In Podcast #17, Dr Amit Jilka shares exciting news about Abbey House Dental Rugeley, previously known as Avondale House Surgery dental practice. This historic practice in Rugeley has been serving patients since at least 1880 — and possibly even earlier.
Abbey House Dental purchased the practice as a group in September 2025, marking the beginning of a significant transformation. The goal is simple: honour the past while building a modern, high-standard dental facility for the future.
From the records available, the Avondale Practice dates back to 1880. It may be one of the oldest continuously running dental practices in the UK that is still operating as a dental practice today.
Dr. Jilka openly challenges anyone who knows of a longer-running dental practice with historical records to come forward.
Abbey House Dental Rugeley has preserved original appointment books dating back to the 1880s, including books from the 1890s and records from the World War I and World War II eras.
These books show fascinating insights into dentistry at the time, minimal clinical notes, beautiful handwritten entries, records of payments, and references to gold crowns and amalgam fillings.
As part of the refurbishment, these historic books will be displayed in the waiting room to showcase the practice’s legacy to the local community.
Abbey House Dental already operates practices in Stone and Stoke-on-Trent. Rugeley is located south of Stone and fits strategically within the group’s growing portfolio.
The location was strong, the building was large, and the practice services more NHS patients in Rugeley than any other practice in the area.
The practice had not been significantly updated for over a decade, which presented an exciting opportunity for full modernisation and transformation.
The transformation includes:
Importantly, all this work is being carried out while the practice continues to operate.
Abbey House Dental Rugeley is being upgraded with:
This ensures patients in Rugeley can access advanced dentistry locally without needing to travel.
Abbey House Dental Rugeley will continue to operate as a major NHS provider in the area.
At the same time, advanced treatments commonly associated with Abbey House Dental will also be available locally, including:
Rugeley is expanding rapidly with new housing developments and investment. Abbey House Dental aims to serve the community for the next 100 years by reinvesting immediately and maintaining high standards from day one.
Abbey House Dental Rugeley represents a rare blend of heritage and innovation. With roots tracing back to 1880 and a complete modern transformation underway, the practice stands as both a historic landmark and a forward-thinking dental centre.
Abbey House Dental purchased the Rugeley practice in September 2025.
The practice has documented records dating back to 1880 and possibly earlier.
Yes, NHS dentistry remains a primary focus of the practice.
Advanced treatments including dental implants, Invisalign, sedation and cosmetic smile makeovers will be available locally.
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“Abbey house dental is amazing. The staff are really professional. Milan, my dentist is an up and coming star I'm sure. How many people can…”
“Fantastic dental surgery. I’ve seen two dentists so far, Nicky and Kiri, as well as Elaine the Hygienist, all are really good, caring, patient and…”
“Thank you to all the staff that have looked after me during my dental treatment. Julie who held my hand while I had my sedation…”
“I’m very scared of the dentist so looked specifically for a sedation expert when trying to find a new surgery. The staff at Abbey House…”
“Excellent - attentive, courteous, friendly and a great job done fitting my implant. I highly recommend them.”
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