Case studies: Dentist: Caroline

Caroline studied for a Bachelor in Dental Surgery (BDS) at Glasgow University.

I decided that I wanted to be a dentist when I was about 13. I had some dental work done and was fascinated by all the tools that were used. I really wanted to know more about them and how they worked, so instead of simply asking I decided to train as a dentist! I was absolutely determined throughout school to get the grades I needed and was delighted to be accepted to study at Glasgow University.

When I started my degree course I found it all fascinating; the more complicated the case, the more interesting I found the work. After two years we started to train in oral surgery - this was something of a surprise as I had assumed we wouldn't be involved in this part of dentistry. It's now a part of my role that I find the most satisfying.

One of the things I've learnt along the way is the importance of treating the patient as a whole and not a 'hole'! It is so important to take the time to speak to the patient, explain all the procedures and to try and reassure them as much as possible, especially when dealing with young children.

My job is very varied and challenging; I really enjoy the intellectual side of diagnosing cases, particularly emergencies, and helping to relieve patients' pain. Oral surgery requires a huge amount of concentration and I find it fascinating - you certainly never watch the clock in my job. Some of the more difficult aspects come from dealing with outside parties, such as having lab work done. I find it hard, for example, when impressions are involved and dentures, crown and bridgework come back incorrectly made and the patients blame the dentist. Also you're required to deal with a lot people at once, including a nurse, receptionist and sometimes parents of the children under treatment.

There's no real 'typical day' for a dentist. I usually spend my time dealing with routine appointments and check ups, carrying out treatment and taking impressions, but when an emergency case arrives, everything can change so quickly. I enjoy the regularity of my hours, particularly as I have a family; I know when I'll be working and when I'll be getting home. I have to work the occasional weekend as part of the local system to provide access to a dentist for everyone in the community, but this is only about twice a year - much better than my last job, when it could have been as much as once a month.

If I were to give any tips to students considering dentistry, I'd advise them to find out as much about the job as possible. Work experience is very difficult to find as all staff now have to be regulated, but it can be helpful to speak to dentists and spend some time observing at a dental practice.