Letters to the Editor

We would like to share our reflections on the current, unprecedented COVID-19 crisis from the perspective of a Dental Foundation Trainee (DFT).

The crisis we find ourselves in is one we would never have predicted and has, without doubt, taken dental professionals by surprise, in particular for those in their DFT year.

As it stands already, the leap from dental school to the real world of dentistry is daunting to say the least. The foundation year offers a bridge in the form of a structured learning programme and mentorship to help clinicians prepare for their career ahead. The unplanned disruption to this year has created worry and uncertainty for DFTs, with the clinical training impacted. Many DFTs are moving to potentially more demanding associate jobs or Dental Core Training (DCT) posts in just three months.

Another concern of many DFTs has been the prospect of redeployment to help ease the workload for the National Health Service (NHS). It is admirable to see the keenness of so many of our colleagues, willing and ready to volunteer, where needed, to help in this global pandemic. Despite the difficulties, we do find ourselves intrigued and impressed by how our profession and fellow colleagues, whom are responsible for our training, have been able to adapt over the past few months.