Dr Tith Hong Yoeu saw a gap in Cambodia’s dental industry, with wealthy Cambodians and foreigners going abroad for everything down to routine cleanings. So he did something about it. “I decided to do my best to develop this field for Cambodia, and now we do not rely on dental services from neighbouring countries anymore,” he said.

Tith Hong Yoeu originally wanted to be an architect or an engineer, but he says that when he passed his entrance exam for dentistry school with high marks he decided to make it his career.

“I have overcome all the difficulties in this profession. I really enjoy being a good dentist,” he said.

To further develop his skills after graduating from the University of Health and Sciences in 1996, Tith Hong Yoeu wanted to get more life experience and also engage in some interesting activities that would help him raise the standards of dentistry in Cambodia. He attended a number of international scientific conferences, world symposiums on dentistry and seminars around the world.

“Being a dentist is not easy,” explained Tith Hong Yoeu. “Students are required to learn a lot about major subjects like mathematics, biology, chemistry and science,” he said, adding that geometry is also very important in dentistry.

“To be a professional dentist you need accurate judgment and be skilled in the art of treatment. We are practicing on the human body, we have the responsibility of someone’s life,” he said.

The 34-year-old is now the owner and head dentist of the Roomchang Dental Clinic, which recently became certified as the first ISO 9001:2000 dental clinic in Cambodia, boding well for the future of Tith Hong Yoeu and his self-made practice.

“It is never free and easy to get started, especially professional practices, but if we put effort forward and make a commitment, we will enjoy success in days to come,” he said.