Giving people their smile back

I was given a job opportunity with the Māori Health Unit at Taranaki DHB in 2010 to work as a dental assistant. This sparked my interest in the field of dentistry. I worked alongside a number of dental professionals throughout the Taranaki District. This inspired me to head to Otago university to study a Bachelor of Oral Health (BOH).  Throughout my study I was always interested in continuing my dental studies and after the completion of my BOH degree I went on to sitting HSFY.

In 2016 I began 2nd year dentistry and successfully completed my Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2019.  I have now been practicing as a dentist for the past three years in the Waitara medical centre and at Taylor dental as a general dentist.

From the day I started as a dental cadet in 2010 it has always been super interesting and fascinating for me.  The thing I love the most is giving people their smile back. Teeth are the first thing you notice when you talk or interact with people. It is what gives people confidence and improves their quality of life.  Additionally, patients who present in pain and solving this for them and bringing great relief is another huge part in why I love dentistry.

As Māori we suffer the worst oral health outcomes compared with any other ethnic group. On an individual level the difference I can make is being relatable, building trusting relationships and having a non-judgemental approach to Māori whānau. On a broader level with my social media platforms is educating and empowering Māori to take control of their oral health with the basics. Often Māori do not attend the dentist unless a tooth is causing them grief.

Normalising general dental check-ups and dental hygiene cleans is my main focus as I preventing dental problems is very cost effective and prevents traumatic dental experiences.