Introduction

A career in Dentistry was not something that I had ever imagined myself doing until the 3rd and final year of studying Biomedical Science at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. Considering various career options, I knew that I enjoyed science, specifically human physiology, and felt drawn more towards working in healthcare rather than using my skills in a more scientific or research-based setting. I decided to arrange some work experience to gain a better insight into the profession. After spending a few weeks observing dental procedures in both a dental practice and in a dental hospital, I decided that I would like to pursue a career in Dentistry. Following graduating with a degree in Biomedical Science, I was accepted onto the 5-year course to study Dentistry at Newcastle University.

Education & Training

Studying dentistry at Newcastle was an excellent experience. The course was well organised and very broad in terms of the subject areas that we were exposed to. Everything from learning human anatomy by dissecting human cadavers, to learning how to use a dental drill to cut teeth on ‘phantom heads’, to performing dentistry on real patients (with close supervision) was well taught and thorough. Despite the course being intense and hard work at times, my year-group of 90 or so students all got on with each other really well, and we had a lot of fun along the way. The final exams were difficult, but we all passed successfully which was a huge relief! Although Dental School gives you knowledge, and a stamp of approval to say that you are safe and competent, it is only really during your subsequent ‘foundation year’ working in a busy dental practice whereby you really gain your experience! I returned to the Midlands and worked as a Foundation Dentist for a year at Webheath Dental Practice in Redditch. I developed my diagnostic and clinical skills whilst working there with my trainer Dr Thegan Moodley who mentored me throughout the year. This was an excellent grounding and gave me the skills and confidence to practice dentistry independently. The following year I was offered a position of being an associate dentist at a busy NHS dental practice in Smethwick, West Midlands. One of the benefits of working in general dental practice is that you can get to know your patients and develop rapport with them over time. I enjoyed treating anxious patients and providing them with a positive experience, thus gaining their trust and helping them to overcome their fear of dental treatment.

Hospital Jobs

I enjoyed General Dental Practice but was keen to further develop my Restorative and Oral Surgery skills, so applied to do DF2 training. I completed 2 years of training at Birmingham Dental Hospital in the Restorative Dentistry/Oral Medicine and Oral Surgery Departments. I really enjoyed those two years as I worked alongside and was taught and mentored by various specialists and consultants within these various specialties. I was exposed to more rare conditions and specialist cases which had been referred into the hospital by General Dental Practitioners. I was also able to further develop my clinical and diagnostic skills during this time. I really enjoyed my time working in oral surgery and began to see the specialty of Oral Surgery as something that I wanted to concentrate on.

I then applied to do a year of Dental Core Training in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at Worcester Hospital. This was a challenging year. I was effectively working as a junior doctor in the head and neck department of a major hospital. I was responsible for assessing and treating patients with head and neck injuries in A&E as well as looking after patients who were on the ward following surgery. I assisted in Oral and Maxillofacial surgery theatres during major head and neck cancer treatments which gave me a broader understanding of the patient journey from first diagnosis of cancer to surgery and the recovery process.  

Current Role

My current role is Specialty Dentist in Oral Surgery at Birmingham Dental Hospital. I work as part of a large team to assess and treat patients who have been referred to the hospital. I also have my own surgical lists which I perform under local anaesthetic, intravenous sedation and I treat children under general anaesthetic. Each day is varied, and I work as part of an excellent team of nurses, specialists and consultants. I regularly teach dental nurses, undergraduate dental students and more junior dentists who are undertaking core training roles. 

My future aim is to do specialty training in Oral Surgery and work as an Oral Surgeon both in the hospital and in primary care. 

Tips for future dentists

If you are considering applying for Dental School, make sure you get some work experience first as this will show you exactly what is involved in day-to-day Dentistry.

For current dental students, I would recommend doing a Dental Core Training job after your Dental Foundation Training year as it will give you really good experience which you will benefit from even if you go on to work long-term in General Dental Practice.