Emma Louisa Smith, originally from Market Harborough, won the Dental Skills Competition, held by The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh’s Faculty of Dental Surgery in conjunction with sponsors Dentsply Sirona and supported by Dr Tom Bereznicki, beating off stiff competition from 14 other finalists.
Mishaim Aamir Mian from Cork University Dental School came in second place, followed by Kirsty Skye Dickson from Glasgow University Dental School in third place.
In a bid to uncover the best talent amongst undergraduate dentists, final year dental students have been competing in heats held in 18 UK and Irish dental schools from October to December 2019.
Emma Louisa has won a trip to Chicago to attend the Chicago Dental Society Conference 2021 for winning The Grand Final, and Mishaim Aamir Mian is set to receive a trip to Ballaigues in Switzerland for placing second.
The dedicated student attended Robert Smyth Academy before going on to study dentistry at Leeds University.
The Grand Final of the competition was followed by a dinner in the Edinburgh College, where presentations were made to the winner and two runners-up. All participants in the competition received a certificate of participation and two years’ affiliation with The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.
Professor Fraser McDonald, Dean of RCSEd’s Faculty of Dental Surgery, said:
“This competition is part our long term commitment to support and encourage the next generation of dental professionals. Fifteen aspiring young dentists took part, carrying out practical evaluations in areas that aren’t often assessed in their normal environment.
“We would like to commend all the students who took part, and congratulate Emma for the well-deserved win.”
Gerry Campbell, VP and General Manager UK at Dentsply Sirona, commented:
"We’re delighted to continue our partnership with The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. The Dental Skills Competition is a fantastic opportunity for upcoming dental professionals to thrive and grow.
"We are committed to providing innovative solutions for better, faster, safer dentistry and investing in future talent, through our expansive education programme. It is our desire and privilege to support dental professionals throughout their career.”
Emma Louisa said: “The feeling when I won was amazing. I felt very overwhelmed and proud.
“The whole day was just brilliant and I met some really lovely people that I hope I will remain friends with for a very long time.”
To find out more about the Dental Skills Competition, visit rcsed.ac.uk/skillscompdental or follow on social media via @RCSEd.