1. How did you decide on your career?
There were many reasons for my choosing dentistry as a career. I had always enjoyed the health sciences and was very interested in pursuing something in that field. I am someone who enjoys working with my hands, and so I found this type of work appealing. In addition, I enjoy working with people, and helping them, and so I felt that dentistry would satisfy this need as well.
I am a very family-oriented individual, and I wanted a career that would provide me with a lifestyle where my family could remain a priority. Dentistry helps me to fulfill this in that there are so many options available, such as working part-time, establishing your own practice, or working as an associate. There are also opportunities other than working in private practice. You may choose to become an instructor, or work in a hospital or community setting. I find it to be a very versatile career.
2. How did your education prepare you for your career?
My education provided me with the clinical skills and academic knowledge necessary to practice dentistry with competence.
Two things I feel that my education did not prepare me for include the business expertise needed to make a practice profitable, and the patient management skills needed to promote treatment options. I have found it necessary to develop these skills as I work.
3. What are the duties of your job?
First and foremost, my main job is to maintain and promote the oral health of my patients. In order to accomplish this, I must reassure and gain the trust of my patients; perform dental treatments, maintain the dental equipment and supplies; work with, oversee, hire and train staff; fill out charts and maintain records for patients; and market myself and my practice.
In addition, I must attend continuing education courses each year in order to maintain my license and to keep myself informed of new techniques and information.
4. What has been the most challenging aspect of this career for you so far?
The most challenging aspect of my job so far is trying to maintain a high level of quality in my work while maintaining my patients' approval, trust and comfort.
5. What has been the most rewarding aspect of this career for you so far?
The most rewarding part of my job occurs when patients are appreciative of my efforts to provide the best dentistry possible, whether it is a big or small job. It is a rewarding feeling when patients put their trust in me and my work, and refer others to me.
6. What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing this career?
I would advise the person to be prepared to have plenty of energy to be a "people-person". Dentistry is a combination of performing highly competent treatment and incorporating business and marketing skills.
If you can coordinate all these things, dentistry can be a very satisfying career!