My Drive To Become A Successful Dentist
The complex human anatomy, the various aspects considered during the development of treatment and the observable differences achieved through procedures is what sparked my interest in dentistry. Dentists applying their knowledge on oral health to improve lives of those within the community appeals to me. I believe my sympathetic nature and devotion to sciences combined, make me best equipped for both dentistry as a course and as a career. My deep interest for science led me to choose A-level Chemistry and Biology enabling me to develop technical skills required to carry out practicals and provided me with the analytic skills to make sense of problems and situations. Psychology at GCSE and A-level has taught me to make sense of human behaviour and what motivates an individual to do certain things. This deeper understanding enables me to better my interpretation of behaviour and in turn my communication skills which is valuable in the development of good dentist-patient relationships. Work experience within a dental clinic has made me more inquisitive as the effects it had on most patients was almost immediate.
After observing a number of procedures I learnt the importance of professionalism and teamwork. I grasped the importance of making the patient feel at ease as the dentist changed conversational styles appropriately and ensured all concerns were addressed prior to treatment. Teamwork and communication was vital to provide the most efficient level of care, as the dentist worked alongside the dental nurse. The dentist being able to work within demanding conditions during braces procedure yet continuing to provide the highest level of care with precision and concentration, I had found admirable. The most rewarding and motivating part of the experience was noticing how significant an impact the minor procedures had on the patients almost instantly. The King's Dental programme has given me with a true insight into dentistry and the demanding nature of this career path. Over the course of a year, I have carried out multiple projects while working with new individuals, allowing me to display my teamwork and communication skills. I was also able to experience a fraction of university life as I was taught by a PhD tutor for 5 tutorials, followed by the submission of an essay on sensorineural hearing loss in which I had achieved a 1st.
This had allowed me to develop my research skills which are vital when studying a course like dentistry as I had to look at various articles in order to find relevant information on damage and regeneration of hair cells. Taking part in various volunteering roles with Muslim Hands for 6 months and Queen Charlottes hospital for a month has enlightened me on the misfortunate health issues which some individuals cannot resolve due to circumstance, reinforcing my desire to become a dentist. Fundraising and taking part in various activities has taught me the flexibility of conversational styles as well as being conscious and empathetic similarly to how attentive a dentist would have to be with a patient. During my spare time I enjoy designing and sewing which requires a high level of precision and attention to detail when making a piece of clothing as I aim to achieve a vision in mind. In order to constantly better myself and build on my stamina I also swim every week. I am convinced that dentistry is the career which is best suited to me as my drive to constantly better myself and my compassion for others alongside my other skills, provides me with the skills required to become a successful dentist.
