASTIC.As I said up above. the service is second to none, I have been getting for implants and the care and attention is second to none. Nothing is too much trouble for Ali and the team. As i go on my journey for implantsi feel totally at ease, Dentistry@No3 FANTASTIC.

stanley mckellican (.

Another excellent appointment carried out by Ali and his team, friendly and professional service as soon as you arrive,Appointment carried out in relaxed friendly professional mannerEverything explained clearly and you’re kept fully informed about how your treatment is going and how the next phases are planned out too

sean R.

Cant explain the ease of my treatment over a year so happy with the results broke a front tooth and had implant. Have to say no pain just a little discomfort so thank you so pleased.

Elaine F.

I’ve just finished my dental treatment using invisilign and having my teeth straightened and I am so happy with the transformation. I would highly recommend dentistry no 3 .

Seonaid W.

So it was my first visit to see Ali and his staff. On entering the setting was fresh, clean and modern looking. Stark contrast to my normal dentist in an NHS setting. I arrived and was greeted at the reception, name checked and ask to take a seat in the room across the hall. Comfortable seating, not that I had a lot of time to enjoy it. No sooner was I seated and Ali was in the room and showing me the way to the consulting room. Here I met 2 more members of staff and sat down.Ali started the consultation and it was very in depth. From a technical, explanation of actions and procedures view point. I had X-rays, CT scan, full mouth photographing done. All was explained in easy to follow way, without using a lot of technical words.I will receive a review of my visit to see which way my treatment will go. But from this first visit, I think I will be in good hands.There is steps outside to navigate and a threshold to get over. If you have a disability which could hinder movement, you can gain access to the dentist, but you may need assistance. I didn’t see a ramp, so you may have to ask

Chris H.

My experience at no 3 dentistry was faultless from start to finish.Rebecca made me feel at complete ease with her friendly manner, was always able to answer any questions/queries I had and spoke me through my whole experience both before and during my appointments.I would recommend them to anyone.

Toni B.

Friendly and caring atmosphere. Great dental skills resulting in me having an almost full set of functioning teeth for the first time in a long time with no pain involved.

Rose H.

Fantastic service from both Kirsty and Irene who were very attentive, listened to my concerns and explained everything I needed to know and how to improve even further in my dental hygiene.

Catherine T.

Always feel relaxed when I visit Dentistry @ No3 the amazing staff are all so friendly & welcoming & make you feel at ease from the moment you step in the front door.

Maureen M.

Outstanding, everything explained in detail and made to feel relaxed and part of the process. Highly recommend No3. Pain free experience despite a slightly tricky extraction prior to implant.

Andrew T.

Next step in a long, but worthwhile process, to replace some of my teeth with implants. Installation of two implants today. Well planned, well prepared and a successful process. Excellent results.

Ian O.

I have just finished dental treatment with Rebecca at dentistry @ no3 and could not recommend enough. I first saw treatment coordinator Leigh to discus what was available in terms of straightening my teeth, this was a great sit down chat where she gave me all the information, rough prices and time scales.I then saw Rebecca for a clinical assessment where we decided on Invisalign, some whitening and composite bonding. It is definitely a ‘trust the process’ but I fully put my trust in Rebecca and it paid off massively. She is a true professional, as is everyone I encountered in the surgery. She listened to all of my concerns and laid out the best path to get my smile exactly how I wanted; I can now smile with confidence and have never felt happier with my smile. I would fully recommend Rebecca and dentistry @ no3 to anyone looking to get dental treatment.

Ruth D.

First initial appointment and I was really impressed at how friendly and informative Leigh was. No hard sell, I feel I'll be in control of the process and so far really happy.

Sally C.

I have been a nervous patient for many years following a bad experience with a hygienist previously. I cannot recommend Dentistry@no3 highly enough! I no longer dread my quarterly appointments and no more death gripping of the arms of the chair! Laura is an absolute star. *Laura unfortunately was off sick today and my stand in was outstanding! There was a time when I would have turned on my heel and fled at the suggestion of another hygienist.. not now! Still scared, but well done, Dentistry at No 3 for finding such a good fit!

Marjorie T.

My consultation was thorough and detailed, highlighting current and potential future dental issues. My Dentist made me comfortable and explained any dental procedures in depth leaving no grey areas.

Kevin C.

