What led you to becoming a paediatric dentist?
As a general dentist I was fortunate to work in regional NSW for a number of years. However, our nearest specialist services were about 1.5 hours away, so I was inadvertently exposed to a number of clinical challenges that I may not have seen otherwise.
As I saw more and more children, I realised the rewarding nature of treating them but was often frustrated when I didn’t have the skills or knowledge to help them. This desire to learn more is what prompted me to apply for specialist training.
The profession is so varied, and every day is so different which keeps things very entertaining. I love that there is no textbook formula for treating our patients and that they all come with their own unique stories.
Where do you work now?
I currently work four days a week in private specialist practice at South Eastern Children’s Dentistry in Melbourne.
Where do you see your future in paediatric dentistry?
At this very early stage in my career, I feel like there are so many opportunities available to me and I’m excited to give them all a go. To begin with, I’m going to start my PhD part-time next year and I am looking forward to furthering my research skills together with solidifying my clinical practice.
What aspects of paediatric dentistry do you prefer?
I love that paediatrics has the unique position of including all aspects of clinical dentistry! I particularly enjoy deciphering the clinical problems like management of hypodontia and medically compromised patients.
I joined the AAPD to…
Connect with more of our fabulous colleagues! As a Sydney girl who did her speciality training in Melbourne, I’ve loved having AAPD as a way of connecting with more colleagues in my hometown.
The people I would like to connect with in the AAPD are…
I’m really enjoying getting to know other recent graduates and seeing what they have done in the early stages of their career. There are so many impressive individuals among our colleagues and seeing what they do inspires me to try and do the same!
What is your most memorable or favourite part of practicing Paediatric Dentistry?
Definitely the patients! I love the personalities, the stories, the families and the (hopefully) big smiles at the end of the appointments. In that sense, I think it’s the behaviour management that I enjoy the most and identifying what I can provide each patient to help them accomplish their treatment needs.
What do you like doing outside of Paediatric Dentistry?
Cooking! I’m a terrible baker but I love to cook anything savoury.
In an alternate universe, if you were not a dentist what would you have liked to pursue?
I would have loved to host my own podcast/radio show – if it’s not obvious, I love to talk! I’m already looking forward to chatting to everyone at the next AAPD event!
Want to get in touch?
Reach out to Dharini at dharini.ravindra@gmail.com
