From Dental Therapy to Dentistry: My Journey with Rodericks Dental Partners

Hi, I’m Kelvin. My route into dentistry has been quite a journey, but I’ve found a rewarding and supportive environment at Rodericks Dental Partners. Let me take you through my experiences and how this journey has shaped my career. 

My journey to Dentistry 

I started my career in dental therapy and hygiene. I trained at Plymouth Peninsula, finishing in 2017, and halfway through, I realized that I wanted to take on more complex aspects of patient care myself. Instead of just performing periodontal treatments and simple fillings, I decided I wanted to stay with patients through their entire treatment journey, including crowns and bridges. This led me to pursue a career in dentistry.  

In 2018, I moved to Aberdeen to study dentistry, a decision that took me quite far from home. My studies were extended by six months due to COVID-19, and I graduated in 2021. Afterward, I started my foundation year in Liverpool, where Jon Everard, our clinical advisor at Rodericks Dental Partners, guided me through an incredible first year in dentistry.  

Transition to South London and the FD Plus One Program 

Currently, I’m working in a mixed practice in southwest London, Worcester Park Dental Partners, and I am part of the FD+1 Programme. The programme has been a game-changer in my career. It’s essentially a bridge between the foundation year and fully independent practice, providing an extra layer of support and development for young dentists like myself. What I love about it is that while I’m working as a normal, self-employed dentist, I have access to a wealth of resources and support that’s entirely optional, yet incredibly valuable. 

One of the highlights of the programme is the training days. These are hands-on sessions where we get to delve into specific areas of dentistry, like root canal training, composite work and even oral surgery. The best part? It’s all free. There’s no catch, which is something a lot of my friends found surprising. You can pick and choose which sessions to attend based on your interests and needs, and it’s a great way to build your skills without any financial burden. 

For example, I’ve had the opportunity to attend a hands-on oral surgery study day, which was conveniently held in my hometown of Milton Keynes. The session was beneficial, we got a lot of personalised attention and really in-depth training. I’ve also attended composite training days, where we learned how to perfect the aesthetics of fillings, and even some photography sessions to improve the quality of the images we take of our work. These experiences have been invaluable, allowing me to refine my skills and offer better care to my patients. 

Another aspect of the FD+1 programme that I’ve found incredibly helpful is the networking. At the start of the programme, we all got together at a hotel—first in Birmingham and then in Northampton for me, since I graduated at an odd time and ended up straddling two cohorts. These gatherings were fantastic for meeting other young dentists, catching up with familiar faces and making new connections. Dentistry can be a lonely profession at times, especially when you’re in a room with just your nurse for most of the day, so having this network has been a real lifeline. 

The programme also fosters a great support network through group chats, especially when it comes to things like Invisalign. There’s a lot of back-and-forth, sharing of tips and tricks and it’s reassuring to know that you’re not alone. After your foundation year, you’re suddenly out in the "big bad world," as I like to say, dealing with UDAs, private targets and the everyday challenges of running a practice. But with the FD+1 programme, it’s not as if your hand is held, but the support is there when you need it. 

Building a Support Network 

One of the standout aspects of working with Rodericks Dental Partners has been the extensive support network. The connections I’ve made with peers, mentors and practice teams have been incredibly beneficial. From initial networking events in Birmingham and Northampton to ongoing support from mentors like Connie Woodall, the opportunity to connect with others in the field has been invaluable. 

It’s reassuring to know that, even after leaving my foundation year, I have access to guidance and support from people like Mo, the Chief Clinical Officer, and my former trainer, Jon Everard. The environment fosters continuous learning and professional growth, which is crucial as a young dentist navigating the early stages of my career. 

Support from Practice Teams 

The support doesn’t end with external mentors; it extends to the practice teams as well. At my current practice in Worcester Park, I’ve felt supported by my practice manager and colleagues. Even with challenges like staffing changes, there’s always someone ready to step in. The practice manager has been fantastic in providing guidance and answering any queries about targets and daily operations. 

Continued Personal Development 

The hands-on study days have been a highlight of my professional development. I’ve attended sessions on oral surgery and composite techniques, which have been both practical and insightful. Additionally, I’m pursuing a postgraduate diploma in aesthetic and restorative dentistry, supported by Rodericks Dental Partners. This support includes financial assistance for CPD opportunities, like sedation training, which helps mitigate the costs associated with professional development. 

Looking Ahead 

As for the future, I’m taking things step-by-step. I’m particularly interested in oral surgery and restorative dentistry, blending my previous experiences with my current practice. My goal is to build a strong foundation in these areas while exploring how they intersect with my interests in working with children and complex cases. I know when I am ready, Rodericks Dental Partners will be there to support my ambitions.  

Final Thoughts 

If you’re considering joining Rodericks Dental Partners or embarking on a similar path, I can’t recommend it enough. The support system, both from mentors and practice teams, has been integral to my growth and satisfaction as a dentist. The opportunities for learning and development, combined with a collaborative environment, make it an excellent choice for anyone starting or advancing their dental career. 

Overall, my experience with Rodericks Dental Partners has been incredibly positive. I’m excited about the future and the continued support I’ll receive. If you’re thinking about applying or just exploring options, know that Rodericks Dental Partners offers a nurturing environment where you can thrive as a dental professional.