I started my career working in a dental hospital, then moved into NHS general practice for seven years, and eventually spent thirteen years in private dentistry. After all that, I took a two-year career break and it was when I came back to do unscheduled dental care that I really found my niche.

Unscheduled dental care is very different from general practice or private practice. At Smile Together, we provide urgent and emergency care for all patients, irrespective of background, who may or may not have their own dentist – we treat vulnerable patients who really need oral health care, advice and guidance. Many of our patients have not seen a dentist for years or decades and are anxious, often in severe pain, and have reached the point where they can’t wait any longer for help. Our priority is to get the patient out of pain, but it’s not unusual that we signpost patients and arrange ongoing care in primary or secondary care.

After years in private practice seeing the same patients regularly, I found I really enjoyed the variety and problem-solving that unscheduled dental care brings. From the moment I greet a patient in the waiting room, I’m assessing, diagnosing, and formulating treatment plans. You have to make decisions quickly and act with confidence, all while putting someone at ease.

There’s a common perception that unscheduled dental care is all about temporary fixes or handing out antibiotics. That’s not the case at all. It’s about providing definitive treatment whenever possible. The focus is always on doing what’s right for the patient.

Unscheduled dental care really sharpens your skills. You’re working in a fast-paced, supportive environment where you rely on your clinical judgement and radiographic assessment to support the patient in decision making. It’s demanding, but incredibly satisfying.

One of the best things about working at Smile Together is the support for professional growth. I had already completed a restorative dental diploma while in private practice, and after joining Smile Together, I suggested doing an oral surgery diploma. Smile Together supported me through this and this qualification has enabled me to run an oral surgery list one day a week alongside my urgent care work. I really value the freedom and support that Smile Together have given me to carve out a new career here.

I actually started out doing just a couple of out-of-hours evening shifts, and it’s grown from there into a salaried role with great stability – no stress over holidays or admin – and there’s always the option to earn a little more through the out-of-hours service. There are also self-employed opportunities available for those looking for more flexibility, with roles that are both adaptable and purpose-led.

If someone is considering a role like this, I’d absolutely encourage them to go for it. I love unscheduled dental care. I know what the job involves – it’s hard work, but it’s so rewarding.