The thought of moving halfway across the world would scare some people but Maven Dental Robina's Sarah Cash jumped at the chance to trade Manchester for the sunny Gold Coast. We caught up with Sarah to chat about how she became a hygienist, her move to Australia and what makes her smile.
What inspired you to become a hygienist?
Funny story... As the song goes - I was working as a waitress in a cocktail bar. Personally I was having the time of my life but my parents were less than impressed with my career choice so it was suggested that I apply for a training course to become a dental nurse. Not wanting to disappoint the parents, and keep them of my back a little longer, I applied thinking I wouldn’t get it. Anyway that didn’t go according to plan and I found myself enrolled in the course and working as a dental nurse. Its funny how things turn out and I realised (and I hate to admit it) that my parents were right and it was actually a pretty good career choice for me. Very early on I decided I wanted to progress further and so undertook additional training as a dental nurse before progressing and retraining as a Hygienist.
Originally from England, how has the change been moving to the Gold Coast?
We absolutely love living here on the Gold Coast! Apart from the obvious, sunny days, blue skies, beaches it’s such a great life style which we have fully embraced (apart from the early starts that is). Everyone has been so welcoming and everywhere is so beautiful we are loving exploring everything that Australia has to offer.
What gets you excited about coming to Maven Dental Robina every morning?
For me I love making patients smile and really enjoy the interaction with them, and as I can literally talk for England, I seem to build great relationships with my patients and really get to know them. Its great seeing the positive changes and watching the progression to a healthy mouth, which is really exciting especially when you think about the general health improvements that can also be achieved.
Some of us get a little nervous about going to the dentist, how do you and the team at Maven Dental Robina help anxious patients?
We’re a caring team who like to give all of our patients plenty of time and reassurance, and after assessing their needs we can find the best solution for them to help make it as comfortable as possible. Here at Southport we are also passionate about providing an exceptional patient experience and utilise essential oils, warm towels and soothing music to achieve a relaxing ambience.
“Dream Big” - something that I am happily trying to achieve every day, after all we only live once right?
What do you get up to when you’re not at Maven Dental Robina?
When I’m not at work you can guarantee that I will be soaking up the sunshine somewhere, being new to this new fantastic lifestyle I have so much more yet to see and do. I’m even contemplating learning SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding). My Husband, daughter and our little Chihuahua are my world and we love exploring and trying new things together, our days are usually packed and have such variety.
And, what makes you smile?
This is a tough one! Those that know me, know how much I like to smile; I smile at literally everything so it’s so hard to pick just one thing in particular. I’m just so lucky, I have amazing family and friends and get to live in one of the best places in the world.
Find out more about moving from the UK to Australia as a dental professional.