My Motivation To Improve The Oral Health Of People As A Dentist
Poor oral health has been linked with systemic illnesses such as coronary heart disease and diabetes which may arbitrate links with mental health. The power that dentists have to improve the oral health of people, thus preventing the development of these life-threatening illnesses and by improving quality of life of many people through allowing them to feel more confident, motivates me to pursue a career in dentistry.
My passion for dentistry has further developed after attending a lecture by Professor Mark Woolford, who discussed the staggering increase in the cases of oral cancer, as well as the possible link between gum disease and the cognitive decline in Alzheimer's, reinforcing the link between poor oral health and the possible development of life-threatening diseases. I later went on to research the trends in oral cancer across the 19th and 20th century, allowing me to study the link between alcohol and tobacco consumption as being the main cause of oral cancer, particular in men. Also, how societal demands and changes have influenced the increase in oral cancer amongst women in Britain over the last 40 years due to alcohol and tobacco consumption to become more prevalent. Studying Biology at A-level has contributed towards my passion in understanding the structure of the human anatomy, and how it how has been carefully engineered to link different functions to maintain human life. Chemistry and Mathematics has contributed to enhancing and developing my analytical and problem-solving skills. Reasoning in a logical order and empathizing with the patient are indispensable skills to being a successful dentist, in particular, when being faced with a convoluted scenario, in which there are numerous paths to go forth with the procedure, requiring the evaluation of the benefits and drawbacks to each procedure, particularly taking into account each individual's circumstances.
Outside of school, I successfully completed a three-day program with King's College London, Dent View. This involved a clinical placement at Guy's Hospital, where I was able to rotate through the different fields of dentistry, including oral surgery, sedation and orthodontics, as well as observing dental students. During this time, my work experience at Queen's Gate orthodontics and volunteering at Hammersmith hospital, has highlighted the importance of compassion and clear communication skills in being able to maintain a good relationship with patients is key. These experiences enabled me to gain confidence when engaging with patients. Also, allowing me to develop my team work and time management skills to assure that patient needs are met efficiently and satisfactorily, through collectively working as a group, which are essential skills that are also carried forth in dentistry. Subsequently, completing the ASDAN short course in volunteering and gaining 3 credits has enabled me to reflect on my volunteering experience and evaluate how successful I was in adhering to the key skills such as professionalism to ensure patient satisfaction and a high level of confidentiality is upheld. Participating in the Reader Leader program for key stage three students at my school has allowed me to develop my language and train of thought to adapt to the needs to the students.
I believe as a dentist, it is vital I am able to break down complex procedures and advice to make it understandable and plausible for all patients, regardless of their age. My experience of dentistry so far has confirmed my ambition to become a doctor. I have the foundational knowledge, ambition and commitment required to be both a successful student and dentist, all of which require hard work and dedication, which I value, and I know I will rise to this challenge.
