The Commitment To Choosing Dentistry As My Career

The integrity and rigorous nature of dentistry combined with my love of science has inspired me to pursue a career that alleviates suffering. My initial exposure to taking dentistry as a prospective career path came on a visit to the dentist with my grandfather for a root canal treatment. I witnessed the close relationships that a dentist creates with his patients from the level of care given to my own family member. The visible boost in confidence he gained after this experience motivated me to find out more about the dental profession. For me, the idea of meeting and working with new people on a daily basis appeared very rewarding and has led me to become resolute to train as a dentist. My decision to study dentistry was affirmed by one month of work experience at a General Dental Practice [GDP]. I witnessed a number of procedures such as tooth crowning, endodontic procedures and fillings. I had the opportunity to interact with patients from a variety of backgrounds and to observe the dentist carry out a range of treatments. Observing patient consultations, I learnt the importance of patient confidentiality and autonomy when devising treatment plans.

The Dentist’s ability to empathise and manage nervous patients was remarkable. For instance, witnessing the skills required by a dentist to reduce patient anxieties and fears led to a successful outcome and frequently instilled confidence. While shadowing a multi-disciplinary team I saw how each patient needed individualised treatments. I learned that dentist-patient confidentiality is extremely important in maintaining a professional distance from patients. Furthermore, effective communication between multidisciplinary teams, such as the Dentist and the Laboratory Technicians, became more apparent as vital for delivering care. Volunteering at Care Home for 3 years, has allowed me to exercise my commitment, care and compassion. Witnessing the elderly suffering from dementia, motivated me to learn more; as such I read the journal 'The Dementia Guide', which helped me to appreciate the bridge between psychological and physical illness. Working for a packaging business for the past 2 years, of which I have now become Assistant Manager, has not only allowed me to utilise my problem solving and interpersonal skills but also demonstrate my leadership skills. Furthermore, spending a fortnight of work experience at Bradford Royal Infirmary I witnessed the importance of correct diagnosis and implementation of treatment, as well as effective administration of both local and general anaesthetics. My experiences at the hospital, care home and GDP have given me a greater understanding of the link between health and social care and an insight into the whole process of patient treatment.

As the head charity officer on the Sixth Form Committee, I rose to the challenge to organise a cake sale to raise a milestone of £600 for the Colour Run and Macmillan's Cancer research. I am a keen artist and I am currently taking part in a Fine Art course to improve my manual dexterity and to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Boxing at Karmand Boxing Club since the age of 12 immensely improved my hand to eye co-ordination and flexibility to adapt to new situations particularly during sparring situations. Balancing these various commitments is challenging but has vastly improved my time management skills. During my gap year I have organised more extensive work experience in different areas of dentistry including private practice and Dental labs. I will expand my knowledge about the profession with experiences in orthodontics and hospital dentistry. These experiences will help me to acquire a broader understanding of the whole dental industry and demonstrate my commitment to choosing dentistry as a career. Thus, I believe I have the requisite skills, academic ability and personality to be successful working as a dentist.