One of the main reasons I decided to pursue a dentistry degree was its incorporation of both art and medicine. Dental school combines the theory of oral health with the artistic expression of teeth, especially their aesthetic component. This allows the practitioner to visually express themselves, allowing them and the patient to appreciate the physical aspect of their work whilst benefiting the patient's health. This duality sets dental school apart from other courses primarily focusing on medical capability or artistic flair. It is fascinating to comprehend the science behind the aesthetics, such as tooth shape and colour, guiding the choice of material for restorations.
However, the incorporation of art and medicine comes with the added intensity of rigorous hands-on training. If you ask any dental student in their first or second year how they feel about the modified pen grip and use of a finger rest, they will probably respond with an exasperated sigh. Manual dexterity is pivotal in a dental student's capability to treat patients. I certainly found it challenging having to exercise my hand muscles for 3-4 hours in clinical sessions. This differs even from other clinical-based courses, as manual dexterity is not as essential at such an early stage, and hence is not as significant as it is throughout dental school.
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