From my first consultation, until my treatment was complete, I have not one negative comment to say about my dentist Lee, the hygienist and all staff involved in my care. I felt listened to and at ease at all times. The treatment was as described - pain free. I am glad I have finally found a practice and dentist with caring staff who take the time to give full examinations, explanations and treatment. 10/10!!

Joni S.

Very friendly, professional and informative visit. While my appointment was cancelled first thing in the morning, No.3 quickly made arrangements with their partner surgery so it could be done that day. Very good service and thoroughly recommend.

Fraser H.

Amazing!! Rebecca did a wonderful job on my crooked front teeth. The whole experience was totally painful free and I now have beautiful straight white teeth which has boosted my confidence 100%. I couldn't be happier. 🧡🧡🧡

Linda C.

The dental appointment was for some help regarding two chipped teeth. I contacted the surgery, and received an appointment for the next day. The work was done, carefully and quickly, the outcome being really good.A thank you to Rebecca and her assistant, for their quiet careful work.

Stephen W.

I have been terrified of going to the dentist my whole life. These guys are amazing ! I don't have a single bit of anxiety going to the dentist now.

Gillian B.

I have just had veneers and a new implant crown fitted with Rebecca and I am over the moon with the result. It's more than I ever could have hoped for. I explained to Rebecca that it was important to me that the final result would look natural, that I still wanted to look like myself and not look like I had my "teeth done".I need not have worried, Rebecca took the time at our initial consultation to listen and understand the look I hoped to achieve and outlined the best way forward.I was impressed by the professional manner of all staff at the surgery, and felt confident that I was in safe hands.Rebecca provided a detailed treatment plan outlining each step of my treatment so I understood what was involved, timewise and cost.I now smile with a renewed confidence and would not hesitate to recommend Dentistry at No3 for anyone who is thinking about having any cosmetic work done.

Mary M.

Pain free treatment by Ali who strives to get the best end results for all of his patients. Each step was mapped out and expectations set from the very first appointment. For anyone thinking of implants my advise is go and see Ali he is an expert in his field and gets life changing results. Thank you for helping me achieve more than I wished for when I first walked into the practice, for having an eye for detail and for putting me at ease from the first appointment.

D M.

Always such an amazing service I get at Dentisty @No3. Ali is so attentive and accommodating. Thank you so much for seeing me so quicky and as always a lovely, painless procedure. Cannot recommend enough!!

Melissa P.

The treatment, care and kindness I received at Dentistry at No3 was exceptional. Lee understood my fears and worries and did everything he could to support me. I would highly recommend this practice.

Sue C.

Rebecca and the team completely transformed my smile and I’ve never felt more confident. I was always scared of the dentist but all the procedures were completely pain free and I was always made to feel comfortable. The health of my teeth was prioritised and I really feel the difference because of it. I now have healthy teeth and a great smile that still looks like me!Couldn’t recommend them enough. I also need to mention the reception team - all the ladies are lovely to deal with. So polite and helpful.Huge thank you to everyone!

Lauren L.

Everthing went so smoothly from speaking to leigh to ali who is excellent in his treatment really is pain free and always puts you first wouldnt go anywhere else for implants

Joe H.

I chose Dentistry @ No 3 based on the many positive reviews I read online. And I’m so glad I did!I met with Rebecca a year ago, who put together a comprehensive plan/timeline for my smile makeover. She explained everything thoroughly and put me at ease throughout.All the staff are incredibly friendly and go above and beyond to make sure you have the best experience possible.I’d highly recommend Rebecca and Dentistry @ No 3 to anyone who has been putting this off like I have! I can now smile confidently for the 1st time in my life. Thank you! :)

David H.

I have been absolutely delighted with the incredible experience at dentistry @ No3 from beginning to end.I started with an initial consultation with Leigh who was able to give me a plethora of information from potential dental options all the way to payment plans and managing initial appointments with the dentist.The facilities are next level with the best technology at hand and modern techniques used without the typical clinical feel of dentists - from the moment you step in the door you feel so welcomed and part of a family; the reception area is like sitting in a living room with a relaxing atmosphere which really does help to settle any nerves about visiting the dentist. In addition to helpful, kind and supportive reception staff Barbara and Charlotte who will always be so accommodating around any schedules to meet appointment requirements with a smile on their face at all times - even able to offer cancellation appointments to expedite treatment where possible. Everyone leaves you feeling so relaxed about your treatment and I couldn’t be more thankful for everyone during every step to creating my smile transformation.To top it all off would be the professional, kind, caring and talented all round smile queen dentist, Rebecca! Not only was Rebecca able to break down all treatment options and give the best advice and guidance from her experience but was also able to make it simple to understand and what steps had to be taken alongside an accurate timeline with a treatment plan that worked to achieve the best results possible. She always makes you feel at ease and lets you raise any potential concerns you may have about any of the treatments. Rebecca is thorough, meticulous and has an outstanding ability to make you feel comfortable and like no question is ever silly.I can’t stop smiling and that’s thanks to you and your amazing team; you have made a real lasting impact on my confidence.You really do have the patience of a saint - everyone needs a dentist like Rebecca a true one of a kind. I don’t think I’ve ever said this but I’m going to miss my appointments with my dentist!

