CHANGING the way in which dentists are viewed has helped Basingstoke’s favourite dentist claim top position in The Dentistry Top 50.

Dr Milad Shadrooh, now more commonly known as The Singing Dentist, came out as number one in the annual list by website dentistry.co.uk – which ranks the most influential figures within the dental industry.

The Chequers Dental Surgery dentist beat the likes of prime minister Theresa May, health secretary Jeremy Hunt and Sara Hurley – chief dental officer for NHS England – to earn the title.

Dr Milad soared to fame last year after his videos, which parody music tracks with lyrics about oral healthcare, went viral on social platforms such as The Lad Bible.

His positive messages about oral hygiene has captured the attention of audiences across the world, with the dentist now a constant figure on national television delivering his message.

But when Dr Milad was texted by a friend to say he had collected the title, he thought it was a joke.

“I was very gobsmacked to be honest,” Dr Milad told The Gazette.

“I couldn’t believe it, when I heard I thought it was a wind-up as I’ve never been in the top 50, let alone number one. But to be there, I’m grateful for all the support.

I can’t believe the people I’m ahead of. It’s crazy.”

Since Dr Milad released his first video, the dentist has appeared on BBC South Today, This Morning, Good Morning Britain and filled in for fellow Basingstoke resident doctor Hilary Jones on Lorraine’s sofa.

Earlier this year approximately 60 million people watched his parody of Ed Sheeran’s Shape of You.

Dr Milad said: “I think showing the profession in a positive way and showing people dentists are more friendly, it has an effect on the industry.

“The message is resonating within dentistry – bringing that bit of fun to an industry that isn’t fun. I’m so glad it’s having the impact I hoped it would.”

Visit singingdentist.com.