The 2024 Best Young Dentist on her journey so far

Winner of Best Young Dentist at the 2024 Dentistry Awards, Simran Bains shares her inspirations, her career aspirations and how she finds balance.

Why did you choose dentistry as a career path?

Dentistry combines my passion for healthcare with the opportunity to make a meaningful, long-term impact on people’s lives. Dentistry isn’t just about treating problems; it’s about fostering trust, building lasting relationships, and helping patients achieve their best health and confidence. I love that this profession allows me to blend science, artistry, and compassion, creating a positive difference not just when someone is in pain, but by empowering them to maintain lifelong wellness. 

Can you share your career journey so far?

I graduated from Manchester University in 2017 and completed dental foundation training on the Birmingham City Scheme. Following this, I worked as an oral maxillofacial SHO at a district general hospital. This role was transformative for me, as I gained invaluable surgical skills, mastered time management, and learned how to stay composed under the pressures of a fast-paced environment. These lessons have shaped my ability to handle even the most challenging situations with confidence.

I then worked in a high-needs NHS practice transitioning to private practice at Rock Dental in Wolverhampton, where I have been able to focus on restorative and cosmetic dentistry – areas I’m deeply passionate about. Over the years, I have enhanced my technical skills, especially in managing complex cases, ensuring I could meet the diverse needs of my patients. This experience reinforced the importance of adaptability and problem solving in dentistry.

The British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD) has been a fundamental part of my career to date. I joined as a student representative in my third year of university. After graduation, I became part of the Young Membership Committee and my journey with the BACD continued as I joined the board of directors as the young membership chair, and recently, I’ve had the honour of taking on the role of membership director. This progression has given me a broader perspective on the profession, the value of mentorship, and the impact of a supportive community within dentistry.

Dentistry is a profession where we never stop learning, evolving, and growing, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to contribute and make a difference.

What are your favourite aspects of dentistry?

One of my favourite aspects of dentistry is restorative and cosmetic work. I find it incredibly rewarding to uncover a patient’s ‘why’ – the deeper reason behind their visit – and to help them regain their confidence and self-esteem through a healthy, beautiful smile. It’s an honour to play a part in such transformative journeys, where the results are not just physical but also emotional and life changing.

I also deeply enjoy working with nervous patients. Earning their trust, building genuine relationships, and helping them overcome their fears is one of the most fulfilling parts of my job. There’s something incredibly special about seeing a once-anxious patient walk into the practice with ease or leave with a smile they’re proud to show off. 

And your least favourite?

While I truly love dentistry, one of the more challenging aspects is the fear of litigation, which was continually mentioned at university. Early on, I felt the weight of ensuring that every treatment plan, decision, and interaction was perfect. While this attention to detail is essential in providing high-quality care, the pressure can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for new graduates navigating their early careers.

This challenge has taught me the importance of clear communication, thorough documentation, and always acting in the patient’s best interest. It has also encouraged me to embrace lifelong learning and stay up to date with best practices, which ultimately makes me a better clinician. While the fear of litigation is a reality in our profession, I’ve learned to focus on building trust with my patients and delivering care with confidence, knowing I’m doing everything I can to provide the best outcomes.

What prompted you to enter the Dentistry Awards?

Honestly, it was a combination of encouragement from some of my colleagues and a bit of a ‘why not?’ moment. I thought it would be a great way to reflect on all the growth I’ve achieved along the way, but never did I think that I would win overall – that was the icing on the cake, and it still feels absolutely incredible!

What are your plans for the next five years? 

After the Dentistry Awards, I was fortunate to receive a job offer, I’m really looking forward to this new chapter, where I can continue to develop my skills in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, work with incredible teams, and build strong relationships with my patients. It’s such an exciting opportunity to grow professionally, take on new challenges, and push myself to the next level in my career.

On a personal note, I’ve got some exciting holidays planned! I’m currently learning to ski – which has been a fun (and slightly humbling) adventure – and I definitely need to balance that out with a sunny holiday soon. A bit of après-ski mixed with some beach relaxation sounds like the perfect combination.

How do you maintain a good work-life balance?

This is definitely a work in progress for me. I’ll be honest – I don’t completely switch off because dentistry is such a big part of who I am. I’m always thinking about ways to improve, whether it’s reflecting on cases, planning for the future, or keeping up with the latest developments in the field.

That said, I’ve learned that balance doesn’t always mean disconnecting entirely; sometimes it’s about finding fulfilment in both your work and personal life. I make time for things that help me recharge, like spending time with friends and family, planning holidays, and making sure I have little things to look forward to – like booking a sunny getaway to balance out the winter holidays.

Baking is one of my favourite ways to unwind – it helps me relax and get creative in a completely different way (check me out on Instagram at @sweettoothfairybakes!), I also love spending time with my dog, Mylo, a very entertaining three-year-old Lhasa Apso who always keeps me on my toes.

For me, it’s less about switching off and more about integrating the things I love into my routine. 

Who is your inspiration?

My biggest inspiration has always been my mum and dad. They’ve both instilled in me a strong work ethic and a ‘can-do’ attitude that’s shaped who I am today. My mum’s passion for hard work is truly inspiring – she’s incredibly driven, determined, and never afraid to face challenges head-on. She’s shown me the importance of resilience, perseverance, and always striving for excellence, no matter the circumstances.

My dad brings a calm, steady influence. His ability to stay composed, think logically, and approach situations with patience has taught me the value of balance and perspective, especially in high-pressure environments.

Together, they’ve always encouraged me to do everything to the best of my ability, supporting me through every step of my journey. Their belief in me has been my greatest motivation to keep pushing forward and never settle for less than my best.

What advice would you give to younger dentists entering the profession? 

To younger dentists entering the profession, my main piece of advice is to never stop learning. Dentistry is constantly evolving, and the more you invest in developing your skills, the better equipped you’ll be to provide the best care for your patients. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek guidance from those with more experience, and be open to new techniques and technology.

It’s also important to take care of your mental and physical wellbeing. Dentistry can be demanding, and it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle. Make sure you’re balancing your professional growth with personal time, whether that’s spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, or simply giving yourself space to recharge.

And lastly, build relationships with your patients. Dentistry is more than just clinical work; it’s about helping people feel confident and cared for. Take the time to connect with your patients, listen to their concerns, and always aim to make a positive impact.

The journey may be challenging at times, but remember, every experience is an opportunity to grow. Keep pushing forward, stay passionate, and trust that you’re making a difference. 

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