Hi, I’m Sarah. I recently moved to Newcastle from Worcester in the UK. I have worked in dentistry for over 20 years and enjoy all aspects of my role but helping patients feel comfortable and at ease is the most rewarding part of the job for me. On a day off you will find me on a beautiful beach with an iced coffee in hand spending quality time with my family.
Quick Q&A With Sarah Nokes
What is the most satisfying part of the job?
Seeing a child or nervous patient build confidence and trust, enabling them to become and stay dentally fit.
What are the challenges?
Remembering everyone’s little quirks and being one step ahead all of the time.
What’s your best tip for oral hygiene?
Electric toothbrush.
What toothbrush do you use?
Oral B Pro.
How do you create a calm environment for patients who are nervous?
Keep a calm chilled demeanour, smile, chat but know when to be quiet! Try not to have instruments visible that may cause distress. Offer reassurance and acknowledge feelings. As a person who is nervous about visiting the dentist myself, I think about how I personally feel sitting in the dental chair.
If you didn’t work in a dental clinic, what would you do?
Speech and Language Therapist.
Cat or Dog?
Dog.
Sweet or Savoury?
Sorry has to be both.
Go to karaoke song?
Hot Fudge by Robbie Williams.
Favourite way to relax?
Spa Day.
Bucket list item?
Visit Skopelos in Greece.
What makes you smile?
Hearing my daughter laugh.