Who We Are
Meet the Dentists Behind the Smiles
Friendly faces. Expert care. Local roots.
At Lewvan Dental, our dentists aren’t just highly trained—they’re passionate about making every visit feel comfortable, informative, and personalized. Get to know the people who care for your smile like it’s their own.
Dr. David W. Alport
BSC, DMD
I believe great dentistry is about more than healthy teeth — it’s about helping people feel confident, understood, and cared for. As a partner at Landmark Dental, I take a relationship-driven approach to patient care. My goal is to listen carefully, explain clearly, and create treatment plans that are thoughtful, predictable, and built to last.
I believe in working with the natural teeth and have a strong interest in orthodontics, comprehensive treatment planning and restorative dentistry, with a focus on long-term function and preventive care. I’m committed to continuing education and staying current with modern techniques and technology so my patients receive care that reflects the highest standard of our profession.
Outside the clinic, I’m a husband and father of three, and family is my priority. Most mornings start early with training — whether preparing for endurance events or simply staying disciplined in my fitness routine. The principles that guide my training — daily habits and steady improvement — are the same ones I bring into my practice every day.
I’m grateful for the trust my patients place in me. My aim is simple: to provide dentistry that improves lives, builds confidence, and earns long-term trust.
Dr. Derek B. Friesen
BMus, M.M., B.D.S.
Growing up, my Dad always used to say, “find a job that you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.”
It is absolute dream-come-true to become a partner in the practice that my father built.
I love coming to work every day because dentistry gives me an opportunity to help others while utilizing some of my strengths such being as a problem-solver and an empathetic person. I love what I do because I have the privilege of helping people improve their lives through thoughtful treatment, education and prevention. I enjoy all facets of dentistry but have particular interest in oral surgery, implants, root canal therapy, airway dentistry and fillings.
I grew up watching my Dad treat his patients like extensions of our family. I am grateful now for the opportunity to see many of those patients who have been with us for nearly four decades!
Beyond the office, my life revolves around my family. I am so lucky to have my best friend – my loving and supportive wife. Together we are blessed to be raising four beautiful daughters.
I am also passionate about music and community involvement. My life in music as a trumpet player has taken me all over the world and has helped to broaden my perspective on people and culture. While life is busy seeing patients and being a family-man, I still try to find time to perform and teach music. I also make time to give back to the community – volunteering my time and sharing my knowledge – especially with organizations that promote oral health and overall well-being.
I see each day as a new opportunity. One where I strive to make a positive impact and to be an inspiration for those around me.
Dr. Connor F. E. Gorman
DMD
I’m committed to providing dental care in a calm, supportive environment for patients of all ages. I especially enjoy working with children and helping create positive early dental experiences. I use nitrous oxide and offer sedation options when appropriate, and I also provide care under general anesthesia at Pasqua Hospital when required to support patient comfort and safety.
I have an interest in caring for patients who experience dental anxiety or who may not have seen a dentist in some time. I believe in taking the time to listen, explain findings clearly, and review treatment options so patients can make informed decisions about their oral health. I walk patients through their X-rays, discuss what they show, and answer any questions along the way.
Outside of the clinic, I’m a proud husband to my wife Dani and a dad to our three children, Gray, Scottie, and Baker. I enjoy spending time with my family, cheering the kids on at hockey and their activities, and staying connected with friends and community.
Dr. Nikhala Thakkar
DMD
I feel incredibly fortunate to have found a career that blends my love for science with my passion for connecting with people. Growing up in Regina in a family of healthcare providers, I’ve always known this was the path I was meant to take. The hands-on, detail-oriented nature of the profession and the opportunity to work with people from diverse backgrounds are what drew me to dentistry.
As the first female dentist at Landmark Dental, I’m proud to contribute to a culture that celebrates diversity and inclusivity. I believe in treating others as I wish to be treated, and I strive to help create an environment where every patient feels respected, comfortable, and valued. I enjoy taking time to listen and understand each patient’s unique needs and collaborating with them to create a personalized path to better oral health. I am thrilled to have joined a practice that shares my dedication and compassion for patient-centered care.
As a new associate, it is a true privilege to work alongside such experienced and talented mentors at Landmark Dental. I look forward to growing personally and professionally while helping my patients achieve a smile that makes them feel their very best!
Dr. Olivia Gables
BDS
Born and raised in Regina, Saskatchewan, I’ve always had strong ties to the local community, particularly through soccer. I played throughout my youth at the community level, attended ID camps across Canada, and completed a season with the University of Regina Cougars Women’s Soccer team. While athletics taught me discipline and teamwork, it was during my last year of high school that I discovered my passion for dentistry. After shadowing Dr.Friesen, I realized that a career in dentistry would allow me to combine my love of science with the creative aspects of patient care. That early exposure set me on a clear path, and I later earned my Bachelor of Dental Surgery from James Cook University in Australia. My time there provided not only a strong clinical foundation but also a broader perspective on delivering patient-centred care.
Every day, I’m inspired by the opportunity to restore smiles and confidence while delivering compassionate, high-quality care. I feel privileged to work alongside like-minded professionals and to benefit from exceptional mentorship—elements that fuel my dedication to continuous learning and patient advocacy.
Joining the Landmark Dental team has been a true highlight. I share the practice’s vision of delivering unsurpassed patient care—treating each individual as part of our extended dental family. I’m excited to contribute to Landmark’s legacy of excellence and to help guide our patients on their path to optimal oral health.
Dr. Caleigh Grunert
DMD
My interest in dentistry began early on—I genuinely loved going to the dentist as a child. I even looked forward to the foam fluoride trays! Having such a positive experience at a young age showed me firsthand how important those initial visits can be and the lasting impact we, as healthcare providers, can have on our patient’s lives.
That foundation naturally grew into a career shaped by my love of helping people, my curiosity for problem-solving, and my creative mindset. Dentistry allows me to combine all three. Every patient and every smile is unique, which is what makes this work so meaningful. I truly enjoy getting to know my patients, understanding their goals, and collaborating with them to develop individualized treatment plans that meet their specific needs.
I graduated as a dentist in 2022 and began my career in Yorkton. While there I gained invaluable experience and took great pride in serving my hometown community. My transition to Landmark has been a seamless one. Not only has the move allowed me to be here with my fiancé, who farms outside the city, but I’ve also found a clinic that shares my commitment to continual growth and striving for excellence in patient centred care.