In what is a testing and demanding time for UK dentistry – An Ode to Dentistry has been inspired by Bupa Dental Care colleagues across the UK – from dental receptionists to nurses, dentists, and practice managers. Their personal anecdotes, views, and experiences of working within the sector have all contributed to Harry’s final poem.
From the humorous, to the routine, and the rewarding – An Ode to Dentistry spotlights the people behind the smile, providing a personal glimpse into the lives of passionate and inspiring practice teams.
Touching on the commitment and tenacity across the industry, the poem is a testament to the sector’s strength and determination to make a difference. It reinforces there is plenty to smile about within a career in dentistry and represents the deep pride that exists among colleagues and peers.
Sarah Ramage, Clinical Director at Bupa Dental Care, commented: “An Ode to Dentistry is a cleverly crafted, honest depiction of life within dentistry. It captures the compassion and pride within everyone at Bupa Dental Care. Whether it is providing preventative care, delivering restorative dentistry, eliminating pain or transforming a patient’s smile it is truly a privilege for every member of the dental team to play a part in the patient’s journey. This is the difference our people make for our patients every day, which we wanted to convey in this poem.”
The poem celebrates the collective voice of the dental industry and is a powerful tribute to the expertise and hard work of thousands of dental teams across the UK.
Sam Williams, People Director at Bupa Dental Care, adds: “We’re thrilled to release this creative insight into dentistry. We hope this poem provides an inspiring snapshot into the rewarding side of working within the sector and encourages anyone considering a career in the industry to join us.
“An Ode to Dentistry is a special thanks and celebration of our colleagues and the industry. At Bupa, we are so proud of our talented teams that give our patients the highest level of care every day, giving them reassurance that they are in safe hands when they come to us.”
To find out more about building a rewarding career at Bupa Dental Care, browse our careers site. Or, to search for your next role in dentistry, click here.
An Ode to Dentistry
By Harry Baker
It’s that moment when the patient looks in the mirror post-treatment.
I get to change the way that people see themselves.
It can be fun, and spontaneous, and best of all rewarding.
I get to use my hands to create mini-sculptures.
The problem solving keeps me stimulated.
I get to work with people all day, colleagues as well as patients.
It’s the relief on someone’s face
As you alleviate their pain
And tell them they are able to enjoy eating again.
I started as a trainee dental nurse.
Who knew I’d end up managing a practice?
I love to see others develop around me.
It’s being part of a community
That cares not just for its patients, but its people.
Some will always see you as the pantomime villain
They would rather that you waved a magic wand
than drills and pointy instruments.
It means so much giving someone their confidence back.
A smiling patient nourishes my soul.
Whether they’re 6 or 66, it makes it worth it.
People don’t care how much you know
until they know how much you care.
It’s about empathy as much as technical ability.
We are so much more than just
A technician of teeth.
A doctor of decay.
A gum gardener.
A plaque placater.
I get to put a smile on people’s faces.
New patients become returning friends
Who come to see us as extended family.
It’s been a tough few years.
But we continue to get through it together.
Now the pride we take in smiling faces
goes deeper than ever.
It’s knowing that you’ve made a difference.
It’s the fact every day is different.
It is an honour to be in this position.
Harry has been a full-time poet since he graduated from Bristol with a maths degree in 2015.
He become the youngest ever Poetry World Slam Champion in 2012, and Harry’s first collection of poems The Sunshine Kid was published with Burning Eye in December 2014.
He is currently working on his second collection, as well as regularly giving workshops and touring around the UK as part of poetry double-act Harry And Chris.
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