If I could sit with my younger self after BDS, here’s what I would say.
A letter to the next generation of dentists.
Dear colleagues,
Congratulations. Behind that BDS degree are years of hard work, clinical postings, examinations and sacrifices. Take a moment to appreciate what you have achieved.
Then give yourself permission to be a beginner.
You may know the theory and still feel nervous treating a patient independently. You may understand a procedure and still need someone beside you while you perform it. That is a normal part of becoming a clinician.
Confidence should grow from competence. Give it time.
Find a mentor who teaches you how to think, explains why a treatment is needed and helps you recognise when it is better to wait, reconsider or refer.
Before asking, “How do I perform this procedure?” learn to ask, “Does this patient need it, and am I ready to provide it safely?”
Build your foundations carefully. History taking, diagnosis, treatment planning, infection control, communication and follow-up deserve as much attention as your clinical technique.
Learn to listen. A patient sitting in your chair may be carrying fear, financial concerns or a difficult past experience. The way you explain and reassure matters.
This gap between knowing and doing is one of the reasons I started Dental Courses Delhi in 2011.
I wanted to create a place where dentists could ask questions freely, observe clinical decisions, and develop their skills through structured learning and supervised hands-on training.
My aim was to help young dentists understand the reasoning behind each step, recognise their limitations and build confidence through guided practice.
A course should be a step in your development, followed by continued practice, mentorship and honest assessment of your abilities. A certificate alone cannot do that work for you.
Choose your training thoughtfully. Look for supervision, sound clinical reasoning, patient safety and support when you face difficulties.
And please remember:
Respect your assistants and reception team. Be honest about what you can deliver. Ask for help early. Look after your posture, your health and the people waiting for you at home.
There will be difficult cases, quiet months and days when you question yourself. Keep learning through them. Your first few years do not have to look impressive online to become a strong foundation for a meaningful career.
Build a practice you can be proud of, one patient and one responsible decision at a time.
Warm wishes,
Dr. Rajat Sachdeva, MDS, MBA
Founder, Dr. Rajat Sachdeva’s Dentistry & Academy
Dental Courses Delhi | Mentoring dentists since 2011
www.dentalcoursesdelhi.com
To my senior colleagues: What is one lesson you wish someone had taught you after BDS?