My time at Cardiff – ‘Flossing It’

In this special edition of Bossing It – ‘Flossing It’, we spoke to some of our fantastic alumni community who shared their experiences of their time studying on Cardiff University’s postgraduate dental programmes. These specialist courses in Endodontology, Prosthodontics, Implantology, and Orthodontics empower clinicians to widen their expertise, tackle complex cases with confidence, and unlock new professional opportunities.

Dr Sasha Gracias (MClinDent 2025)

Sasha qualified as a dentist in 2020 in India. She completed the Master of Clinical Dentistry (Endodontology) degree with distinction from Cardiff University in 2025. She holds a membership of the Faculty of Dentistry from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and has also successfully passed the membership in endodontics examination by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. She currently works in practice in Newcastle, providing NHS and private dental care with a focus on endodontics.

My experience went beyond the classroom

My time in Cardiff was instrumental in creating strong foundations in understanding endodontic disease processes. I learnt how to tackle challenging cases with current best evidence to support my decision-making. Classroom and clinical discussions gave me confidence to take on complex interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary cases and assert myself amongst colleagues and peers.

There were always references to real-world implications of the practice of endodontics. I was trained by an excellent team of supervisors who guided me with their specialist insights and use of techniques and materials. This allowed me to develop independent technical skills in providing high-quality care.

I also made the most of the many opportunities for personal and professional development while at Cardiff University – from attending specialist conferences organised by the ESE and IFEA, to developing leadership skills as a Student Representative and as a Residence Life Assistant. The Cardiff Award from Student Futures and their personalised advice helped me to prepare for and understand the job market as an aspiring Endodontist. Overall, my experience at Cardiff equipped me with the clinical expertise, confidence, and professional insight needed to excel in my career and contribute meaningfully to the field.

Karrar Al-Kadhim (MSc 2017)

Karrar is an implantologist based in Basra, Iraq. Since graduating from Cardiff University with an MSc in Implantology, he has become one of the most recommended implant specialists in his region, focusing exclusively on implant surgeries. He lectures nationally, runs his own training courses in basic implantology, and is currently pursuing a PhD with a clinical component in the same field.

I gained more than just clinical skills

Completing the MSc in Implantology at Cardiff University (2015–2016) was a transformative step in my career. The programme not only strengthened my clinical skills – planning, placing, and restoring implants with confidence – but also equipped me with the ability to critically appraise evidence and publish my dissertation in a respected journal.

The training prepared me to perform advanced procedures, such as bone grafting and complex implant surgeries, which helped build trust among general practitioners who began referring cases to me. This foundation allowed me to focus exclusively on implantology, establish myself as a leading specialist in Basra, and inspired me to pursue a PhD with a clinical component at the same school.

Dr Jhenelle Black (MSc 2025)

Jhenelle is a Jamaican dentist with ten years of experience, and postgraduate training in Endodontics from Cardiff University. She has worked in multiple private clinics and is currently practicing at the Caribbean Institute of Endodontics in Kingston, Jamaica. Beyond clinical practice, she lectures undergraduate dental students in both didactic and clinical teaching, serves as an External Examiner at the University of the West Indies, and has organised dental outreach programmes to provide care for underserved communities in Jamaica.

Mentorship was instrumental for my success

Studying at Cardiff University was a transformative experience that strengthened by passion for Endodontics. The programme challenged me to push my clinical boundaries and inspired confidence in my skills. As one of only four Endodontists in Jamaica, my approach to private practice is shaped by the teaching and clinical workflow instilled in me at Cardiff Dental Hospital. I am deeply grateful for the consultants whose wealth of knowledge, clinical expertise and guidance enriched my training. Their mentorship gave me the confidence to manage complex endodontic cases and continues to inspire my growth as a clinician and as a teacher.

Aisha Ashukri (MClinDent 2025)

Aisha earned her Bachelor of Dental Surgery from Tripoli University. Following her passion for restorative dentistry, she pursued a master’s in Clinical Dentistry (Prosthodontics) at Cardiff University, where she refined her skills in fixed, removable, and implant prosthodontics. She has completed the specialty exit examination in Prosthodontics from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and has presented posters at national and international conferences. Aisha is a dedicated clinician who combines clinical expertise with an evidence-based multidisciplinary approach to deliver predictable and aesthetically satisfying outcomes.

My time at Cardiff taught me the “why”

My time at Cardiff University was a real turning point in my career. The master’s in Clinical Dentistry (Prosthodontics) pushed me to think beyond routine cases and really understand the “why” behind every decision. Working in the university dental hospital taught me how to manage complex cases with confidence and collaborate effectively. The evidence-based approach, through journal clubs, research projects, and case presentations, sharpened my clinical judgment and the way I communicate as a professional. That training gave me the foundation and confidence to sit my specialty exit exam with the Royal College and move closer to full registration as a prosthodontist back home.

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