What led to you becoming a paediatric dentist?
When I first started out as a fresh-faced dentistry undergrad, I enjoyed the hands-on, creative and technical aspects of the profession.
As I worked more in the ‘real world’, I became increasingly fascinated by the stories of my patients – not just their teeth.
As a general dentist I found it fulfilling treating my child patients and was surprised by their bravado and candidness in such a vulnerable environment. My interactions with them often travelled home with me at the end of each day. I would draw on their resilience, trying to emulate their spirit.
After working as a general dentist in private practice for 9 years, and after a number of international volunteer trips treating children, I decided it was time to take the plunge; I attained my specialist training, and I haven’t looked back since!
Ultimately, I enjoy being an integral part of the child’s healthcare ‘family’ and hopefully making a positive difference to their future dental experiences. There are so many interesting aspects to being a Paediatric Dentist that extend well beyond caries management. It’s the variety that keeps me engaged and on my toes!
Where do you work currently?
I currently work four days per week at an incredible private paediatric dental practice in Norwest, Greater Western Sydney. Although my intense study-filled days are well and truly in the rear-view mirror of life, I am still getting used to the paperwork and administrative aspects of specialist practice!
Where do you see your future in paediatric dentistry?
My partner and I recently moved to the picturesque lower Blue Mountains. I would love to work towards developing the reach of public specialist paediatric dental care in this region, as there is a great need for it.
What aspects of paediatric dentistry do you prefer?
My patients! I love meeting and connecting with each of them. They teach me patience (a difficult task for an Arien!), remind me to stay in the moment, and the importance of having a laugh. I also enjoy the challenges that come with managing patients with special needs that can at times be medically complex.
What do you like doing outside of paediatric dentistry?
A few years back I taught myself how to make jewellery (the skills and tools involved are surprisingly similar to dentistry!), although I am yet to unpack my jewellery bench at my new house. Hopefully this will happen soon.
An ideal weekend for me involves exploring the outdoors on a long bush walk, then coming home and cooking a feast for family and friends.
In an alternate universe, if you weren’t a paediatric dentist what would you liked to have pursued?
Psychology has always fascinated me.
Want to get in touch?
Reach out to Jana at jana.nikolovski@gmail.com.
