“Dentistry…a science art” – This is what I wrote in my opening line to my personal statement. Choosing Dentistry was a decision that I did not regret, but it has been full with unexpected surprises.
Here are some of our top picks for Dentistry.
Pros:
1. Lifestyle that is balanced.
Some dentists work part-time. They do not work extremely unsociable hours. It is ideal if you wish to have a child and/or pursue other interests in addition to your career.
2. Highly respected profession.
As a healthcare professional, you are a vital community figure. People often look to your advice/guidance to get the best care.
3. Job Stability.
Oral health is essential. It is the gateway into the rest of the body. As people age and become more conscious of aesthetics, it is likely that there will be many people who are in need of your services. One of my friends once said to me while I was applying that “as long folks have teeth, you’ll have a job.” (But please be cautious).
4. Exciting variety. Every day will be different.
It is a demanding profession that will challenge you. You will always be learning something new. It’s not as easy as it seems. You never know what might happen next.
You can have a patient come in just minutes before closing and ask for a complete dental clearance.
5. Problem solving is possible through logic, creativity and science.
It is your responsibility manage a group of people and work together to find the best solution.
You may often show them and explain a range possible treatments, as well as the risks and advantages associated with each. This happens after an initial exam and carrying out any additional tests.
Dr. Dentistry is… a scientific science, to quote me You will be carving details to recreate natural tooth anatomy using a combination dentist materials and instruments.
6. People.
This is a simple one, but it is crucial to understand before you start any healthcare profession (not just Dentistry). Dentistry wouldn’t exist in the end without people. It would be much simpler to practice dentistry if we only treated teeth. However, it is not because you deal with people.
People are hard to please. You will be fine if you work with them, listen to their concerns, respect them, take detailed notes, and prepare for your sessions.
7. Self-employment/option of owning your business.
Dental School’s main goal is not to teach how to start a business. However, the focus of the school is to help you become a competent Dentist. There are numerous courses on how to open your own business or practice if you wish to do so. Dental recruitment offers a flexible career.
Cons:
1. High responsibility.
Every day you have to deal with a range of risks. It is important to give advice to patients about maintaining their oral hygiene. We are regularly told of cases in which patients come back years later with missing teeth, complaining that their dentist did not tell them how to care for them properly.
2. Challenging patients.
You may love a challenge but it can be difficult to manage a patient who is unhappy, angry, or complex. Even though you may need to modify your approach to managing each patient, the sooner that you understand that there is no one size fits all when it comes down to how you handle them. These patients are a great way to learn and improve your overall approach.
3. Unpredictability.
Although you may want to have variety, can you really handle it? Sometimes you won’t be able to know the truth until you’re actually there. This is a skill you can easily learn.
4. Stress.
Unfortunately, it is not possible to avoid this. After all, you are providing healthcare for patients. Some patients will be satisfied no matter what (but please be responsible). Other patients will not be happy, regardless of how hard you work to ensure the best possible dentistry. Take criticisms and reflect on yourself. It will help you become a better dentist.
5. Potential physical hazards (e.g. There are also risks for back pains and needle stick injuries.
Musculoskeletal problems are the leading reason for dentists to retire early. Do you feel like you’re in a job that requires you to sit down, crouch over your patient, and work in a small area with all sorts of sharp tools? ).
It is crucial to develop good habits early on. To avoid straining your spine in the long-term, it is essential to learn how to sit correctly.
6. Litigation
It is an ever-growing problem that affects the entire profession. A quick Google search will reveal countless stories about dentists getting sued for a variety of reasons. This can sometimes be overwhelming and seem inevitable, but we are constantly reminded as students that NOTES could be our saving grace.
Take detailed notes that are honest and complete about every conversation you have with your patients. This will help you to maintain a constant level of care at all stages. It will also allow you to act professional at all times. This will ensure that, if this happens to you, you know you have followed the law.
7. The media and the haters
Some people will hate YOU…not you personally (hopefully). However, many people don’t like visiting the dentist for any reason. They have a fear of having to drill their teeth and remove the tissue. Sorry to share the bad news.
There are many stories in the media that paint Dentists in poor light. These stories can be justified or unjustified. Sometimes it is difficult to find stories about “good” Dentists.
Although there are some pros and disadvantages, dentistry is still a rewarding career that allows you to use your skills in solving problems in a dynamic environment.
It’s people, practice, patience and commitment.
Your decision is final. No-one will be able sit for you on practical exams, or to see your patients.
Copyright – Classicalnet