By: Assoc Prof Dr Noor Azlin Yahya, Dr Sofya Zulkiffli
Uncle: “Hey, you’re a dentist, aren’t you? So, your main job is pulling teeth, right?”
Me: “Actually, that’s just one part of what I do. Dentistry involves a lot more than just pulling out teeth.”
As dentists ourselves, the conversation about this is not unfamiliar. Sometimes it can be said jokingly, and sometimes it is due to ignorance of the person. Changing the mindset of people is important to prevent the misconception. When we think of dentists, the first image that often comes to mind is someone in a white coat, wielding a pair of forceps ready to extract a troublesome tooth.
This stereotype can unfortunately make dentists seem intimidating or even unpopular. It’s not uncommon for people to joke about avoiding the dentist or hiding their teeth when talking about dental issues. However, the reality of a dentist’s role extends far beyond mere extractions.
Neighbour: “5 years just to learn about teeth? Are you serious?”
Me: “No ma’am, it’s much more than just teeth. We cover a wide range of topics, including the complexities of the head and neck.”
Currently there are thirteen dental schools in Malaysia. The dental program in these schools spans five years. In most of the schools, the curriculum are divided into two years of preclinical training followed by three years of clinical practice. During the preclinical phase, aspiring dentists learn the foundational subjects such as Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Oral Biology, laying the groundwork for their future clinical practice.
However, it is in the Dental Material, Dental Technology, and Operative Dentistry courses where students first encounter the practical aspects of dentistry. Here, they acquire knowledge and experience in operating dental handpieces and receive practical training in fundamental dentistry procedures, including cavity preparation and denture fabrication. This pivotal phase marks the initiation of the dentistry journey for these
aspiring dentists. Yet, this 5-year journey is far from easy, as it presents multiple challenges for dental students.
These hurdles include sourcing patients who meet their requirement, honing soft skills for effective patient communication, overcoming apprehensions regarding invasive procedures, and more. These challenges, however, function as invaluable tools in equipping students with the necessary skills to emerge as proficient dentists.
Be all fingers and thumbs
One crucial aspect emphasized in dental training is manual dexterity, essential for the precision and finesse required in dental procedures. This skill is evaluated in some schools during intake interviews, where candidates demonstrate handiwork or artistic abilities through activities like wire bending or soap carving.
However, mastering manual dexterity can pose unique challenges, particularly for left-handed individuals. Many dental chairs are designed for right-handed users, requiring left-handed students to adapt and wield instruments with their non-dominant hand. A survey in Northeast Brazil found that most left-handed students perceived this challenge as “As a left-handed dentist, I’ve experienced firsthand the difficulty and frustrations of transitioning to using my right hand dominantly. It takes extensive determination and diligent training to perform intricate dental procedures accurately with your non-dominant hand, especially when measurements are as precise as 0.5mm.
Beyond tooth extraction
In the third year, students enter the clinical setting, where they work in pairs and practice four-handed dentistry. They begin by examining each other’s teeth before transitioning to outpatient care. Here, they start with fundamental procedures such as providing oral hygiene education, scaling, performing simple dental fillings, and conducting simple tooth extractions.
Additionally, they develop soft skills in patient communication and behaviour management. Progressing into the fourth and final year, they advance to handling more complicated cases, including root canal treatment and crown and bridge work. Additionally, they gain exposure to treating paediatric patients, special care dentistry, basic orthodontic procedures, and minor oral surgery cases.
Furthermore, they study subjects such as oral medicine, oral pathology, dental radiology, and community dentistry. There are opportunities for community service, participation in mobility programs, and engaging as exchange students at international levels. They are also exposed to conducting research projects in the fourth and fifth years, presenting their work at the dental student scientific conferences, at university and national levels. Upon completing the rigorous five-year program, graduates earn the esteemed title of Dr. This accomplishment not only signifies the culmination of their dedication and hard work but also marks the beginning of a diverse and dynamic career journey.
Lifelong learning
American Dental Association in 2020, listed the role of dentists as oral health educators, diagnostic experts, and preventive care advocates. They are skilled in a wide range of procedures, including restorative dentistry, endodontics, periodontics, and prosthodontics, among others. Moreover, dentists play a crucial role in promoting overall health and well-being, as oral health is intricately linked to systemic health.
In addition to clinical practice, World Health Organization (2021) mentioned that dentists may also pursue avenues such as research, academia, public health, or specialized fields like orthodontics or oral surgery. Their impact extends beyond the confines of dental clinics, reaching communities through outreach programs, education initiatives, and advocacy efforts.
In conclusion, the journey to becoming a dentist in Malaysia is not merely about extracting teeth. It is a comprehensive educational experience that equips individuals with the knowledge, skills, and compassion needed to serve their patients and communities effectively. Dentists are not just tooth extractors; they are oral health champions, dedicated to improving smiles and enhancing lives.
The The authors are Restorative Specialists at Department of Restorative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya
