Dentistry
Mentor: Dr. Abby Wu
Tiffany Cheng & Mandy Fung
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By observing our mentor, Dr. Wu, we learned about different dental treatments, which broadened our horizons. Observing her creating dental impressions was particularly impressive. Creating a precise model of the patient's oral cavity required accuracy, attention to detail and manual dexterity, all exhibited by the dentist. Her quick perception has also allowed her to notice when the patient is anxious during the process. She offered reassuring words to calm the patient, demonstrating her care towards patients while upholding the patients’ well-being to her highest responsibility. This invaluable experience deftly highlighted the importance of patient communication and the skill sets necessary to become a dentist.
In addition, we observed the process of regular orthodontic checkups and the use of expanders in conjunction with braces. Dr. Wu carefully examined each patient's progress, meticulously adjusting the braces and monitoring the gradual repositioning of the teeth and jaw. She also showed us computer simulation videos illustrating how these orthodontic appliances gradually shift the teeth and jaw into proper alignment. It was fascinating to see the step-by-step process unfold and learn about the various types of retainers used to maintain the results after removing the braces. Overall, a fruitful job shadowing experience solidified our ambition to become dentists.
Mentor: Dr Meika Cheong
Crystal Ho
For my shadowing experience, I observed Dr Meika Cheong, a dentist at Cedars Dental Centre, on 16/7/2024. I had the opportunity to observe five patients from different age groups and ethnicities, such as Chinese and Pakistani. During the job shadowing, I learned more about a dentist's daily routine and realised that being a dentist is stressful but meaningful.
While job shadowing, I learned more about specific dental care procedures, such as scaling, tooth extraction, and implanting dentures. I understand that I have to pay attention when performing these steps, as they should be performed accurately without any errors.
Apart from learning more about dental work, I understand that several essential qualities for a dentist are empathy, patience, communication, and problem-solving skills. Therefore, after the job shadowing experience, I can develop a more precise direction for choosing my career path, and this experience has been invaluable to me.