Dylan H.

Highly recommend Dentistry@No3. Have always received the best pain free treatment. All the staff are very helpful and friendly and my Dentist Rebecca always provides the very best high quality dental treatment.

Alan B.

Another pain free check-up. Ali always makes me feel at ease when getting a check up and gives a thorough explanation of what's happening. Super friendly professional staff.

Bernie B.

As always an excellent service, thank you Kirsty for painless, professional and friendly service. I would highly recommend dentistry@No 3 one very happy customer.

Roberta B.

Many thanks Ali for your expert help in keeping my old teeth going - painless as always! Also there is always such a friendly welcome from both you and your great staff.

Alan C.

A wonderful dental surgery. Had 4 implants done there and Ali was an absolute gem and did a great job. Lot less pain after treatments than I expected considering what had to be done.Can’t recommend this surgery enough. Very pleased. Now I only have to learn to talk again. Try say Mitsubishi with the mouth full of new teeth, lol.

Kjell Henning H.

My journey with pain free dentistry@no 3 has been an amazing one from start to finish . The staff are great and my dentist was excellent at what he does . Would recommend this practice highly.

Agnes N.

Events brought me to Dentistry n.3 and I have to say couldn’t be happier about it. I started with Leigh that she chose the best plan for me and she put me in the hand of Ali. This was a journey, a no pain journey with a dreamfull end. Is like back to life again.Ali is highly professional with an amazing care for details, skills and patient care. A great thanks also to his amazing team.Can’t recommend anything else but Dentistry n. 3 to anyone.

Lurens M.

I made the right decision in choosing Dentistry at No3. I have had a lot of work (crowns) carried out on my top teeth and the transformation is amazing. Alisdair was brilliant, friendly and explained every thing that would be happening and it was totally pain-free!!! He deserves every award he has been given.All the staff are lovely. If you're thinking about it ..... do it!!!

DEBORAH F.

Rebecca is the smile fairy 🧚‍♀️at Dentistry at No.3, after 2years of Invisalgn treatment Rebecca completed the process with Composite Bonding, top and bottom. I can't thank Rebecca and the team enough for the treatment but the support and guidance that is given throughout my, smile makeover 😁

Victoria M.

Chose Dentistry No3 following recommendations. Whilst only having had my initial appointment I was not disappointed. I have a major fear of the dentist and suffer from severe anxiety at the thought of attending any dentist. I need not have worried, the staff were friendly and the practice yet professional had a relaxed atmosphere. Staff were informative and knowledgeable and treatments explained without any obligation. Good payment options available.

Elizabeth D.

Visited today for hygienist appointment. Kirsty went above and beyond to help my pain but still carried out what she had to do.Helped the pain .Lee & Rebecca have been great at my last 2 appointments.Would highly recommend this practice if you have a fear or hate pain 😁

Alayne H.

Rebecca was fab with the information she gave me i think I could save my teeth and get a positive result I will be able to smile with confidence again it's early days still at least I have some hope now x

Ruth M.

Everyone I met in the practice has been so friendly. Rebecca is a marvellous dentist. I have found her to be so diligent and meticulous. I had an issue which was not Rebecca’s fault and she worked so hard and patiently with me to get the issue resolved and to make sure I had the best outcome with my treatment. There’s not many ‘Rebeccas’ going around. Well done and thank you! '

Carolyn R.

Staff are fantastic. Pain free dentistry 100%. Currently undergoing a full smile makeover and I could not be happier with the results so far. Dr Ally is definitely at the top of his profession.

Owen M.

Staff here are all very friendly and helpful. Ali always made me feel at ease during my procedures. He has changed my life, I can smile again! I would absolutely 110% recommend Dentistry @ no3

Sharon T.

The team @No 3 are so supportive and friendly. They are very good at communicating and really listen to you. I feel very safe in their hands. I highly recommend this practice.

