Staff profile: Passion for dentistry led to dual qualification
We sat down with dental hygienist Monica Bulaclac to find out what drives her in her career and what advice she gives to her patients
What does your role entail?
As a dental hygienist, I focus on preventative oral care. I treat patients to prevent or control gum disease and dental decay for both children and adults. I also provide specific oral health instructions, dry mouth management, smoking cessation advice and dietary guidelines that are tailored to suit individual needs.
What do you most love about your job?
What I love most about my job is the opportunity to help patients improve their oral health. While it may seem to be repetitive, I enjoy meeting different people as I build a rapport with them and educate them. Teaching is my passion and this is a big part of being a hygienist. I also like carrying out precise work with my hands.
Where did you study?
I have a dual qualification from Dublin Dental University Hospital in Trinity College Dublin where I received my Diploma in Dental Hygiene and Dental Nursing.
What advice would you give young people about entering dentistry as a career?
To just go for it and be prepared for the challenges ahead. It is a rewarding career and it takes hard work, passion and commitment. In the end, it will be worth it. Perseverance is the key.
What piece of advice do you tend to give to all your patients?
- Oral health is as important as general health.
- Your oral hygiene homecare routine should be combined with regular dental visits and hygiene maintenance.
- Only brush the teeth they want to keep *wink*.
What’s the best way to encourage children to keep their teeth strong and healthy?
It is imperative for children and parents to understand that good dental habits at an early age provide a good foundation for adult or permanent teeth. In order for children to have strong and healthy teeth, we must constantly teach and remind them to brush their teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
A visit to their dentist and hygienist is vital to monitoring any dental problems such as decay.
Lastly, a healthy diet is the key to a better oral health. It is not the amount of sugar in food or drink that causes damage to childrens’ teeth, but the number of times they have sugar. Parents’ supervision and guidance are necessary.
What should older patients do to look after their teeth?
In order to maintain good oral health, older patients should keep up with their oral hygiene homecare by using the right tools and technique; they must attend their dentist and hygienist regularly, eat a healthy balanced diet and increase their water intake; they should make it a habit to go for regular medical check-ups.
How do you relax after work and on the weekends?
After work, I often meet up with friends for food and on Sundays I usually ‘worship lead’ or play the drums for our community church. I love having three days off: I get enough time to rest and relax.
If you hadn’t entered dentistry, what would your dream job have been?
I’ve always wanted to be involved in events management. I do it for some of my friends and colleagues. I love organising social events and celebrations. I like recreating different themes where I get to bring out my organisational and artistic side.
Learn more on the team at Northumberland Dental Care or book an appointment.
