After dental school, you worked as a practitioner in University of Malaysia as a newly graduate, Can you tell me a little more about that experience?
In my experience, most of the dental cases that you get from the 3rd to the 5th year are often the same although now as a practitioner, the complexity of the case increases. I learnt to not be afraid when referring to a specialist and have someone that you can trust to call in those tough cases.
What is your advice to newly graduates on handling a tough case?
Dont be afraid and panic. However, the basics need to be at your fingertips- things like how to manage the bleeding in patients or how to manage people with low glucose.
Particularly in the UK, NHS appointments are quite short, as a newly graduate, how would you meet these time limits?
You need to be honest with your supervisor if this is your first case and you need to know which instruments are needed for which case. Prepare the materials and bare in mind the setting time.
Feel free to put your notes next your cubicle-its like a recipe, you need to practice and then it will just become second nature. Remember, that patients can smell anxiety so just listen carefully and make sure you ask what is needed.
It is also important to know other people's opinion- reflect on how would they have managed the patient.
Why did you become a lecturer?
After I finished my BDS, I had a partner at that time who was working in private clinic so I had the first-hand experience of what it was like to work in a private clinic- most of the people were very happy although they seemed to be getting bored with the monotous nature of the job.
"I was inspired by our very own Dr Andrew Mason" Working as a lecturer allowed me to pursue my studying as a specialist as well as gain more knowledge and try new things.
Did you consider opening a private clinic?
I did but soon I realised that I wanted something more. It wasnt just about the money- it was a good feeling to be able to mix with students, other senior lecturers and different types of patients in a university setting.
With a private clinic- it was often quite alienating, my struggles were my own.
What would you have to look out for when managing a private clinic?
You need to be disciplined- you need to come in earlier and need to make sure everything is perfect. You are taking full responsibility.
Its important to network with the dental equipments supplier if you wanted to get standardised and sufficient equipmentcheaper.
You need to constantly update your knowledge- its good to be aware of equipments that can reduce dentist chair time.