Dental hygienists and therapists provide an invaluable service, offering preventative care and education, treating oral diseases and delivering restorative treatments so that oral health is kept to the best possible standard.
There are challenges, however. From physical strain as a result of sitting in awkward positions for long periods of time, to navigating employment arrangements and difficult patients. Linzy Baker, a dental therapist based at the One to One Dental Clinic on Harley Street, is well-versed on the daily challenges and hopes that her role as a Board Member for The Female Dentist can alleviate the concerns that many may have with the profession.
“I joined The Female Dentist Board to represent dental hygienists and therapists as, after hearing about the vision and initiative, I knew this would be something of interest to my colleagues. I wanted to ensure our voices were heard and I believe that I can provide insights to both the board and members who may be seeking help. This could be for ideas around incorporating dental therapist workflows into their practices, how to connect more like-minded team members with employers and practices, or how best to utilise their team. These are topics I am often discussing with my dental colleagues already.
“I also want to help the next cohort of dental therapists and hygienists connect more; conversations have illuminated how many are isolated in their four walls, working without support and struggling to stay motivated, with some even thinking of leaving the career. To give nationwide opportunities – not just to one location – for colleagues to connect and broaden their circles, finding like-minded individuals and life-long friends would be a great achievement and something I can envision The Female Dentist achieving.
“The network provides an inclusive hub for women in dentistry to speak freely, ask their questions (even the ones that we think we ’shouldn’t’ ask) and to be their best selves. It is a safe community where we aim to not only educate and inspire, but to have some fun. Too often I hear the stories of isolation within practices or as female bosses; those who are wanting to achieve more but feel unable to do so, women who were thriving in their career but since having children and being away from work aren’t sure how to spin all the plates. The board is full of struggles and success stories and I am greatly inspired by those I sit with and know that they will bring the best advice to the members.
“I am very excited to see The Female Dentist grow as a brand and a cohort expanding its reach to the whole of the UK and bring women in dentistry to the forefront of their careers, encouraging success and building resilience and knowledge for these women to thrive in all aspects of their lives.”
Join The Female Dentist today.
For details on membership visit https://thefemaledentist.co.uk/membership-benefits/
