Why did you choose this area of dentistry?
During my undergraduate studies, I worked as a dental assistant in a referral practice for paediatric dentistry referral practice, experiencing the challenges and joys of treating young patients. After earning my master’s degree at ACTA in 2019, I began working as a dentist in both this referral practice and a general practice. Treating both adults and children, I found joy in positively influencing on oral health from a very young age. However, I sought more knowledge about child growth, development, and early interventions for conditions like Amelogenesis Imperfecta, Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization, and Hypodontia.
Why did you choose the Master’s in Oral Health Sciences (OHS)?
OHS offers the possibility to develop yourself in a specific dental domain to be able to deliver specialised dental care. Besides, you’ll be doing research, become more skilled in reading and interpreting scientific articles and prepare lots of presentations. You’ll grow as dentist, but also as a person.
What did you find most meaningful about the master’s programme?
The best part of the OHS is the collaboration with other specialized dentists in training. Together Everyone Achieves More; TEAM-work results in the best treatment plans and approaches for complex dental problems. In multiple case discussions during the OHS Master, we have seen the strengths of other specialized dentists. After graduation, I’m sure we’ll be in touch to continue delivering TEAM-work dental care for our patients.
What did you find most challenging?
For me, the most challenging part of this demanding study was to balance my private life with a lot of hours reading articles, preparing patient discussions and learn from colleagues. Making choices can be difficult, but in the end, I appreciate all the study-time to be the paediatric dentist I am today.
What was the highlight of your time at ACTA?
The highlight of my time at ACTA were the dinners and drinks with my fellow students after a long day at ACTA. I also liked going to (inter)national congresses and spent time with colleagues working in paediatric dentistry. It is nice to know the person behind the author of the articles you just red.
What advice would you give to our master’s students?
Be open-minded for all the experiences the OHS has to offer (different colleagues, dental practices, treatment approaches, opinions) to create your own style. And don’t forget to be gentle to yourself and allow yourself to relax!
