From Indian Dental Clinics to UK Practices: Dr. Mrinal’s Journey

CAREER SNAPSHOT:

Education:

• Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), MCODS, Mangalore (2020)
• UK dental licensing exams

Reason for switching countries:

• Limited opportunities and pay in dentistry, coupled with the high costs of postgraduate studies, led me to explore new career paths

Factors that helped in deciding the country:

• The UK’s dental licensing system and paid NHS training program offered a clear path to practice while supporting myself

From mastering curry to conquering cavities, Dr. Mrinal proves that a great smile is a universal language – even if her British accent is still a work in progress!

Current Role:

• Associate Dentist

Favorite Part About UK Healthcare:

• Work-life balance

Dislikes about UK healthcare:

• As a newcomer, still learning about the system and haven’t encountered any significant dislikes yet

Connect with Dr. Mrinal on LinkedIn to explore more insights!

Introduction

Adventure is worthwhile. – Aesop

This short quote encapsulates the spirit of Dr. Mrinal’s move to a new country for better opportunities.

Dr. Mrinal’s story is one of courage, ambition, and the pursuit of better opportunities.

After completing her BDS from MCODS, Mangalore in 2020, she knew she wanted more than what was immediately available in India.

“I realized that while many Indian cities offer thriving opportunities for dentists, it wasn’t uniform across the country,” Dr. Mrinal reflects. “I was looking for better pay and didn’t want to go through the competitive exams and fees for postgraduate studies in India.“

This realization led her to look beyond Indian shores, with the United Kingdom emerging as her destination of choice.

Her decision was influenced by her familiarity with the UK’s dental system and the attractive career path it offered.

Work as a General Dentist in the UK: Licensing and Training Opportunities

“In the UK, after clearing the licensing exams, one can register as a general dentist with the General Dental Council and work in private clinical setups,” she explains. “Plus, there’s a paid training program for those wanting to work with the NHS, allowing you to support yourself while learning and working.”

Today, Dr. Mrinal works as an Associate Dentist in the UK, a role she finds both challenging and rewarding.

When asked about her favorite aspect of practicing dentistry in the UK, she doesn’t hesitate: “The work-life balance is incredible.”

Dr. Mrinal: Balancing Dentistry with Hobbies and Staying Connected

Outside of her dental practice, Dr. Mrinal is like many of us – she enjoys scrolling through her phone and staying connected with family and friends back in India.

“They help me survive and keep me going,” she admits with a smile. She’s also developing new hobbies, including painting, listening to music, and reading – a habit instilled by a friend.

Overcoming Challenges in Global Dentistry

Her journey hasn’t been without its challenges. “Choosing to move to another country and leave everything you know behind is difficult,” she advises.

“Whether it’s the USA, UK, Europe, Australia, or anywhere else in the world, gather all the information you can before deciding where to go. Every place has its pros and cons.” She adds.

She acknowledges that the exams and career paths can be long and time-consuming, often leading to moments of breakdown and loss of confidence.

However, she encourages aspiring international dentists to stay positive and work towards their dreams.

As a recent entrant into the UK dental scene, Dr. Mrinal is still exploring all aspects of her new environment.

“Since I just started working, I don’t have any dislikes yet,” she says. “There are many things which I am yet to be exposed to.”

Conclusion

Dr. Mrinal’s story is a testament to the power of pursuing one’s dreams, even when it means stepping out of your comfort zone and into a new country.

Her journey continues to inspire many young dentists looking to expand their horizons beyond their home countries.