Week 2 was a lot better than week 1. I finally started to get a grasp of the process and paperwork. Many of my classmates are complaining about it, but they fail to realize that they just need to do it until we graduate. In all seriousness, it is not that bad. Yes, some of it is unnecessary, but it is what it is. On Wednesday, I did my first two fillings. They were the composite white fillings. While doing these procedures, I realized that I was having so much fun. This aspect of dentistry incorporates many of the engineering principles that I love. I must use a drill as a tool, I have hand instruments, I design holes to remove the cavities, and I use materials to fix the problem. In addition to that, I must make the filling look nice. Hence, there is an artistic aspect of this profession. I definitely made the correct choice in my career change.
I am really trying to hustle. There are a certain number procedures I must complete in order to graduate. To my surprise, I am the only person in my junior class that is in my 13 member group that had drilled and restored a tooth. In fact, I have completed 3 and I have 1 more this week and many more in the pipeline. I am trying to take names and numbers. This is just what I do.
I have only 2 more weeks until my summer session ends. I will then have 2 weeks of classes before I head back into clinic. I expect to be well established and comfortable to continue to work, learn and progress towards graduation. I have only 20 more months until that day comes. I see the light my friends. I see the light.