From Romania to Manchester – paediatric dentist shares her journey

“I came over to the UK to pursue an ambition in my late 30s, and it was difficult at first, but I received support wherever I went.” Paediatric dentist shares her experience of living and working in the UK.

Hear the fascinating story of Lead Employer paediatric dentist trainee, Dr Catrinel Gheorghiu, who shares insight on her training journey so far and aspirations in the dental industry on National Dentist Day 2024.

It’s an early February morning in Manchester; spring is just around the corner. “There are not many days that look alike!” Dr Catrinel Gheorghiu explains with a warm smile as she sits down for a quick chat ahead of preparing for her customary busy shift at the University Dental Hospital in the heart of the city.

From Romania to North West England – with a detour to the Middle East and Scotland wedged in-between – Catrinel has been on quite the journey.

“I did my undergraduate training and a master’s degree in Romania at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj-Napoca. I joined the academic team and was a clinical lecturer at the same university, as well as working as a general dental practitioner in my home country at a private practice.

“I then experienced a few years in the Middle East as a dentist in a busy hospital before I decided to move to the UK, attracted by the high standards of life and education.”

Leaving behind comfort, family, and friends to seek fresh opportunities, adjusting to a new culture and environment didn’t come without its challenges.

However, the support of a diverse workforce in the NHS, and the kind-hearted nature of colleagues, were both key factors in ensuring a smooth transition.

Inspired by the previous work of her grandmother, combined with an admirable passion to care for others, it’s little surprise to see that Catrinel’s continual progression shows no signs of wavering.

“I moved to the UK in 2017,” Catrinel said. “I came over alone, and it was difficult at first, like all the new beginnings, but I received support wherever I went.

“I did a doctorate in clinical dentistry in paediatric dentistry at the University of Edinburgh (Edinburgh Dental institute), which equipped me with knowledge and skills to successfully sit the Royal College of Surgeons examination for the membership in paediatric dentistry.

“I am now a proud member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, and my name has been on the specialist list at the General Dental Council since 2021.”

Following this, Catrinel worked as a specialty dentist for two years at Manchester Foundation Trust, where she was supported and inspired to continue her training.

“I worked with amazing consultants both in Edinburgh and Manchester, real role models, and I have learned so much from them both in terms of dentistry and management of people and situations. I have been inspired to become a consultant myself.”

Catrinel started her specialist registrar training in 2023. Currently working between two placements in Manchester, with a rotation to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool also on the horizon, Catrinel relishes the variation in responsibilities that her role provides, even if there are some obstacles to contend with along the way.

“One day we can be in theatre, another we can be in the outpatient clinics, sometimes we visit patients on the wards, and regularly we’re all brainstorming around interesting cases in multidisciplinary clinics.

“I’m working with many children that are really anxious, but also with children who have complicated medical conditions, and we sometimes encounter parents that have very high demands.

“It can also be overwhelming seeing children on hospital wards that are really sick, but I never feel alone at work. I always feel supported in the NHS and there is always kindness and a cup of tea on offer!

“When I see a child smiling after dental treatment, or overcoming their own dental anxieties, that’s really rewarding and nothing compares to that satisfaction. I’m pleased that I can do my part for children to receive the dental care they need.

“There are also so many opportunities to develop skills, from academic writing to clinical governance projects.”

Catrinel is also clear in her message to all our fellow dental trainees on National Dentist Day 2024.

Dentistry is challenging and has a lot of responsibility, but it provides so much satisfaction. Training is demanding but remember there is a support network available for you.

“We have a saying in Romania that ‘nobody can take your knowledge away from you,’ so I would encourage you to continue pursuing your dreams and work hard for them.

“The NHS supports people very well and I have especially found that to be true coming from a different country.”

National Dentist Day is celebrated every year on 6 March. It was established as a way to show appreciation and thanks to dentists. Good luck to Catrinel and the rest of our amazing dental trainees with your training programmes!