Emily Makinson shares her thoughts on the industry so far and what makes being a dental hygienist such a rewarding profession.
My name is Emily Makinson, I’m 24 years old and I work as a trainee dental technician in St Agnes, Cornwall. Originally from Lancashire, I moved to Cornwall two years ago, unsure of what career I wanted to pursue.
I had worked in labs both in previous jobs and at university and it’s an environment I really enjoyed. Then I came across dental technology that I had heard about for a while but never ventured into.
Ever since I had braces when I was younger, I have been fascinated by orthodontics and teeth in general, making sure to wear my retainer every night. However, years later I never thought I would be making the same Essix retainers for patients across the UK.
Loving every second
It has been two years since I started this profession and I have loved every second of it. I started my apprenticeship at Yeovil College in 2022 and am now in my second year of five. The biggest struggle is driving from Yeovil to Cornwall in one day, but I know it’s worth it. I am in my element as I learn new theories and techniques.
At work, I started in the model room casting models for crowns, bridges, and prostheses, while also helping to make crown wax, specialty trays, and splints.
After a year I switched to CAD/CAM and designed crowns/veneers/bridges/implants, printed 3D models and milled crown and bridge work. Until recently, I had focused on prosthetics. This is an area I thrive in and I am also comfortable with zirconia staining and glazing and emax crowns.
Every day is different. I generally help in all departments which is always interesting with each case being unique.
Rewarding and exciting
This profession is so fascinating and I feel like not many people know about it. There are so many different areas you can specialize in which makes it so much fun as you can work with a range of materials, software and machines. Also, seeing patients satisfied with your work makes it so rewarding.
The digital side is expanding and there is so much to learn. Working in CAD/CAM opened that door for me and studying the digital dental technology course will further educate me. This is so exciting for my future and the patients we work with.
Communication is critical
Communication between dentist and technician is an area that needs to be improved in this industry. Simple questions to the dentist over the phone or a detailed prescription are vital to keep both dentist and patient happy. It ensures that the custom medical device is perfect for the patient the first time and prevents unnecessary additional appointments.
As a student, I feel that all of my professors are so supportive and it’s clear that they want you to excel. Every technician I worked with was so helpful and quick to train you and ensure you learn to the best standards. Teachers and colleagues always make sure I ask “why?” in everything I produce to make sure I fully understand the rationale behind what I’m doing. This makes me love my job even more as I learn every day.
Digital future
The future of dental technology, in my eyes, is CAD/CAM. After visiting Brynes Dental Laboratory, I learned that acrylic dentures will be a thing of the past. I hope it doesn’t do away with the art of making dentures by hand with the classic Bunsen burner, however I believe digital will be the way forward. Since I started in this profession, I have seen the number of display cases decrease and digital cases increase.
The number of courses accessible is amazing and they can all expand your knowledge and improve your skills. I also love that everyone in the industry encourages you to always progress.
As I continue my apprenticeship I look forward to learning more about the software and crown and bridge. After registration and registration, I would love to attend a clinical dental technology course and expand my knowledge and communication with patients.
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