I have started to develop a good rapport with patients and I enjoy seeing them more regularly

What made you want to work in healthcare, and what drew you to the dental therapist role?

“I wanted a career where I could work directly with people and make a positive difference to their health and confidence.

“Dental hygiene and dental therapy appealed to me because the role is so rewarding. I like the prevention aspect of it. It allows you to educate patients about their oral health, manage periodontal disease and also carry out restorative treatments within your scope of practice. I wanted to experience both sides of dental hygiene and therapy and develop as many clinical skills as possible with various treatments.”

Why did you decide to train at the University of Sheffield?

“The University of Sheffield stood out to me because of its reputation and the way the Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy programme combines academic learning with practical and clinical experience. I also like how you are hands-on very early into the course. Some of our studies are also integrated with BDS Dental Surgery which gives us the opportunity to make more friends.

“I was also drawn to Sheffield itself. It is a very student friendly city, and it is not far from the Peak District.” 

What have you enjoyed most about studying at Sheffield?

“One of the things I’ve enjoyed most is seeing my confidence and practical skills develop over the course. At the beginning, I was very nervous but with practice I’ve gotten into more of a routine. I’ve also enjoyed meeting people on my course and getting involved in university life.

“Moving to Sheffield has given me more independence, and being around other students who are going through the same experiences makes the course more enjoyable. Although the course can be challenging, it is rewarding when you can see how much you have progressed.”

What sort of patient interactions have you experienced so far? How do you feel they're preparing you for a career in dentistry?

“I have started to develop a good rapport with patients and I enjoy seeing them more regularly. 

Communication is a huge part of providing good patient care. Every patient is different, so you have to learn how to adapt the way you communicate and make them feel comfortable.

Iram Mehboob

Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy

“So far in the course, I’ve had experience discussing oral health and providing preventive advice, as well as developing my clinical skills. These interactions are helping me become more confident when speaking to patients and teaching me the importance of listening, gaining consent, explaining things clearly and treating each patient as an individual.” 

What parts of the course are you most looking forward to?

“I am particularly looking forward to doing some therapy and working alongside paediatric patients. I am excited to carry out a wider range of treatments and put everything I’ve learned into practice with patients.

“I’m also looking forward to the oral health promotion project because prevention is such an important part of the hygienist and therapist role. Also, outreach, which is where we go and work in a dental practice in the local area. There are so many things to look forward to!” 

What advice would you give to someone considering studying this course at university?

“I would say try not to worry if you aren't confident with everything straight away. There is a lot to learn, and your skills develop through practice and experience during your time at university.

“Be open to feedback, ask questions and make the most of every opportunity you get with patients.

“It can be challenging, but seeing yourself improve and knowing that you're working towards a career where you can genuinely make a difference to patients makes it really rewarding.”