UQ dental clinic offers additional patient openings for early 2010

Final-year University of Queensland student Amy Winner sees a career in dentistry as the perfect opportunity to combine her passions for science and art.

“Taking something and transforming it – giving someone a smile and helping them feel good – is a real privilege,” Ms Winner said.

Ms Winner is one of approximately 60 final-year dental students who will be carrying out dental treatment when the UQ School of Dentistry Clinics at 200 Turbot Street offer additional patient appointments for a five-week period in early 2010.

UQ dental students undertake more than 50,000 patient appointments in a year, ensuring they are practice-ready upon completion of their five-year degree.

With more than 100 dental chairs offering quality dental services to the public at affordable rates, the UQ School Of Dentistry is Queensland’s largest oral healthcare facility.

Students work under the supervision of registered dentists and specialists who have academic appointment with the University.

As a teenager, Ms Winner visited the UQ Dental Clinics for regular orthodontic work, an experience which helped cement her decision to study dentistry.

“It’s rewarding when a person appreciates a better quality of life because they can smile again,” she said.

“I would encourage anyone who has thought about attending the clinics to do so.

“I’ve been on the other side as a patient and the students are competent with experienced demonstrators to supervise and ensure the highest standard of care.

“With the reduced rates, someone may even consider visiting the clinics for a consultation to learn about their options.”

After four years of study, the final year of the Bachelor of Dental Science consists mainly of working in the community.

For Ms Winner, the opportunity to work at the Beenleigh Primary School Dental Clinic and the Royal Brisbane Hospital has led her to consider specialising in children’s dentistry or orthodontics.

“For fourth year dental students, we are in the clinic every day of the week. We rotate between different clinics six hours per day with lectures in the afternoon,” Ms Winner said.

“You already feel like you are out in the work place and are well prepared for the role as a dentist.”

UQ final-year dentistry students will be offering their quality affordable dental services at 200 Turbot Street, Brisbane, for a five-week period from January 19 – February 19.

To secure your appointment call 07 3365 8165 or visit www.uq.edu.au/dentistry.

Media: Nina White at the School of Dentistry (07 3365 8182, dent_marketing@uq.edu.au)