Letitia Blaikie joins the team at Lumino Rosedale as their new oral health therapist, providing hygiene services, dental therapy and whitening.
What made you decide to get into dentistry as a career?
I always knew I wanted to have a hands-on job, with lots of variety day to day. I got into dentistry kind of by chance but it was the best thing I could have done and I’ve never looked back!
How long have you been practising?
Almost 10 years as a dental assistant. I then graduated from Auckland University of Technology in 2021 with a Bachelor of Health Science in Oral Health.
Tell us about your career background.
I started working at Lumino when I was just 18 years old with only a few months of previous dental assisting experience behind me. Throughout my years at Lumino, I have had the opportunity to attend various courses in order to upskill such as getting my dental assisting certification and sedation monitoring certification. I decided to retrain and become an oral health therapist as I loved the work I did as a dental assistant but I wanted to be doing even more.
What do you love most about your job?
I love the variety that the day brings and being able to work with my hands. I enjoy getting to know my patients and creating an environment that they feel relaxed and comfortable in. I know a lot of patients can have anxiety when coming to the dentil clinic and I love getting feedback that it was actually a good experience for them – which is how it should be!
What are your special interests in dentistry?
I have a special interest in oral health education. I love chatting with my patients on how they can achieve optimum oral health and providing the tools to make it happen. I’m passionate about gum health and having my patients feel confident when they smile.
What is the main piece of advice you give your patients?
Seeing a dentist/hygienist regularly is the best way to avoid small issues turning into big problems. The earlier an issue is spotted, the easier it can be treated. Also, FLOSS! It really is one of the best things you can do to prevent decay and gum diseases.
Where would we find you outside of the practice?
I really enjoy anything outdoors – the Tongariro Crossing being one of my favorite achievements. I have two dogs and love spending time with them, particularly at the beach. When I’m at home I almost always have my nose in a book or trying my hand at water colours.