Megan Hurley

Hygienist

Megan Hurley

I think it is very important to take a holistic approach when treating periodontal disease. Patients are often surprised to learn that the risk of developing conditions, such as Alzheimer’s and heart disease, is higher when gum disease is present.

Furthermore, educating diabetics and smokers that these factors play a significant role in disease progression.

Why did you decide to become a Hygienist?
It was evident from my school years that I wanted to pursue a scientific-based career. I also enjoy helping people and prefer a social working environment. After a few weeks of work experience in dental practices, I was certain that dentistry was for me
Where did you train?
I graduated from the University of Birmingham in 2021 with BSc Dental Hygiene & Therapy with Distinction. I was fortunate to study in the newly built Birmingham Dental Hospital; training in the periodontic, restorative and paediatric departments. During my course, I especially enjoyed being involved in abnormal periodontal cases that required specialist care.
Tell us about your career so far.
As a new graduate, I started off in an NHS practice mainly working as a dental therapist. This involved restoring adult teeth and extracting children’s teeth. I then moved on to work across two private practices as a dental hygienist, one of which was Hilltop. In February 2022, I gained my certificate in professional teeth whitening.

At Bristol Dental Hospital I supervise dental students treating patients on the Adult Dental Health Clinic and am involved in teaching and examining on the undergraduate degree course.

I was recently appointed as a Specialist Dental Advisor to the Care Quality Commission. This post involves carrying out inspections of Dental Practices in the Southwest region to ensure that they maintain high standards of patient care, offering advice and support where needed.

What aspect of dentistry do you enjoy most?
Every working day in practice is varied, as each patient presents with individual needs. I enjoy helping patients to transform their smile – this can be through improving gum health or removing staining to restore confidence in their smile again.

I particularly feel comfortable easing dentally anxious patients into treatment. I am always willing to talk through concerns and aim to create a relaxed environment.

Tell us about Hilltop Dental Practice.

I enjoy working at Hilltop because it is a happy place where everyone works together as a team. We have regular meetings where everyone feels able to contribute and their views are important. My job can be quite stressful so having a well trained and efficient team around me is important. At Hilltop we have a fantastic team so my working life is made easier. This is reflected in the high standards of patient care we can deliver.

What do you do when not at work?

In my spare time, I enjoy keeping fit through weight training, hiking and tennis. When I get the chance, I love trying out new baking and cooking recipes to share with friends and family.

What are your aims for the future?

My aim for the future is to continue to learn and grow as a dental professional. The dental world is continuously evolving, and the prospect of new future technology excites me. In 2024, I will begin a Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Periodontics at a state-of-the-art periodontal facility in Central London. This will allow me to develop my skills and further enhance the treatment I provide for my patients.