pearly whites


Above: Students getting to grips with modern dentistry techniques.


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Have you ever wondered how dental students practise before they’re ‘let loose’ on the general public? This is one of the many questions that go through the minds of people of a slightly nervous disposition when it comes to trips to the dentist.


IF YOU’RE ONE OF the aforementioned people, you’ll be pleased to know that modern day teaching techniques give students an extremely lifelike platform on which to learn their craft. Dr David Dymock, Senior Lecturer in


Oral Microbiology at the University’s School of Oral and Dental Sciences: “Students gain excellent hands-on simulation training in our clinical skills lab, including patient simulators used in year one physiology teaching, and use of ‘phantom heads’ with teeth, set up so students can practise techniques in restorative dentistry skills. Additionally, they learn communication skills through contact with trained actors, so they are prepared for various scenarios and interaction with patients.” Tis rehearsal in ‘bedside manner’ will


be particularly useful with the University’s use in the near future of a 20 dental chair clinic at the almost completed South Bristol Community Hospital. Te new hospital is part of a massive investment in this part of


the city, which also includes a new skills academy and leisure complex. “Students will treat patients coming


in off the street,” says Dr Louise Nash, Clinical Lead – Community Based Teaching. “We anticipate there will be a large need and demand for free dental treatment from patients with a lot of tooth rot. South Bristol will also allow for greater opportunities for teamwork between dental students and oral hygienists and therapists. “Working in challenging environments


enables students to develop communication skills with people from all social and educational backgrounds. Tis helps students realise that priorities in health care and well-being differ in different communities. Learning about health issues such as diet, smoking and alcohol consumption also gives students the chance to inform and possibly change behaviour.”


MORE INFO www.bristol.ac.uk/cetl/aims/hps/movies/


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PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT Students spend two terms, one at the end of year two followed by a second term at the beginning of year three, acquiring basic restorative dentistry skills in a superbly equipped laboratory, including use of ‘phantom (model) heads’ with appropriate technical support. Students revisit this facility in the second term of year four for another course on advanced restorative dentistry skills.


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Photos: Nick Smith Photography, Thinkstock, iStock


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