Karen is a 23-year-old dental nurse at Claremont Dental Practice in Manchester. She lives with her little boy Shea.

Name: Karen Healy-OConnor

Age: 23

Job title: Qualified dental nurse.

Town: Manchester.

Most recent workplace: Claremont Dental Practice.

Marital status: Single.

Any children? One little boy called Shea. He's two.

How long have you worked in dentistry? Seven years.

Why did you choose dentistry for your career? I was 16 looking for a job as I was unsure what course to take in college and there happened to be a vacancy for a trainee nurse at a local practice.

What do you like best about dentistry? Working with a variety of people and making a difference to a patient – it is super rewarding.

What is the most challenging part of your job? The most challenging part is always having to be ready for anything. One day is never the same as the next.

What do you like to do outside work? I love to spend time with my little boy and keep fit.

Tell us a secret. I hate sharing food. I'd rather buy you 10 bags of malteasers than share one of mine!!

What do you like about BDJ Team? Keeps you up to date and provides great CPD.

What three things could you not live without (besides people)? Domino's pizza, rum and of course a toothbrush!