Through the Keyhole--Surgery: Away (Uruguay)

ABOUT THE DENTIST

Tell us a little about what made you pursue a career in dentistry.

I’m Dr. Marcello Romei, of Bright Smile Dental Clinic in Uruguay. I started my career by following in my dad’s footsteps. Watching his career, I developed a commitment and interest in oral health. I also enjoy connecting with other people and listening to their stories.

If you hadn’t become a dentist, what job do you think you would have had?

I would have gone into a communication-based job, because I love meeting and talking to others. Perhaps something to do with body language, or maybe even teaching. A job where I work with others suits me best.

Which university did you study at, and what qualifications do you have?

I studied at (UDELAR) University of the Republic in Uruguay. I managed to maintain good grades while I was there.

What are your particular interests and skills in dentistry?

My main interest in dentistry is oral surgery and implantology, which is what I focused on (and is what I do now).

Who would you say has had the biggest influence in your career?

My dad has been the biggest influence on my life, in both aspects. With him having been a dentist, he has been a huge influence on my career. However, he has also had a large impact with my communication skills, which are useful in my career but also in general life.

What could you not work without?

I couldn’t work without my team. They are really positive and have good vibes, which makes my job easier and a lot more enjoyable.

What’s your favourite procedure to carry out?

While I do have a passion for oral surgery, I also love talking to the patients. I like to find out what their hopes are for the treatment, and I like to achieve those hopes when I work with them. So, any procedure that gets the patient where they want to be, that’s the aspect of my job I enjoy the most.

What do you think is the biggest problem or challenge in dentistry today?

In my country, the profession has been undervalued; there are many dental professionals but a small population. This means that there aren’t always enough patients to sustain a successful practice.

What’s the biggest advancement you have seen in dentistry in your career?

The biggest advancements I’ve seen are in aesthetic dentistry and implants. Those have come far since I started studying—it’s very impressive, and I hope that they continue to get better and better.

What would you like to see change in dentistry in the next 10 years?

I’d like to see more teamwork from professionals and colleagues in other practices. Building a good network and team is important in this industry.

Describe the most successful or rewarding experience in your professional life.

When I strike up a good relationship with my patient and I’m able to work well with them to get a clear picture of what they want their results to be, and then obviously achieving that result.

Are you involved in any organisations or societies?

I work at the Navy School, and at a private health clinic when I’m not at the practice.

What are your interests outside of dentistry?

I once took an academic course that gave you voice-over training, to allow you to do voice acting for different kinds of media. I also like to follow sports and I enjoy cooking.

What are your favourite films?

Back to the Future, The Godfather and Groundhog Day.

What type of music do you listen to?

I listen to rock and classical music, and I like ballads as well.

What would you like to see in future issues of DentaltownUK?

Even though it’s UK-based, I’d like to see more international workshops at some point.I think you’d reach a wider audience.

ABOUT THE TEAM

Do you work alongside other dentists?

I don’t work with any other dentists; it’s just my assistant and I. However, she is also an hygienist.

What do you think are the most important things about your team?

The most important thing to me about my team and I is that we all trust each other, and that there’s a good feeling between us all.

Do you have team meetings? If so, what format do they take?

We have three or four big meetings spaced out over the year, where we usually host a barbecue and we all have a great time!

What did you do for your last staff Christmas night out?

We all met up at night and ordered in pizzas.

ABOUT THE PRACTICE

How is your practice laid out— what is the workflow like?

Bright Smile is quite a unique clinic and our workflow, like that of most practices, varies with each day. It really does depend on the day what the atmosphere is going to be like!

Do you play music in the practice? If so, what do you play?

We play music all day. We try to tailor what we play to fit our patients’ age and energy—it can make them feel more relaxed and comfortable while they’re in the chair.

Do you play music in the practice? If so, what do you play?

Each clinical area has relaxing and soothing music for the comfort and well-being of the patient.

What sets your practice apart from others?

We have a great level of communication in the practice.

How do you market your practice?

Mostly word of mouth.

What are you most proud of about your practice?

I’m most proud of the fact that we are honest and realistic with all our patients. We lay out all of the treatment plan honestly to patients and give them a realistic outcome. This means we meet their expectations every time.