A passion for patient wellbeing
Carlton Dental Care has been serving families and individuals in Christchurch since 1963. While our facilities, technology and services have changed over time, our commitment to patient care and comfort is the same today as it was over sixty years ago.
In 2023, dentists Kelvin and Lydia Khoo purchased Carlton Dental Care from Rob Blackburne, who still works at the clinic.
ABOUT US
Kelvin Khoo
Principal Dentist
Kia ora! I hail from Malaysia. I pursued my dental education at the University of Otago and honed my skills in Invercargill and Christchurch after graduating in 2013. My wife and I lived in Invercargill for eight years before moving to the garden city which we now call home. Throughout my career I have mastered all aspects of dentistry and am particularly passionate about empowering patients with the knowledge they need to achieve good oral health. Witnessing the transformative power of a smile is incredibly rewarding for me. I make it a priority to stay updated with the latest technology and knowledge in dentistry to provide the best care possible. Beyond dentistry, you will find me savoring whisky, dabbling in amateur barista skills, and perfecting the art of grilling a succulent steak. Cheers to good health and a toothy grin!
Lydia Lim
Dentist
I graduated from the University of Otago in 2014 and spent eight years working in Invercargill before moving to Ōtautahi with my family. Interestingly, my journey into dentistry was sparked by an encounter with a dentist who scolded me for apparent neglect in oral hygiene. Even though I had been diligently brushing my teeth twice daily, I was still struggling with bleeding gums. Determined to address the issue, I embarked on a journey into dentistry which quickly became my passion. I enjoy being part of a constantly evolving field. I am always eager to learn the latest techniques and cutting-edge technology to enhance my patients’ comfort and satisfaction. Outside of work I sing in our church choir, love travelling, and am always on the lookout for exciting activities to share with our two young daughters.
Rob Blackburne
Dentist
I wanted to be a dentist from a young age and have always been pleased with my choice of career. After achieving my Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 1981, I worked briefly in Mosgiel before moving to the UK. Admittedly, the move was prompted more by my interest in climbing than dentistry! But I stayed there, working for 12 years before heading home to New Zealand where I acquired Carlton Dental Care. Over my professional life I have especially loved meeting a variety of characters, assisting in interesting cases and pursuing my interest in sleep dentistry. I always try to give my patients a realistic appraisal of their needs and provide a comfortable, reassuring service. Outside of dentistry I enjoy walking, hunting, fishing and of course, climbing the beautiful mountains of the South Island.
Emma Hobbs
Practice Manager
I started working as a dental assistant in 2001. Alongside my work I have pursued ongoing education in dentistry, earning my NZDA Dental Surgery Assistant Certificate in 2006, Invisalign Accreditation in 2008, Dento-facial Orthopaedics and Early Interceptive Orthodontics in 2009 (Sydney) and Dental Assistants Role in Supporting Complete Dentistry in 2016 (Florida). Over my career I’ve worked in a number of Kiwi communities including Thames, Auckland, Dunedin and now, Christchurch. For me, dentistry is all about people. I enjoy building relationships with colleagues and patients, and doing everything I can to provide a positive experience from start to finish. Beyond work, I volunteer for NZ Gifts of Love and Strength who provide care packages for youth affected by sexual harm. I also enjoy cooking (and eating!) and creative crafts.
Christy Immanuel
Dental Assistant
I am a registered dentist from India, having earned my Bachelor of Dental Surgery there in 2014. Since moving to Christchurch in 2017 I have been working as a dental assistant, caring for patients and their teeth. I joined Carlton Dental Care in 2024 and it is a pleasure to be part of such a friendly team delivering ‘best of the best’ treatment for every patient. My in-depth dental training means I can anticipate our dentists’ needs and help problem solve our patients’ issues. The variety in dentistry is endless and makes for an incredibly interesting career. On the weekends you are likely to find me spending time with my young daughter—shopping, exploring the park or tending our garden. We love to plant things together and watch them grow.
