From dental nurse to therapist
Highland dental professional Keira Leigh Matheson‘s journey with Clyde Munro
Local dental professional Keira Leigh Matheson is celebrating an important career milestone, transitioning from a dental nurse to a fully qualified dental therapist, now serving patients across three Highland practices.
Born and raised in Fort William, Keira, 31, began her career in dentistry when she joined M&S Dental Care in her hometown as a trainee dental nurse aged 19.
Reflecting on her decision, she said: “I left school at 18 and went to the University of Edinburgh to study biology, but it wasn’t the right fit for me, so I returned home a little unsure of my next steps. A good friend of mine was working as a dental nurse and encouraged me to apply for a position at M&S Dental Care. I was fortunate enough to get the job, and it turned out to be the best decision I ever made.”
Inspired by her new career, Keira dreamed of pursuing a future in dental therapy but initially hesitated due to the challenges of pursuing a three-year degree while balancing financial responsibilities. But the pandemic provided an unexpected opportunity.
She continued: “During lockdown, with reduced hours, I had time to really consider my next steps. I applied to the University of the Highlands and Islands, and I started my course in 2021. From the outset, Clyde Munro were incredibly supportive – offering flexibility and genuine encouragement, making it possible for me to balance work and study.
“It was brilliant to have the chance to learn the theory at university and then apply it at work, observing experienced clinicians and getting their advice. I wouldn’t have been able to manage it without Clyde Munro’s flexibility and encouragement.”
Keira graduated in June 2024 and began her role as a dental therapist two months later, now working across M&S Dental Care in Fort William, Glencoe Dental Centre and Oban Dental Care.
Transitioning from dental nurse to therapist has been both challenging and rewarding: “As a dental nurse, you provide chairside assistance, but as a therapist, you’re the one leading the treatment. It’s a big change, but I’ve loved taking on more responsibility. Clyde Munro’s therapy support programme ensures I never feel alone. There’s always someone to turn to if I need guidance.”
Keira is also passionate about showcasing the accessibility of dentistry as a career. “I started as a dental nurse with just my high school qualifications, training on the job through a local college. It’s a fantastic pathway for anyone who wants to get into the profession without committing to a degree right away. Dentistry has so many opportunities for growth.”
Keira is now focused on gaining broad experience across all aspects of dental therapy. While she is open to specialising in the future – potentially in children’s dentistry – her current priority is honing her skills and providing excellent care to patients across the three practices she serves.
She added: “Work-life balance has become more important than ever since the pandemic, and Clyde Munro really understands that. The industry has really evolved in recent years, and while it’s a demanding career, it’s also incredibly rewarding.”
Clyde Munro operates across Scotland providing routine and specialist dental services for NHS and private patients.
The group comprises more than 250 clinicians and 600 support staff and is committed to the recruitment and retention of talented dental professionals across the sector.
To find out more about the Therapist Support Programme and career development opportunities available at Clyde Munro, email joinus@clydemunrodental.com or visit the Clyde Munro Careers website.