By Samantha Ashenhurst
NSDA Communications Manager

Atlantic Canada’s next generation of dentists gathered at The Prince George Hotel in downtown Halifax on September 12 to celebrate the Nova Scotia Dentist Association’s annual Welcome to the Profession night. Sponsored by CDSPI, the much-anticipated event hosted dozens of first- to fourth-year Dalhousie Dentistry students for an evening of good food, refreshments, and, of course, networking.

Dr. Claire Karst, President of the NSDA, kicked the evening off with a short speech.

“Tonight is about welcoming you to the profession, introducing you to the role of the provincial dental associations, and offering support, whether you are starting your journey in dental school or continuing your travels to the finish line,” Dr. Karst said.

The event, which was organized by the NSDA Mentorship/Shared Learning Committee — Drs. Joanne Thomas, Marianne Dobbin, Jennifer MacLellan, Carrie Terry, and Sukhip Singh — hosted many special guests, including representatives from CDSPI, the Provincial Dental Board of Nova Scotia, and the Faculty of Dentistry at Dalhousie University. Executive members of the New Brunswick Dental Society, the Dental Association of Prince Edward Island, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Dental Association also joined in on the fun and chatted with students about what life could look like post-graduation.

Reinforcing this sense of community is a significant aspect of organized dentistry, Dr. Karst shared in her address.

“As a dentist myself who entered dental school in 1985, the journey will challenge you, teach you, and shape you into more than just clinicians, but life-long learners, educators, advocates, and community leaders,” she said.

As with every Welcome to the Profession event, the night featured an activity. This year’s game (which demanded knowledge of the provinces, as well as some strategy and educated guesses) asked students to work together in small teams and engage in a little friendly competition.

“Please, look around this room,” Dr. Karst said. “This is where your success starts, building community with your student colleagues and realizing collaboration is key. Dentistry is a team effort, whether you are working with specialists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, or lab technicians to achieve the best outcomes for your patients.”

“Remember: At the heart of what we do are the people we serve. When we have a patient-centred approach, we build trust, empathy, and relationships that can last a lifetime.”