Toothpik

Josh Nivern

toothpik.co.uk

3rd Prize Pre-Trading Winner

Josh Nivern receiving award

Dr. Joshua Nivern, founder of Toothpik.co.uk, is spearheading a groundbreaking venture set to transform the landscape of dental care access. With a blend of medical expertise, a passion for innovation, and a drive to bridge gaps in healthcare, Dr. Nivern's journey from medicine to entrepreneurship is nothing short of inspiring.

From an early age, Dr. Joshua Nivern was immersed in the world of entrepreneurship. Growing up in a household where both parents served as company directors, he gleaned firsthand insights into the intricacies of business management. However, it was this dual exposure to early enterprising and the rigors of NHS medicine after his time at Leeds Medical School that truly ignited his entrepreneurial fervour.

During medical school, Dr. Nivern embarked on an intercalated degree in International Health, delving into the healthcare access of Nepali slums in Kathmandu. Navigating the corridors of NHS medicine and surgery, Dr. Nivern witnessed the systemic complexities and inherent inequalities ingrained within the healthcare system. Coupled with his family's involvement in managing companies, his experiences resonated deeply, highlighting the stark disparities in healthcare access and the profound impact of socio-economic factors on individuals' well-being. It was amidst these challenging environments that the seeds of his entrepreneurial spirit were sown, as he grappled with the pressing need for accessible and equitable healthcare solutions.

Thus, armed with a rich tapestry of experiences, both personal and professional, Dr. Joshua Nivern embarked on his entrepreneurial journey with Toothpik.co.uk. Drawing upon his deep-rooted understanding of the NHS and his unwavering commitment to bridging gaps in healthcare access, Toothpik emerges as not just a business venture but a beacon of hope for those in need.

Today, Dr. Nivern practices as a GP, and his vision extends far beyond the confines of the clinic. His current project, Toothpik.co.uk, is poised to revolutionise the way individuals access dental care. In a world where NHS dentistry struggles under the weight of demand, and private treatments increasingly dominate, Toothpik accepts this, improves it and offers a beacon of hope.

Toothpik.co.uk is a dynamic web platform that seamlessly connects clients with dentists, prioritising convenience and quality. Through an intuitive interface, users can easily find the perfect dentist, streamlining the often daunting choice of over 10,000 practises. Toothpik's mission goes beyond convenience; it's about bridging gaps and restoring smiles.

Recognising the growing trend of DIY dentistry driven by lack of access and affordability, Toothpik is committed to giving back to the community. For every £100 spent through the platform, £1 will be allocated to a fund aimed at financing smile makeovers for individuals across the UK who are suffering from painful or embarrassing dental issues and cannot afford private treatment. Partnering with NHS dental providers, Toothpik will ensure that those in need receive the care they deserve, putting an end to the cycle of dental neglect.

Dr. Nivern's journey from medicine to entrepreneurship has been bolstered by the unwavering support of Spark. Grateful for the opportunities afforded to him, he credits Spark for providing a nurturing environment where ideas flourish and dreams take flight. From pitching his business concept to esteemed colleagues to receiving invaluable feedback, networking and mentorship, Spark has been instrumental in shaping Toothpik's trajectory.

Spark's network has been a wellspring of insight and collaboration, connecting Dr. Nivern with like-minded individuals ranging from young, aspiring entrepreneurs to seasoned business veterans. Financial support from Spark has also played a pivotal role, providing inspiration, funding and confidence, alleviating the fear of failure and empowering Dr. Nivern to pursue his vision.

As Toothpik.co.uk continues to expand its telehealth reach and solidify its online presence in the dental landscape, Dr. Joshua Nivern's journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of innovation and (com)passion. With a pre-trading prize already achieved from SPARK and ambitious plans for the future, Toothpik is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of healthcare, one smile at a time.