We are often asked about what is involved in becoming a dentist.

What subjects do I need to study to become a dentist?

There is no point in beating about the bush, it takes alot of hard work and dedication to become a good dentist but there is nothing quite like helping to make a positive difference to people's lives. There are only a relatively small number of universities in the UK that have dental schools so competition for places is fierce for the 5 year undergraduate courses.

Is work experience important?

A good academic background is therefore important and high grades are expected in sciences, maths and English. Budding dentists are also expected to give evidence to support a keen interest in the field and this is where work experience comes in.

What career routes are there for dentists?

Once qualified, there are a number of career routes;  some stay within the hospital environment and go on to post graduate study to become specialist registrar or consultant whilst others work in salaried services such as a community post working mainly with special needs and vulnerable groups. The majority, however, work within a practice with NHS or private patients, or like myself and the team in Kilbarchan, a mix of the two. Within the practice environment it is common for dentists to continue to build their areas of specialism and I myself have undertaken post-graduate courses in sedation and dealing with nervous patients. Dentistry is constantly evolving as new and improved equipment and materials come to the fore so a modern dentist will have a continuous stream of training and learning to keep up to speed with new developments and deliver the best possible service.

Dentistry is a hugely rewarding career offering the opportunity to work directly with people, benefit communities and offers real variety on a day-to-day basis.

Do you live in a nearby Renfrewshire village like Bridge of Weir, Kilmacolm, Houston, Howwood or Lochwinnoch or a town such as Johnstone, Linwood or Paisley?

Personally I wouldn't want to do anything else and love what I do which is why here at Kilbarchan Dental Practice we hope to help inspire the next generation of dentists by offering work experience opportunities. Each year we hope to provide some 4th and 5th year students with work experience placements, however, as demand is always high we do give priority to those who are either patients themselves or whose family are patients.

Do you want more advice about becoming a dentist?

If you have any questions about this please do not hesitate to give us a ring on 01505 704969 or email us at info@kilbarchandental.co.uk