One of the most significant lessons I learnt during my internship was the importance of a thorough patient assessment, and I came out of my internship feeling more confident in my evaluation techniques. My supervisors emphasised the need for careful observation and detailed questioning after observing my assessments real-time and encouraged me to adopt a more structured approach to understand my patients’ oral hygiene practices. I was able to better identify and address oral health concerns, and this attention to detail helped hone my clinical decision-making skills.

I also gained practical exposure to a variety of dental procedures, including instrumentation and handling complex cases. My supervisors carefully guided me through each process, and I practised each procedure under their supervision. Their timely corrections and encouragement motivated me to continuously refine my technique, reinforcing the importance of precision and adaptability in patient care.

Beyond technical expertise, my supervisors also played a critical role in shaping my patient communication skills. They demonstrated firsthand how to engage with patients effectively, showing me how to actively listen and tailor my explanations to each patient’s level of understanding. I learnt how to foster trust and ensure patients felt informed and comfortable with their treatment plans. Their constant feedback and encouragement transformed the way I interacted with patients, making communication a strength rather than a challenge.

Reflecting on my internship experience, I realise that the guidance I received not only strengthened my technical abilities but also deepened my understanding of patient-centered care. I feel more empowered to navigate the challenges of clinical practice, and my positive internship experience has reinforced my passion for the field and preparing me for the next steps in my career.