During March, we celebrate International Women’s Day, and it’s an excellent opportunity to point out how the face of dentistry has changed over the past few decades. Previously, dentistry was a male-oriented career, but nowadays you are just as likely to see a woman dentist and some practices are staffed entirely by women. Dentistry is a career choice that makes perfect sense for women for many reasons. Women tend to be gentler and more approachable than men, so patients who are nervous or anxious can find it easier to talk to a female. Also, women dentists take the time to communicate and empathise with patients, taking great care to minimise discomfort in the dental chair. Often, these qualities see women spearheading dental programs to help others.
Our very own Dr Naomi Hollander graduated in 1989 and has undoubtedly seen the industry change tremendously during her career. Since opening her first practice in 1993, Dr Hollander has expanded her skills extensively taking numerous continuing education courses including orthodontics and dental implants. Dr Naomi has accreditation at St John of God private hospital, where she performs complex wisdom teeth removals and implant surgery. We asked her why she wanted to become a dentist and here are her answers.
“I became a dentist because I wanted a career that was challenging yet rewarding, a career where I could help others and be a service to the community, and finally a career where I could determine my own goals and set my own targets. Dentistry ticked all these boxes. Every day I go to work, I am in my dream job. No two days are the same. As I approach the end of my career, I plan to work as a volunteer dentist in remote aboriginal communities who have little access to clinics. I also plan to volunteer overseas in poorer countries such as Papa New Guinea.”