HBDS Celebrates 40 Years of Quality Dentistry!

In 1983 Hout Bay's population was only 4000, and a young Dr Andy Effting faced a decision that would change his life. After declining a position in Claremont, he could either pack up and head for London, as had many of his fellow graduates or find an area that needed comprehensive dental care. Hout Bay ticked all the boxes, with the bonus that he fell in love with the beautiful valley and bay and its unique people.

Believe it or not, finding commercial premises at the time was almost impossible. Other than the harbour fishing enterprises, there were only a handful of businesses and virtually no commercial buildings. Dr Effting finally secured premises in 3 small rooms at the back of the Village Square, adjacent to the old Post Office and behind the Country Cupboard, Village Pet Food Company, Deli and Chardonnay restaurant. Yesca’s Teahouse currently occupies this space.

At first, the only employees were his wife, Alison, a repurposed radiographer who filled both reception and dental nursing duties, and Margaret Plaatjies, the cleaning lady. Then they enthusiastically opened the doors for business on 3 May 1983.

Within a fortnight, Hout Bay experienced its worst-known floods. The waters in the adjacent stream rose, flooding the outdoor area to the practice threshold. Andy and Alison spent a few sleepless nights hoping they wouldn't find the new dental chair reclining on the beach!

After only six weeks, there was no gap in the diary, and the practice grew exponentially. Soon bigger premises were required. They found a suitable plot between the Durr Estates building and the residential properties toward the beach on Victoria Avenue. They set about building Joslyn Place, and in 1988, the practice moved over to its current location.

Hout Bay Dental Studio is one of only a handful of original businesses that has its founder at the helm and continues to flourish after 40 years. From a single-dentist practice, it has grown phenomenally into the current comprehensive facility. HBDS has a complement of 18 staff, including four dentists, Drs Andy Effting, Nic Pretorius, Ivonne Meyer and David Malan; a periodontist - implantologist, Dr Emil Langenegger; and two oral hygienists, Rozelle Jacobs and Emma Lawrence. This team offers a comprehensive, professional service of the highest quality, encompassing cutting-edge treatment modalities.

The Hout Bay Dental Studio team is fully committed to pursuing excellence in dentistry. The HBDS dentists are so inspired that they are founder members of The South African Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry, sharing their knowledge and expertise with colleagues over the years.

Dr Andy Effting and Hout Bay Dental Studio thank all their patients, staff and colleagues for their loyal support and friendship over the past 40 years. HBDS looks forward to providing exceptional, world-class dental service to Hout Bay for many more!