Dr. Bee’s Advice Column

Hello! I’m Bee, not a doctor yet, but according to my parents I can treat my extended cousins 809 km across the sea next summer! Big kid stuff, I know.

I know what you’re thinking. What could a sidebar column possible tell you that you don’t already know? I know nothing about you, what help could I offer? 

Hear me out. There are about 703,947 registered dentists worldwide. In 2019, 25,381 have joined dental programs, and that number rises every year. In just a few years, we dentists could fill up the city of Abu Dhabi (a nightmare really, think of all the plastic glove litter we’d leave behind).

 If you’re a dental student just entering the playfield you’re already overwhelmed by the competition. If you’re a non-dental person, you’re probably overwhelmed by options. 

My point is that we’re in this together, us dentists and our dear patients.

I’ve come to realize, you, our friends in the general public are easily phased by the dental clinic and the myriad of procedures carried in them. From time to time I get questions like:

Are veneers a good option? Why do I always spit out blood after brushing? Why does my breath smell bad despite my using of mouthwash? I’m scared of dentists, what are my options? Etc. 

These are all valid questions. And my job here is to offer you some answers! In fact, some questions may even be beyond my area of expertise, but that’s what our team of specialist behind the trenches are for! Ask away, we are here to help and even learn. 

 Dentists and dental students all over the world share common issues before and after graduation. We all suffered in dental school because you’re bound to lose your high school straight A record at least once in 6 years. We’ve had to beg for teeth and even contemplated digging through the black market for them sweet carious pearls and had to ask our moms to pray a little extra for us that one morning before our crown preparation competency exam. I’m not dental expert, but I’ve experienced so many obstacles throughout my journey through the titanic ride that is dental school. I can offer my own opinion and share my experiences with overcoming exam fear, social stagnation as a result of unlimited hours of slide scrolling, and finding the silver lining in the hectic years of clinics and lectures. So if you’re a thriving dental student looking for guidance or tips, you know exactly where to find me. 

So, let’s talk things through, send me your questions, doubts, and thoughts. Whether you’re a dental student, dentist, or a potential patient, don’t hesitate to pitch in to the pool of conversation. I’ll share my own feedback every month, backed with facts, humour and external professional input !

I’m looking forward to hearing back from you.

Yours toothfully, 

Dr. Bee