Jonathan Fitzpatrick tells us how he got into the profession and reflects on his most memorable moment.
I’m Dr Jonathan Fitzpatrick and I work in private practice in Glasgow.
I qualified from Glasgow University in 2015 and my work is focused around Invisalign and minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry. I’m a speaker for Align and regularly give lectures and study clubs on various aspects of the Invisalign system as well as ortho-restorative techniques and composite bonding.
I’m also a clinical adviser for Aligner Consulting. I help to deliver the Invisalign Go training courses for dentists looking to introduce this into their own practice. In addition, I am about to complete postgraduate diplomas in both clear aligner therapy, and restorative and aesthetic dentistry.
What inspired you to get into dentistry?
I had a really positive experience with my orthodontist and felt first-hand the increase in confidence I got after having my own orthodontic treatment.
I felt that this would be really rewarding if I could provide this to others. So, I then did some work experience with a local dentist who was incredibly passionate and it really persuaded me that this was the career for me.
What is your most memorable experience in dentistry?
The first big lecture I gave at the Dentistry Scotland Show was a great experience and a huge career milestone for me.
I have always wanted to progress to being a speaker but never expected the opportunity to come at such an early stage in my career.
I loved every minute of being on stage and the response I received was great. It is a great feeling being able to help other dentists who are looking to learn and progress. And, see them improve after trying new techniques.
Tell us something that no one else knows about you
I starred in a commercial for Nike Golf for its US campaign at the Open in 2015 at St Andrews. I was picked up in a helicopter at the Old Course and flown to the Nike Fitting Centre at Archerfield.
We then spent the day filming a custom fit session and filming on the golf course. Finally I was flown by helicopter back to St Andrews to catch the end of the Open!
What is the most important thing that you’ve learned in your years of experience?
To always be open and honest, and do the absolute best for your patient.
In terms of cosmetic treatment, I’ll regularly advise patients that they need far less invasive or less expensive treatment than they first request if I think it can give them a great result.
Patients are really grateful for the honesty and are then over the moon with the final result.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself continuing to provide top-class minimally invasive dentistry and helping as many patients as possible.
I would also like to further my teaching and speaking career as this is an area I have really enjoyed.
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