
Newly qualified dentist Christopher Ndidi Gbenoba shares his experience with the mydentist mentorship programme.
Starting a career in dentistry can feel overwhelming. After graduating from Masaryk University in the Czech Republic in 2022, I was eager to begin practising, but I needed to figure out how to transition from university to clinical practice. Fortunately, the mydentist mentorship programme has been an incredible resource, providing me with the support, guidance and opportunities I needed to thrive.
In just two years, this programme has helped me build my skills, confidence and career in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Mentorship has shown me that success in dentistry isn’t just about clinical skills. It’s about having the right environment to learn, grow and connect with others in the profession.
A support system for new graduates
As a newly qualified dentist, I had plenty of theoretical knowledge but was still finding my feet in clinical practice. The mydentist mentorship programme bridged that gap seamlessly. I was paired with Dr Christos Tsertsidis, an experienced and dedicated mentor whose guidance has been invaluable.
Christos’s background is impressive. He qualified in 2012 from the Dental School of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and had a successful career in Greece’s military dental services. He brought a wealth of knowledge in general dentistry, oral surgery, and advanced procedures like ClearCorrect aligner treatment.
Having Christos as a mentor has made a huge difference to my growth, development and confidence. His ability to break down complex concepts, share his experiences and provide practical advice has helped me grow as a clinician and a professional. His emphasis on precision, backed by magnification and advanced 3D technology, has inspired me to continue to learn as I progress within my role as a newly qualified dentist.
Tailored development and career progression
One of the standout aspects of the mentorship programme is how it caters to individual interests and career goals. For example, I recently started a ClearCorrect aligner course provided by mydentist. This course has been a game-changer for me, giving me an early insight into orthodontics and its growing role in modern dentistry. It’s exciting to be part of a profession and provider that’s constantly evolving, and the mentorship programme has helped me stay ahead of the curve.
Christos has been instrumental in this part of my development. As a ClearCorrect provider himself, he has shared invaluable insights into the process and how it can transform patients’ smiles. His enthusiasm for continuous learning – he regularly attends dental courses to stay up to date – has been infectious. He has encouraged me to pursue my own professional development with the same level of dedication.
Another highlight is the flexibility of the mentorship programme. If there’s a specific skill or area I want to focus on, it’s easy to arrange time for that. My managers have been very accommodating, allowing me to dedicate time to courses or other areas of professional development.
Building confidence in the workplace
Beyond clinical skills, the mentorship programme has helped me build my confidence. When you’re just starting out as a newly qualified dentist, it’s easy to feel unsure about your abilities or decisions but having mentors and colleagues who genuinely care about your success makes all the difference.
I know I can go to my practice manager, or the rest of our practice team, for advice or support if I need it. Regular visits from my clinical development advisor Ruth Patefield have also been incredibly reassuring. She always makes sure she comes by to say hello – it creates such a friendly environment.
Ruth’s support, combined with Christos’s mentoring, has been instrumental in my development.
Creating a pathway for the future
The mydentist mentorship programme has not only helped me navigate my early years as a dentist but also laid the foundation for my future. Through the programme, I’ve gained clarity about the kind of dentist I want to be and the areas I want to specialise in. Whether it’s further developing my skills in orthodontics or exploring new fields, I am equipped to take the next steps with confidence.
Christos’s example has been inspiring in this regard. His ability to balance his professional achievements with a fulfilling personal life has shown me that it’s possible to excel in dentistry while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. As I near the end of my mentorship journey, I feel incredibly grateful for the experience. It’s been an opportunity to learn, grow and connect with others who share my passion for dentistry.
Advice for aspiring dentists
I’ve just about finished my mentorship with Christos, and it’s been an amazing experience overall. For anyone considering a career in dentistry, especially new graduates or overseas dentists, I can’t recommend mydentist and its mentorship scheme enough. It provides the structure, guidance and community needed to thrive in this challenging but rewarding profession.
With the proper guidance and support, I’ve been able to take my first steps as a confident, skilled dentist. I’m excited about the future and grateful to be part of a profession and work with a provider that allows me to make a difference every day.
For more information on careers at mydentist, visit www.mydentist.co.uk/careers/dentist-jobs/.
This article is sponsored by mydentist.