At Brentwood Orthodontic and Implant Centre the team are used to creating smiles that reach new heights – but at the end of March, Practice Principal, Nikihil, is taking that quite literally!
Nikhil is preparing to trek to Everest Base Camp in the Himalayas, swapping Brentwood for snow-capped peaks and high-altitude horizons. And while he’s known for straightening teeth, this time he’s focused on conquering something a little more vertical.
You could say he’s taking Orthodontics to new heights… and we couldn’t be prouder.
Taking his passion for precision to new peaks
Nikhil has 25 years of dedicated Orthodontic experience and has helped thousands of patients achieve confident, balanced smiles. He and his wife, Preeti, founded their practice in 2004 and since then it has become a trusted part of the local community.
Known locally as a perfectionist, he is often the Orthodontist that other dentists and healthcare professionals trust with their own treatment – something he considers a true privilege.
His commitment to continuous improvement doesn’t stop at dentistry. Whether refining a treatment plan or refining his hiking stamina, he approaches both with focus, discipline and determination.
So why Everest?
For Nikhil the draw of Everest isn’t about standing on one of the world’s highest summits – the Base Camp is 5,364 meters above sea level – but about something far more personal.
“I love nature and being in a landscape that dwarfs ego and is humbling,” he explains.
“At 55, it’s a personal benchmark of what’s still possible. And as someone who loves photography, the Himalayas are a dream – light, texture and scale unlike anywhere else.”
The idea first took root during lockdown, after a planned Kilimanjaro climb was cancelled. Turning 50 prompted reflection for Nikhil; turning 55 has reignited the challenge, this time with the Himalayas firmly in his sights.
Training with attitude for altitude
Balancing a busy full-time Orthodontic practice with expedition training is no small feat.
Early mornings, weekends and protected training windows are now part of his weekly routine – proof that the discipline required in dentistry translates well to mountain preparation!
“A typical week for me will be… a weekly hike (soon increasing to two), two strength sessions focusing on legs, core and posterior chain, one to two cardio sessions (stairs, incline treadmill or cycling) and daily mobility work to protect joints and prevent injury.
“The biggest mental challenge? Accepting vulnerability… especially physical vulnerability.
“Pushing through fatigue and accepting discomfort as part of the journey has been the hardest shift,” he says.
“Mental preparation plays an equally important role: visualising long days, unpredictable weather and rehearsing calm breathing for high-altitude conditions.”
More than a mountain milestone
Reaching Everest Base Camp will represent more than a physical milestone.
“If there’s one thing I hope this journey shows, it’s that growth doesn’t stop at any age. You’re still growing. You’re still capable. You’re still curious!
“To my patients it’s a thank you for your trust in me, both as a clinician and as a person. I’m still learning every day, and I hope this shows that it’s always possible to keep challenging yourself.
“To our team it’s to show leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about vulnerability, courage and balance. We’ve faced challenges together over the past 20 years, and I’m so grateful for your support and encouragement.
“And to the wider community it’s that adventure keeps the spirit young. Dream boldly. Set yourself goals that stretch you.
“None of this would be possible without my biggest supporters – my wife, my family, my friends, my incredible work family at the practice, and our patients and local community who I know will be cheering me on every step of the way.”
Reaching a peak for purpose
Nikhil is fundraising alongside his trek, and every donation will help make a meaningful difference to his chosen charity SNAP.
“As an Orthodontist working in Brentwood, I treat predominantly children. Therefore, a charity like SNAP which helps children with additional needs as well as their families, is one close to my heart and I’m grateful for all donations.”
If you would like to support Nikhil on his journey to Everest Base Camp, you can donate via his fundraising page.
“Every contribution, no matter the size, will help spur me on as I climb higher – one steady step at a time!”
