Dr Manrina Rhode, Dentist of the Year 2022, shares her insights on navigating awards season
Applications are now open for The Probe Dental Awards, with submissions closing towards the end of February. Manrina recommends using the start of the year to identify relevant categories and prepare compelling applications. Enter at http://the-probe.co.uk/awards
Getting Started
The Dental Awards applications are now open, with submissions closing towards the end of February. Manrina recommends using the start of the year to identify relevant categories and prepare compelling applications.
“There’s a really broad range of categories, from Practice of the Year to Practice Manager, Dental Nurse, Dental Therapist, Dentist of the Year, and Young Dentist of the Year,” she explains. Dentist of the Year is for practitioners over 35, whilst Young Dentist of the Year recognises those under 35.
Making the Effort Count
Manrina is emphatic about application quality: “If you’re not going to make the effort to write a beautiful award application, don’t bother applying, because someone else will, and they will win over you.”
Her advice includes creating visually engaging presentations using tools like Canva, incorporating branded colours and imagery, and carefully addressing all criteria to make judges’ scoring straightforward. “You want to create a beautiful PDF, not just a Word document,” she stresses.
The Benefits of Winning
Beyond personal satisfaction, awards offer tangible professional benefits. Manrina, who won Dentist of the Year in 2022, notes that her trophy remains prominently displayed in her surgery as powerful social proof.
“Patients will say, ‘She must be quite good—she’s won all these awards,'” she observes. “It gives them proof, like Google reviews or before-and-afters might.” The entire DRMR team comprises award-winning clinicians, which elevates the practice’s reputation.
Reduced Stress
The Probe Awards’ online format offers a less stressful experience than traditional ceremonies. Winners watch from their surgeries with their teams, then celebrate at an exclusive winners’ lunch afterwards, anxiety-free.
Support Available
Within Manrina’s Mentorship, Manrina dedicates the first Open Mic session of 2026 (held fortnightly on Wednesday evenings) specifically to awards applications, helping mentees identify suitable categories and develop strong submissions.
“Why shouldn’t this be your year?” she asks. “It probably is.”
For support with awards applications, contact Laura at academy@drmr.co.uk to join Manrina’s Mentorship.
