We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Henrik Overgaard-Nielsen, a prominent figure in both the dental and political realms, has joined the Board of Trustees.
If you’re a dentist active in the Local Dental Committee (LDC) scene, you likely already know Henrik and his impressive contributions.
Henrik’s extensive experience in dentistry—as a general dental practitioner, practice owner, campaigner and advocate—brings invaluable expertise to the Board.
His career began in Denmark, where he trained and participated in young dentist committees, influenced by his father, a well-known journalist and MP. Moving to London in 1996, Henrik worked in Camden before founding one of England’s largest NHS practices in Fulham in 1999.
Passionate about uniting the dental community, Henrik served as Chair of the London Federation of Local Dental Committees, championing the collective voice of NHS primary care dentists. He also led the BDA General Dental Practice Committee, for a number of years, negotiating on behalf of UK dentists.
Henrik’s dedication extends beyond dentistry. He has served on the board of a mental health charity and founded Burmadent, a charity providing dental care to orphans in Burma.
Embracing a new role
Henrik has long been familiar with the BDA Benevolent Fund, thanks to his active roles in Local Dental Committees and the BDA. Recognizing the crucial financial support from LDCs, Henrik is committed to increasing awareness and engagement across the network.
“Every year at the Local Dental Committee Conference, the BDA Benevolent Fund highlights its vital support for dentists. It’s surprising that not all LDCs contribute. There’s a significant opportunity to understand this and enhance awareness throughout the network,” Henrik states.
He acknowledges the current challenges LDCs face, such as decreased face-to-face interactions post-Covid, which can lead to isolation and poor wellbeing for younger dentists. Henrik emphasises the importance of financial and wellbeing support in these times.
Giving Back to the Profession
With a wealth of experience in representation, negotiation, financial management, and strategy, Henrik aims to support vulnerable dentists.
“I want to give back to the profession and am dedicated to the Charity’s goals particularly bolstering the Charity’s awareness raising and fundraising efforts,” Henrik shares.
It’s not all about work
Despite his busy schedule, Henrik finds time to enjoy personal passions. He’s honing his tennis backhand and regularly meets with his rock and roll bandmates to sing and play guitar.
During the quieter days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Henrik pursued a wine degree with the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, and now teaches in the evenings. So, don’t be surprised if you catch Henrik enjoying a crisp Sauvignon Blanc on a summer day.
Henrik is excited to tackle the challenges facing the Charity and firmly believes in empowering people to thrive independently. We are eager to work with Henrik and warmly welcome him to the Board.
Find out more about the Board of Trustees and the Governance of the Charity.
