We go Beyond the Dental Lab with Deepa Bharakhda to find out what she likes the most about being a dental technician and what she would like to improve about herself.
Please introduce yourself and where you work
Hi, my name is Deepa Bharakhda!
I am a registered dental technician that specialises in high-end prosthetics and implant denture work.
I work at a private Dental Lab, Dencraft, which is situated on-site a private specialist practice.
Tell me about where you grew up and what your family was like
I was born and raised in Old Trafford, Manchester (I’m a Mancunian girl!).
With my parents being divorced, I lived with my mother. But when I grew up I decided to live with my dad. Ever since, my dad has been my support system and supported me through my studies and my career on becoming a qualified dental technician!
What led you to a career in dentistry?
Well, I always wanted to be a dentist while I was growing up, but I lost out by a grade in my A-levels. So, I decided to take a detour.
I enrolled myself onto the dental technology degree and never looked back. I quite enjoy the challenges we face on a day-to-day basis and that’s what makes it fun!
What do you like the most about it?
I love how I can give a patient a new, confident smile! I thoroughly enjoy creating natural looking restorations, be it an implant denture, acrylic hybrid or even a simple denture.
I also take pride in making sure they are fit for function. This comes from good communication skills and teamwork between technician and clinician.
Then i use my artistic skills to add pink composites to achieve natural characteristics of gingiva!
Who/what have been the strongest influences in your life?
My dad has been a great influence in my life. He always told me to never give up and keep going. He gave me wings to fly and to become the strong, independent woman that I am today!
My colleague/friend Nina Frketin who I worked with is my backbone. I have been trained by her in pink composites.
I look up to her – she has inspired me so much!
How would friends and acquaintances describe you?
I asked a few people and here are a few mentions of what they have said about me.
Nina Frketin: ‘Passionate, loyal, smart, truthful, warm, thoughtful, generous, kind…just plain wonderful.’
Rob Welch: ‘Kind, hardworking and contentious’.
Paul Spencer: ‘Takes pride in her work’.
Share with us something about yourself that you want to improve
One thing i would like to improve on is this feeling I have of imposter syndrome – self doubt.
I really wish I could shake this off and be kinder to myself. This is something I am trying to work on.
How do you unwind outside of lab technical work?
I am a part-time calligrapher. I love creating commission pieces and stationeries for small businesses as well as customers. It’s a great way to unwind and let your imagination go wild in the world of lettering!
Where’s your favourite holiday destination?
That’s a difficult one. I love travelling and exploring new places! If i had to pick one it would have to be the Greek Islands.
What’s your favourite film?
Home Alone!
What music do you listen to?
All sorts, anything that makes me happy.
What was the last picture you took on your phone?
The last picture taken on my phone is a photo of the pink composites that I use on my denture and implant work.
Follow me on my page @d_mandalia to find out more!
Sum yourself up in three words
Determined, motivated and passionate about teeth.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Women empowerment! I feel we need more talented women technicians to be recognised for their work.
I am looking to see more female techs being recognised for the beautiful work they produce!
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