A dynamic duo

Jessica and Savanna’s journeys into dentistry began in different places, yet fate brought them together at the University of Portsmouth (UOP), where they became a dental duo. Here's how two aspiring dental professionals found friendship and purpose in their shared dream of dental hygiene.

Jessica’s journey in dentistry started in 2015 at a busy NHS dental practice in the New Forest. Jessica had embraced the fast-paced environment and challenges of dental nursing, quickly mastering the skills needed to support both dentists and patients. In 2017, she earned a Level Three Diploma in dental nursing and continued working at the same practice, gaining a deeper knowledge of patient care. Jessica then decided to enrol in a Level Four Oral Health Practitioner apprenticeship in 2021, run by the NHS England Thames Valley and Wessex. Jessica was one of eight students to qualify and the first cohort in the UK which included preventive care and patient education, which inspired her to apply for dental hygiene. Jessica has a huge passion for helping patients improve their oral health and seeing positive changes in their confidence and wellbeing.