Jocelyn Sim
Dental Assistant
I recently joined Carlton Dental Care to expand my dental knowledge after training as an assistant for a brief period in Nelson. I’m excited to contribute to a positive work environment and grow within the dental field. I enjoy meeting new people and appreciate the variety in my day, thanks to the wide range of treatments we provide. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that we help patients in pain feel more comfortable and relaxed after their visits. Outside of work, you can find me at the gym, exploring the beautiful outdoors of Canterbury, or discovering new restaurants with friends.
OUR APPROACH
Our approach is to take the fear out of dentistry for our patients. To that end, we have created a warm, welcoming environment where people feel at ease from the moment they walk in the door.
We are also focused on patient education, answering questions and explaining treatments in an easy-to-understand way so that people are empowered to care for their oral health at home.
TESTIMONIALS
I have been coming for years. Service and experience very professional and friendly
A. DUNCAN
A recent interaction with Kelvin convinced me that he doesn't want to do dental work that doesn't need to be done. Concerning work that might be required later, he explains options well. He is calm, warm, and lovely. I'm pleased that he's my dentist.
M. JACK
Great friendly staff, was made aware of everything that needed done, and was given a plan for the future.
N. WILKIE
TESTIMONIALS
Great customer service, friendly, welcoming, Professional and easy to talk with Kelvin, thank you, you have alleviated some of my fear of dentistry.
R.V. JEENES
Staff are all very friendly and professional. Great explanations with photos about their findings. No pressure to take up treatment recommendations. Would highly recommend them.
K.A. WILLIAMS
Staff friendly, fast efficient service, gives information well
M. ROUSE
TESTIMONIALS
Great friendly staff. Was able to be seen promptly. Kelvin my dentist was excellent. Thanks very much.
P. ORMANDY
Was my first time having a filling and I was nervous about the injections but they were pretty much painless and it took about half an hour all up !
I. RALSTON
Friendly welcoming receptionist. Dentist Lydia lovely - Great explanations and gentle. Pleasant dental assistant.
D. AYNSLEY
TESTIMONIALS
Very welcoming reception. Comfortable waiting room. And Lydia is great.
M. KENNEDY
Friendly, professional. Second time here and would strongly recommend
G. THOMAS
Very friendly staff, I was very embarrassed regarding getting dentures but dentist very kind and professional
B. JACKSON
TESTIMONIALS
Very efficient service, given options to choose. Very knowledgeable and caring .
L. STUART
I had Lydia for the first time and she was lovely, professional and reassuring. The dental assistant was also great and the room is modern and comfortable.
K. BRISTED
The overall, quality of service, professional advice, quality of work and the way you are treated as a person not a number
Y. MCBREATY
TESTIMONIALS
Lydia has a lovely caring manner. She is very gentle
J. JACKSON
Good location, on-site parking, lovely premises, friendly energised staff. Rob seems to really love his work, and that is reflected in his manner and helpfulness.
C. TUCKER
Lydia was professional but caring, which I liked and didnt make me feel like just another patient.
J. GWYNNE
why carlton dental care
At Carlton Dental Care, our team comprises highly skilled and compassionate professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional dental care. Our experienced dentists are experts in their fields, continuously updating their knowledge and skills to provide the latest and most effective treatments. They are committed to offering personalized care, taking the time to understand each patient's unique needs and concerns.
Our dental assistants are integral to our team, offering support during procedures and ensuring that patients feel comfortable and at ease. Their friendly and approachable nature helps create a welcoming environment where patients can feel relaxed and confident in the care they receive.
The entire team at Carlton Dental Care is dedicated to fostering a positive patient experience, from the moment you walk through our doors to the completion of your treatment. We understand that visiting the dentist can be a daunting experience for some, and our team is committed to making your visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible. By combining professional expertise with a friendly and caring approach, Carlton Dental Care's team strives to build lasting relationships with our patients, helping them achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
