Maryann celebrates five-decade career in dental industry

A five-minute interview led to a 50-year career for dental nurse, Maryann Whitton.

Gunnedah Dental Centre recently celebrated Maryann’s half century in dental practice, which came about almost by accident.

Originally from Coonabarabran, Maryann described how a friend she met during a vocational shorthand typing course suggested she apply for a job of a different kind in Gunnedah.

“My girl friend who lived in Gunnedah called and said there was a job going in Gunnedah for a dental nurse, and she asked what do you think about that? I said ‘I hate the dentist’ and she laughed,” Maryann recalled.

“She was friends with the dentist’s son and I came over and had an interview.

“I remember having my references ready but as we sat down and started to talk, we finished our chat within about five minutes and he asked ‘can you start Monday-week?’ and that was it.

“I went home with my (references) and he didn’t even look at them.”

Maryann said much has changed in the dental industry over the decades particularly in technology – both administratively and in health practice.

“There were no computers of course, everything was done manually, but infection control and sterilisation are some of the biggest changes,” she said.

“When I started, we just had boiling water – now we have wonderful machines that we run cycles through hour after hour.”

Some of her favourite memories include her time as fly-in, fly-out dental nurse during her early years working at Gunnedah.

Maryann with her ‘Certificate of Proficiency’ from the Dental Assistants Association of Australia – dated June 20, 1977.

“The dentist had a plane and would fly from Gunnedah to Wee Waa once a week to work at their medical centre,” Maryann said.

“We were picked up at the airport by another dental assistant, and we’d pack a lot of our instruments and materials that we’d need because we would only be there for the day.

“I was very young but it was great fun.

“Every time we’d fly into Wee Waa there would be a cross wind, and the little single engine plane would be going up and down.

“I used to fly to Sydney sometimes as well when the dentist was involved with the dental association.”

The dental nurse has been “blessed” to work with some great colleagues over the years.

She said equal amounts of tolerance and compassion have served her well during her 50 years in the dental industry, especially when it comes to reassuring patients.

“It’s just about communicating with people,” Maryann said.

“I’m very passionate about my patients being comfortable and feeling at ease.

“I like talking to people about what their needs are.”

She urged school leavers or those contemplating a career change, to consider a job in the dental industry.

“It’s a very rewarding and fulfilling profession to work in,” Maryann said.

Gunnedah Dental Centre practice manager Gaya Muthusamy said Maryann’s contribution to the business and the wider dental industry, cannot be understated.

“Maryann is a valuable member of the team, her contribution to the practice and the community is outstanding,” Gaya said.

“She brings so much energy and enthusiasm to work.”

To book your next appointment, contact the team at Gunnedah Dental Centre.