Outreach was a truly invaluable opportunity to grow as a clinician and prepare me for practice

What made you want to work in healthcare, and was there a reason you decided to train as a dentist specifically?

I’ve always been drawn to roles where I can work closely with people, listen to their concerns, and provide care that has a real impact on their lives. Dentistry stood out to me because of its unique blend of science, practical skill, and patient interaction. Oral health is closely linked to overall health and plays an important role in self-confidence and quality of life. What appeals to me most is the ability to see the direct impact of my work, whether that’s relieving pain, restoring function, or improving oral health over time. Supporting patients through their treatment and seeing those tangible results is what makes the career so fulfilling.

I’m also motivated by the opportunities within dentistry for continued growth and development. It’s a profession that encourages lifelong learning. The ability to further develop skills or specialise means I can shape my career around my strengths and interests while continuing to contribute positively to patients and the wider community.

What drew you to the University of Sheffield’s Dental Surgery programme?

I was particularly drawn to dentistry at the University of Sheffield because of its strong emphasis on early clinical exposure. The opportunity to begin developing practical skills and interact with patients from an early stage was especially appealing, as it helps build confidence in a real-world setting. I also valued the gradual progression with the course – from assisting senior students in the early years to independently managing patients and increasing clinical responsibility, before moving on to outreach placements. This structure felt well-suited to supporting my growth.

What have you enjoyed most about studying at Sheffield?

What I’ve enjoyed most is the strong sense of community. The dental school has a very supportive atmosphere, where students and staff know each other well and are always willing to help. This environment makes a big difference, especially during a demanding course, as it creates a space where you feel encouraged and supported to grow. SUDSS, the dental students’ society, also plays a big role in this, organising social events, academic support and opportunities to connect both across year groups and with staff.

I also really appreciate how convenient student life in Sheffield is. The student areas are in close proximity to the dental school, the Students’ Union and central campus facilities, making day-to-day life much easier. Everything is within walking distance, which naturally brings people together – whether that’s meeting between lectures, studying together or socialising after a long day.

Outside of the course, Sheffield itself has been a highlight. The city has a great mix of green spaces and being so close to the Peak District means there are plenty of opportunities to unwind. It’s a great place to study and live.

How do you feel your clinical experiences are preparing you for a career in dentistry?

My clinical experience at Sheffield has been both varied and rewarding. Early on, I was able to observe and assist more senior students in restorative clinics, which helped me become familiar with the clinical environment, patient communication and the day-to-day workflow of a dental setting. I began treating my own patients from second year onward, carrying out a range of procedures such as restorations, root canal treatments, dentures and crowns. 

I built long term relationships with my patients, much like in general practice, and some of my very first patients I still see today. This has been particularly fulfilling as I’ve been able to follow their progress and contribute to their ongoing care.

Lucy Tweddell

BDS Dental Surgery

In addition to restorative clinics, we gain experience across a wide range of specialities including paediatrics, oral surgery, orthodontics, radiology and maxillofacial surgery. This has helped me develop a broader understanding of dentistry, while improving my confidence in managing different patient groups and clinical scenarios. 

Completing an elective in the Philippines during my fourth year also broadened my perspective on oral health, highlighting how dental care needs and approaches vary globally.  

These experiences have been invaluable in preparing me for a career in dentistry, as they build both competence and confidence in a supportive setting and provide a strong foundation for a career of lifelong learning. 

Tell us more about your outreach placements and how they’ve benefited you as a dental student

Outreach training has been a particularly valuable part of my experience at Sheffield. I completed two outreach placements, one in fourth year and another in fifth year, based in both a local general dental practice and a community clinic. Experiencing these different settings was a significant turning point in my development, as it was during these placements that I really began to feel confident in taking ownership of patient care and making independent clinical decisions.

Working in a general practice environment gave me a realistic insight into day-to-day dentistry. I was able to see more patients and complete more treatments which increased my confidence in communication and clinical decision-making. The community placement also gave me more exposure to a diverse range of patients with more emphasis on adapting my approach to meet different needs. 

Outreach was a truly invaluable opportunity to grow as a clinician and prepare me for practice by bridging the gap between dental school and working as a qualified dentist.

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

Take time to research the course and choose a university environment that suits you, both academically and personally. It’s important to find a place where you can see yourself thriving as the right environment makes a big difference throughout a challenging degree.

I’d recommend speaking to current dental students or qualified dentists wherever possible to give you a clearer understanding of what the course and career are really like. Hearing about their experiences can give you a more realistic insight into the profession and allow you to make an informed choice on whether it’s right for you.

Finally, try to gain as much exposure to the profession as possible, whether through work experience or reading around the subject. This will help you feel more confident in your choice and better prepared for the journey ahead.