IMPROVEMENTS IN DENTAL LITERACY AND GREATER INSIGHTS THROUGH DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY

Dr Kenneth Soh, General Dentist
Smart Dental,
Kellyville, New South Wales

PEOPLE IN HEALTH CARE SEGMENT
Filmed in Sydney | February 2025

Dr. Kenneth Soh is a General Dentist based in Kellyville, New South Wales, a suburb located in northwestern Sydney. Originally from Melbourne, he studied Bachelor of Dental Science (BDSc) at Melbourne University and graduated in 2003. After working for a year in the Mornington Peninsula, Dr. Soh moved to New South Wales, initially thinking it would be temporary; however, he has been there for 19 years. While he has considered specialising, he finds joy in all aspects of dentistry.

Dr. Soh notes that dental care has evolved significantly, particularly with advancements in technology and increased patient awareness. Many patients now come in equipped with knowledge about their treatment options, often asking about cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening. His practice has embraced digital technology early on, transitioning from traditional paper notes and film X-rays to digital forms, including intraoral sensors and cone beam imaging.

This transition to digital technology has provided dentists with a clearer understanding of dental health, allowing for better diagnostics and treatment planning. Dr. Soh emphasises the growing dental literacy among General Practitioners, who now often refer patients for dental check-ups before starting certain medications, such as those for osteoporosis.

The dental training landscape has changed as well, moving toward more competitive entry processes and varied educational paths. Dr Soh talks about the hard journey becoming a dentist currently being at university for seven years before someone can start as a dentist. He shares his observations as a General Dentist and gives his advice for anyone who enjoys working with teeth, with people, incorporating science as well as artistic flair!