Oral Health Awards – Jane Peterson and the Shine On Award

Jane Peterson talks about what it was like to be recognised for her achievements and how her award has made a difference to her practiceJane Peterson talks about what it was like to be recognised for her achievements and how the awards make a difference to her practice.

How does it feel to have won an award?

It is an honour to be recognised as someone who is striving to make a difference within the profession. It goes without saying that I am delighted to win this prestigious award.

Did you enjoy the awards evening?

The awards evening was somewhat different to the previous two that I’ve attended. Despite the awards being held virtually, it transpired to be an exhilarating evening. The bonus was that my family were able to watch and celebrate with me this time.

We watched the ceremony on a large monitor in our study and cheered when my name was announced. Afterwards I celebrated by walking to the local store for chocolates and bubbly.

Why did you choose to enter the awards?

One of my colleagues convinced me to enter the awards two years ago. I won Highly Commended Best Hygienist & Highly Commended Shine On Award.

Since winning I have accrued the interest of large organisations. These awards are recognised beyond the dental profession as a sign of value and prestige.

What do you think the awards are doing to the standards within the profession?

They inspire people within the profession to improve the quality of their work, increase their standards and demonstrate their accomplishments.

Why do you think you won?

Knowledge Oral Healthcare holds a unique place within the dental profession, it looks beyond the clinical work to a bigger vision and higher purpose. I set up Knowledge Oral Healthcare with the aim of helping support care homes by providing an oral care service and training.

Admittedly since the pandemic we have been unable to enter care homes which has meant that I have had to adapt the business, supporting and delivering oral healthcare safely with digital solutions.

I have demonstrated to the judges that I have gone beyond the usual career boundaries and have been able to create a career pathway, showing dedication and progression within the profession.

Have you noticed a difference in patient numbers/in the practice since winning the award?

Since winning the award we have had more opportunities to work with large organisations and local councils. So, certainly from a marketing perspective. The award has helped the business prosper.

Will you be entering again this year?

I will be entering the awards again this year.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Like so many other professions and businesses, the pandemic has had a huge impact. My business has seen a massive decline in the interest of oral healthcare as other tasks take priority in care homes. Routine mouth care is being missed at a time when oral healthcare is more critical than ever before.

We all have to work together to promote oral health to the general public as much as we can.


Visit the websites for more information about The Dentistry AwardsDentistry Scotland Awards and The Private Dentistry Awards.

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