Unique challenges face women in dentistry

What has your career journey been like?

I’ve had a fairly traditional progression from dental student to Dental Foundation Training, to associate to Principal dentist. I had three maternities during that time but sadly they were all incredibly short (I’m talking weeks not months).

What challenges have you have faced?

I was not welcome to stay in my first associate position when I revealed I was expecting my first child. It was very worrying trying to find another position when I was pregnant and not very experienced.

Since then, balancing dentistry with the demands of being a wife and mother to three young children has, at times, been tough.

I often feel like I am failing, or at least coasting, in everything I do.

What are the challenges specifically facing women in dentistry?

Being pregnant while trying to perform dentistry can be a significant challenge, especially if you suffer hyperemesis like I did. Every bad smell will set you off! 

In my early career I had lots of male patients be sceptical about whether I would be able to extract their teeth, how would a little woman be strong enough? Thankfully, it’s not generally an issue these days.

How have we supported you during challenges in your career?

The BDA has been a lifeline, genuinely, meeting colleagues and becoming part of a community with purpose has saved me from some really dark times. When those feelings of failure have crept in to disturb me, when I’ve felt like the most rubbish dentist in the world, my friends, and colleagues I’ve gained through my BDA network have picked me up and brought me perspective. 

How is your experience as a female chair?

I have enjoyed my time as Chair and previously Vice Chair of several committees immensely. The imposter syndrome does creep in at times, but the BDA staff work so hard to ensure that I have information that I need, it’s rare now that I feel unprepared or off balance in any situation. 

How can we encourage more women to take leadership roles?

We have to model what is possible and be ready to be flexible. 

Men too want to have time to spend with their children and grandchildren, and share in childcare, so having the choice to attend meetings online or to fit into busy schedules can be of great benefit.