Dentistry

Why dentistry?

Dentistry plays an important role on people’s overall quality of life, removing pain and restoring their self-confidence. It includes the care of the mouth based on medicine and science that involves the cure and prevention of diseases in addition to the replacement and repair of teeth. Patients seeking treatment will often be vulnerable, in pain and nervous about their impending treatment. The role of a dentist is therefore suited to people who possess the communication skills to gain the trust of patients in their care.

Studying dentistry leads to a variety of careers which offer high levels of personal and professional development. It is a hands-on role where every day brings new challenges. Dentists can be based in the community, in public health roles and in dental hospitals. Some dentists choose to work as clinical academics, where they have responsibilities for training the next generation of dentists or conducting research, as well as working in the NHS to provide care to patients.

Dentists’ roles come with a lot of responsibility and can be very demanding. However, if you enjoy continually developing your skills, honing your scientific knowledge and working as part of a team, then dentistry may be for you.

What makes a good dentist?

Dentists need to be able apply their scientific knowledge in clinical settings, and therefore academic ability and an aptitude for problem solving is key to the selection of candidates. Dental schools look for candidates who demonstrate high levels of commitment, motivation, resilience and concern for others, all of which are needed to maintain high standards of patient care.

Skills and attributes of an ideal candidate to dentistry

  • Motivation to study dentistry and genuine interest in the dental profession
  • Demonstrate having a caring nature, being empathetic and respectful of the views of others
  • Be diligent, ethical and honest
  • Work in a team and have the capacity to act as a leader
  • Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills
  • The ability to reflect on your own work and possess insight into your own strengths and weaknesses
  • Be self-critical and self-motivating
  • Demonstrate resilience and the ability to deal with difficulty
  • Possess high levels of personal organisation
  • Demonstrate high levels of academic ability
  • Plan and think on the spot, enjoy problem solving and analysing information
  • Show strong evidence of manual dexterity, creativity and spatial awareness
  • Possess the ability to deal effectively with uncertainty and manage risk