Looks like it is official, I am now in my third year of my radiology residency. What have I learned so far?
- I am much more capable of diagnosing now than I ever was before. Radiology has given me the confidence to be able to look at radiographs and also correlate my clinical findings to have a better understanding of what I am about to treat (and not treat if appropriate).
- As a general dentist I had an “I know it all” complex. I pretty much thought that I was awesome and you cannot top my awesomeness. Unfortunately I am not kidding. I, as many other dentists do, fell into the ego trap. I am glad I am out of it and much more humbled by the human body.
- Success isn’t measured only by dollar signs… Otherwise I would have been very happy as a GP.
- There is still so much that I need to learn.
Overall I have to say that I am very excited to continue this journey. Truly one of the best experiences I’ve had in education. It will be bitter sweet when I am done. So what’s next? Right now I am collecting data for my master’s thesis. I am also starting to study (something I rarely do) in order to prepare for the boards. Those are the two major hurdles left. Once complete I am free to practice radiology. My certificate should arrive relatively soon in the scheme of things and I can’t wait for it. I have never framed any of my diplomas before. I’ll be lucky if I can even find them. This certificate however… Will go on the wall.
If general dentistry may still be part of your immediate future plans post graduation, are you worried that you will have lost much of your clinical skills 3 years out of practice?
To be honest I am not. It may take a week or two to get back into the groove, but I don’t think there will be something substantial that I’m missing. I’ve always believed dentistry is like riding a bike. You just need to get back on.