The Things I Like The Most About Dentistry

Having orthodontic treatment for four continuous years helped me realise that dentistry is more than just procedure. The rapport built between the patients is developed over time; allowing them to entrust the dentist to give them the smile they deserve; a smile that means the world to individuals. To me dentistry is not just a regular job; it is a way of living that I wish to be a part of. Having good oral health is necessary to feel great both psychologically and physically as our dental imperfections can makes us feel self conscious. My time at an NHS dental practice reinforced my passion for dentistry further. For two weeks, I was fascinated by the variety of treatments I observed such as complex root canal procedures, various stages of dentures, polishing, extractions and fillings. Shadowing a dental surgeon enhanced my understanding regarding the sheer complexity and high demands of the job.

For example, the time constriction for each patient; whilst still being able to appreciate the rewards of the profession and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Additionally, I gained an insight into different aspects of working within a busy surgery, in particular understanding how a dental practice operates from a successful business perspective. Alongside the work experience, throughout my A-Levels my interests in dentistry continued to flourish.

Maths has enabled me to think critically facilitating my problem solving skills. The intense detail of biology never fails to amaze me; particularly human genetics and how it has all linked to one Mitochondrial Eve. I predominantly appreciate performing organ dissections and through biological experiments I realise that manual skills such as precision and excellent hand-eye coordination is key in dentistry. I have worked and communicated with people from different walks of life; communicating with people of all ages through voluntary work at a Nursery and local library. I developed my people skills whilst being calm but assertive, a quality that improved my consistent perseverance in difficult situations. My part time job tutoring children, of all backgrounds developed my verbal skills as tutoring requires me to confidently explain complex scientific concepts in basic terms aimed at different level of understanding. Furthermore, I have learnt to be empathetic and patient with others especially since my grandad’s diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease during his final years. I was able to express my compassion and sympathy by assisting him continuously in his fragile state. Helping him feel reassured and comforted made me feel proud and honoured; an impact I would love to have on future patients as a dentist.

As a hobby, I enjoy baking all sorts of desserts. Decorating occasion cakes involves intricate piping and modelling; improving my precision, attention to detail as well as my hand-eye coordination. Similarly, delicate fondant work is achieved by using various fondant tools, patience, perseverance and creativity. I utilise my baking skills into giving back to the community by baking for a number of charity events. I also have a keen interest in swimming, a sport I participate in to de-stress. I have an uncontrollable hunger to enter the world of dentistry; to further reflect my compassion, precision, commitment and communicational skills into a demanding, but rewarding and worthwhile life-long career. The pleasure of adapting a person’s life by giving them a beautiful smile is immeasurable; the chance to alleviate pain and suffering is a rare honour that I long to be part of. I believe my thirst for knowledge, desire to succeed and drive to reach my potential will help me become the dentist I want to be. A dentist that positively changes people lives, confidence and personality. It starts with the mouth and ends with a smile.