The post-COVID world reshaped the dental landscape, revealing a pressing issue: the surge in demand for private dental treatments outstripped the supply of skilled dentists ready to meet this need. Doctor A realised that transitioning dentists from NHS roles to private practice required more than just a change of setting. The gap in skills, confidence and expectations was too wide.
Consequently, the Private Dental Mentor (PDM) course was born—a brainwave that came to Doctor A where he envisioned a comprehensive training pathway to bridge this gap, equipping dentists with the foundational skills needed to thrive in private practice. ‘PDM aims to equip dentists with the necessary skills, confidence and communication abilities required for private practice, focusing on foundational dentistry rather than high-end cosmetic procedures,’ explains Doctor A. ‘It aims to enable you to carry out good quality dentistry that will help you become a popular and successful dentist in your area. Dentists can then build on that in the future once their foundations are solidly established.’
PDM offers three-course options tailored to different needs. The Two-Day Courses provide a glimpse into private practice essentials. Individual Modules allow dentists to focus on specific areas, offering flexibility and depth. The flagship 12-month PDM Programme focuses on a different theme each month, starting with a face-to-face session and followed by weekly Zoom mentor sessions.
Topics include pain management, communication skills, restorations, morphology, rubber dam skills, photography, root canal treatments, and more. And yes, there’s even a digital SLR camera for participants to keep!
The magic ingredient of PDM is mentorship. There are informal conversations where Doctor A and other mentors offer guidance, answer questions, and help dentists navigate the tricky terrain of private practice. These sessions aren’t just about knowledge transfer; they’re about creating a supportive community where continuous learning thrives.
PDM is a treasure trove for anyone willing to acknowledge their gaps and invest in their growth. The course is flexible, and dentists can choose specific modules if space allows, though the full programme is a popular choice. The payment structure is as thoughtful as its curriculum, with monthly plans tailored for both fresh graduates and seasoned associates. The future looks bright, with plans to expand to other UK cities and start a second cohort for foundation dentists, making quality private dental training accessible to more practitioners.
The Private Dental Mentor (PDM) course is a unique pathway to excellence, born from Doctor A’s passion for dentistry and dedication to innovation. But it isn’t just a course; it’s a transformative journey from NHS to private practice with a safety net of support and mentorship.
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