Cindy Zhang is a second-year dental student at King’s College London. She describes her experience of applying for and being awarded the British Endodontic Society (BES) Harty Essay Prize.
“I first came across the Harty Essay Prize in November 2025. The topic was vital pulp therapy, which I knew very little about at the time. After reading several case reports on pulpotomy I became interested in the subject and decided to apply. I found it challenging to read and comprehend academic literature on an unfamiliar topic, so I approached the research gradually by reading a little each day. Once I had gathered a broad range of sources, I began drafting the essay. I particularly enjoyed learning about bioactive materials and the histopathology of pulpitis, which were areas I had not explored before.
“My essay explored the biological rationale behind vital pulp therapy and evaluated the preoperative prognostic factors that influence treatment outcomes. The question included a radiograph, which allowed me to bridge the discussion to a clinical scenario. I developed a staged protocol for managing a deep carious lesion, supported by evidence-based guidelines and clinical trial data. This was the most rewarding aspect of the essay, as it allowed me to compare different approaches while justifying each step of management through integration of histology, material chemistry, and clinical decision-making.
“I felt extremely honoured to receive the Harty Essay Prize, and grateful that the work I put into the essay was acknowledged. The award includes £1,000 and the opportunity to attend the annual British Endodontic Society Regional Meeting with expenses covered – an event I am very much looking forward to. Personally, the experience encouraged me to read more widely in my free time and strengthened my confidence in approaching research papers.”
Cindy goes on to explore the benefits of applying for her peers, and offer advice to others who are considering entering for the Harty Essay Prize in the future.
“I would strongly encourage others to apply because the process itself is highly rewarding. Seeing the essay develop and come together over time through reading, drafting, and editing is a very fulfilling experience. It is also an opportunity to explore important topics beyond the taught curriculum and engage with recent advances in dentistry.
“My advice to others who are thinking of applying would be to make full use of the resources available through your university, including academic journals, databases, and textbooks. If you find reading a bit overwhelming, like I did, start small and build your understanding gradually by researching consistently each day.”
For more information about the BES, or to join, please visit the website www.britishendodonticsociety.org.uk or call 07762945847
