Discovering Careers in Dentistry

Last Thursday, pupils gained a valuable insight into the wide range of careers in Dentistry through a Careers Seminar led by Anna Hunt, an NHS Consultant in Dental Public Health. Anna introduced the various roles within the profession, including Dental Nurses, Hygienists, Therapists, Technicians, and Dentists, and explained the training routes and qualifications required for each.

Anna outlined the entry requirements for dental hygiene and therapy, with Universities such as Birmingham asking for six GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English, Mathematics, and a biological science, alongside three A levels. She also emphasised the personal qualities that are essential in dentistry, including strong communication skills, empathy, precision and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

A detailed overview was given of the responsibilities of Dental Hygienists, who focus on preventing gum disease and promoting oral health and Dental Therapists, who are trained to perform a wide range of treatments, including fillings and extractions. Both roles offer rewarding career progression and good financial prospects, with Dental Therapists in private practice able to earn up to £50,000 annually. She also highlighted the vital role of Dental Nurses in managing the practice environment, supporting Dentists and often progressing into other Healthcare careers.

For those aspiring to become Dentists, Anna explained the rigorous entry requirements for Dental School, including A levels in Chemistry and Biology, while also noting the alternative pathways available for those wishing to reapply. She introduced pupils to the variety of specialist fields within Dentistry, such as Orthodontics, Oral Microbiology and Public Health, demonstrating the breadth of opportunities within the profession.

The Seminar concluded with Anna encouraging pupils to consider the teamwork, technical skills and passion required to succeed in dentistry, as well as work experience opportunities, sharing her own experiences of both the challenges and the many rewards the profession offers. Our grateful thanks to Anna for providing the pupils with such a valuable insight into the range of careers in Dentistry.