No one else in my family works in dentistry. However, my mum was a nurse before transitioning into teaching, so I suppose I had a bit of an advantage when it came to the human biology side of things.
At the end of the day, I just wanted to get my hands in people’s mouths as quickly as possible!
With no prior experience, I started as a trainee dental nurse and quickly found that I really enjoyed it. After completing my NEBDN qualification, I realised early on that this was the field I wanted to pursue. I’d watch the clinicians and think, ‘I’d like to do that’. I briefly considered dentistry, but ultimately chose dental hygiene – especially given the two-year diploma versus the 5+ years required for dentistry. It was absolutely the right choice for me. At the end of the day, I just wanted to get my hands in people’s mouths as quickly as possible!
I graduated as a dental hygienist from Liverpool University Dental Hospital in 2003. This year marks 22 years qualified, a milestone I’m incredibly proud of. Studying at Liverpool was an experience I will always treasure. I have many fond memories of my time there and the friendships I made there have stood the test of time. Unfortunately, the School of Dental Hygiene in Liverpool has since closed.
After graduating, I returned part-time to the mixed NHS/private family clinic where my dental career began, staying for five years. At the same time, I took on a part-time role at a prestigious specialist and cosmetic clinic, gaining invaluable experience over the next five years. My locum work gave me the opportunity to adapt quickly, think on my feet, and tackle any challenges that arose, often creating solutions where none existed. I’ve worked across a wide range of clinical settings in London, both as a locum and a permanent team member, which has helped me hone my skills and broaden my clinical expertise.
Over the years, I’ve worked with extraordinary colleagues, forming lasting friendships that continue to enrich my professional journey.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with numerous specialists, learning from colleagues in areas such as periodontics, implants, cosmetic smile makeovers, and orthodontics. These experiences reinforced the importance of good oral health and developing strong communication skills to engage patients in managing their own oral care.
I’ve treated a wide range of patients, including children, the homeless, dental phobic, students, professionals, celebrities, family, friends and everyone in between. A particularly unique experience was being part of the dental team at an international hospital in Beijing. Volunteering for Crisis at Christmas was another highlight of my career, and I’d love to take part again in the future. Over the years, I’ve worked with extraordinary colleagues, forming lasting friendships that continue to enrich my professional journey.
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