Liz C.

Would thoroughly recommend Dentistry @No3! All the staff are so very helpful and Rebecca, who carried out my dental treatment, was brilliant from start to finish - she was meticulous in making sure my results were as I had hoped and was always on hand to answer any queries/make sure I was happy with how everything was going. A great experience all round!

Lena M.

Everyone at dentistry @ no 3 are so friendly and professional. Like many, I had a fear of the dentist. I've just had a 2 hour appointment today with rebecca. She made me feel so relaxed and at ease and always asking if I was ok. Everything was as they say "pain free". Didnt even know she had given me an injection. Gone are the sleepless nights before dental visits. I would highly recommend rebecca at dentistry @ no3

Wendy P.

I have had treatment with both Kirsty and Alistair this week and I can’t thank them enough. I was put at ease straight away. They explained every step of my treatment, what it would feel like and sound like. They checked I was ok throughout my appointments. I can honestly say I have never been so relaxed in a dentist chair. If, like me you are anxious of the dentist, I would highly recommend Dentistry no3

Leigh-Anne P.

Highly recommend Dentistry @ No3.I had extractions, implants, bridge and crowns all done by Ali.Totally pain free. Ali explained everything he was doing at each appointment, cannot thank Ali enough for his care and attention to detail. He made sure I was ok and knew what was happening all the way through the treatment plan. From Leigh for my consultation, the receptionists, Kirsty the hygienist to Ali and the dental nurses everyone was lovely and welcoming. Thank you all.

Fiona M.

Every single appointment has put my mind at ease and I’ve known exactly what to expect each step of the way. When they claim pain free dentistry this is absolutely what they deliver. I couldn’t recommend them more highly. Outstanding” .

Tracey G.

Wow ......... 😳Had my first appointment yesterday with kirsty and Irene , for a scale and polish .This procedure in the past has been an absolute nightmare for me , always needed to be numbed for this an still it would be agony !! 😢 because of severe sensitivity all over ......I'am total shocked that they got round my whole mouth without me jumping out there seat at any point ! Not 1 injection NEEDED for this , an completely NO pain at all !!!!! AmazingCan not thank these two ladies enough for what they done for me yesterday , put me right at ease with no pain at all 🫶 totally made my day , and I'm looking forward to going back for the rest of my treatment (which is a first for me for many many years)I skipped out the door buzzing yesterday an that's never happened at any dentist beforeThank you Kirsty & IreneBrilliant jobX

Louise F.

Absolutely excellent.I have avoided the dentist for over 15 years as I was terrified after a horrible experience when I was younger. Eventually after having some pain that I couldn’t ignore any longer I made an appointment with Dentistry No3.Can genuinely say these guys have absolutely changed my outlook. Niall (dentist) and Laura hygienist) have both gone above and beyond to help me. They’re been so reassuring and let me take things at my own pace. Even during my panicking, both of them and their dental nurses made me feel safe and in control of what was happening.I LOVE how my teeth feel and look now, and feel so much more confident in attending appointments. Every member of the team from Leigh the smile advisor to reception have been brilliant.Thank you all so much!(P.S my appointment with Laura this week was the first time I’ve not cried before/during a dentist appointment for about 30 years!!!!)

Laura J.

Was always self conscious about my smile and now I can’t stop smiling, I’m even talking clearer thanks to Ali for giving me the confidence to show my teeth

Jessica H.

I really took the time to investigate who I wanted to get my smile wedding ready for my big day. Dentistry @ no 3 really took the time to listen and get my appointments lined up so my smile was ready for my wedding. Dr Ali is definitely the best in the business! If you are looking for that extra boost of confidence - I would highly recommend Dentistry @ no.3.

julie S.

Have had a great experience at this practice. I had a broken tooth that I thought couldn’t be salvaged. Ali saved the tooth and replaced an old, ill fitting crown next to it. It looks fantastic. Am really pleased. Care has been first rate.The team have been really flexible when booking me in too, to accommodate my difficult working hours. Can’t thank them enough.

Sally B.

Incredible! I cannot thank Rebecca and the team at Dentistry @ no3 enough! I’ve just completed my Invisalign with whitening and composite bonding and the results are better than I ever could have imagined. I highly recommend if you are thinking of getting dental treatment. They could not do enough to make the process as easy as possible and made sure I was 100% happy. I’m so delighted and cant stop smiling!

Stephanie R.

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Kirsty Gilhooly