epq.. yes or no for dentistry?

Hello student room!!
basically. I am contemplating wether or not to do an epq as I am planning to apply for dentistry.
I am currently in year 12 and has the option to either do EPQ or volunteering for the enrichment slot in sixth form.
Against EPQ:
1- I've done some research online and apparently although EPQ is useful for uni application to demonstrate research skills, it isnt as valuable for clinical courses such as dentistry
2- the time period for and EPQ deadline often overlap with UCAT and interview season, and I am not sure if I can balance everything
3- assuming I struggle with balancing the work load, I think UCAT and A-level results are much more important that doing an EPQ, so it may be a waste of time since I may drop it soon anyways
4- a lot of universities that I am looking at dont give a reduced grade for EPQ anyways
5- I've heard people saying that EPQs are getting increasingly common so they dont stand out as much anymore?
6- i think maybe focusing on work experience (which is compulsory for dentistry) or volunteering or YPPG (which can show contribution to local practices) may be more useful?
For EPQ:
1- I can always drop a subject (probably physics out of physics, chem, bio, and maths) if it gets too overwhelming
2- it shows genuine interest in dentistry which kinda ticks off the box of one of the uni's requirements to show commitment and dedication?
3- it develops research skills and can show an all rounded character
4- can help with discussing in interviews
5- I can always try it out for a while and do work experience in the summer?
I realise this is kinda a long post and I struggle with getting to my point- I just really need to make a decision and theres too many things to consider
Thank you so much for reading all this and if you have any advice, please let me know!!