Retirement

Bernadette Pilkington entered UWA dental school in 1974 and was one of the 3 women who completed their BD Scin 1978.  A member of the ADA for over 30 years and a practice owner for 40 years, it is worthwhile to celebrate her career and reflect on changes to the profession during this time.  

A talented student receiving the IADR Colgate Palmolive award in 1978, she was interested in orthodontics but decided on a career in general dentistry. She initially worked at Perth Dental Hospital including two years in Bunbury. In 1982 she bought her own practice in Mt Lawley and has treated generations of the community until her retirement this year.  Bernadette is a highly respected member of the profession and has contributed to the Dental Board of Australia since 2011,being appointed to the Board in 2017.  She is committed to continuing professional education and was an examiner for the final year DMD students in 2017 to 2020.  

 Bernadette has contributed to the ADA since joining as a student. She has been a member of the Aged Care Committee since 1976 and participated in ADA community projects including; Women and oral health, Oral health for busy lives and Cavity free futures.   She also won the coveted ADA pewter paper weight from the Bulletin’s clinical hints.  Early in her career she was the only woman in the room at ADA functions.  Feminisation of the workforce is one of the greatest changes to the profession Bernadette has witnessed.  A past president of the Sally Joyston-Bechal Study group and member of Women in Dentistry, she believes opportunities for women dentists have improved. Corporatisation is the other major change.  

Bernadette is a quiet achiever.  A practice owner and working mother who provided dedicated service to her patients while contributing to the community and her profession.  She was inducted into both the International College of Dentists and the Academy of Dentistry International in 2019. The brilliant career of this caring clinician should be recognised here at home.  When asked what the highlight of her career was?  Listening to and helping her patients and seeing their families grow.    

Photo Bernadette Pilkington