All about SHADOWING

Cornell University Pre-Dental Society

April 19, 2011

Why do we shadow?

Purpose: to gain exposure to the dental field and have a clear understanding of what life as a dentist entails

It’s important to shadow dentists in different fields of dentistry to gain a diverse range of experiences.

However, it is highly recommended that you shadow a general dentist.

What to look for:

How? Observe dentists as they go through a routine day interacting, treating, and consulting with patients,

Also, observe the atmosphere in a dental office, the interaction between staff, practitioner, and patient.

Ways to Shadow a Dentist

1. At private dentist office2. At a hospital3. As a dental assistantSeeking a position as a dental assistant for the sole purpose of shadowing is counterproductive and should be avoided

Private Practice Dentistry

Try contacting a family friend, or someone you know personally (your own dentist!)

You can also contact a local dentist in your town. Introduce yourself and politely ask if you can shadow for a couple of days.

Dentists are almost always willing to help out the future generation!

Have your resume ready to be sent out (if asked)

Local Dentists

ENDODONTICS:

Finger Lakes Endodontics 2333 N. Triphammer Road 607) 257 0539

PERIODONTICS:

Cardoza, Thomas DDS 408 N. Tioga St. 607) 272 1080

Conte, John DDS 2333 N. Triphammer Rd. 607) 257 2300

ORAL SURGEON:

Bonniwell, Timothy 2377 N. Triphammer Road 607) 266 8600

Lewis, Jeffrey MD/DMD 200 E. Buffalo St. Suite 304 607) 277 7007

ORTHODONTICS

Hand, Stephen DMD 102 N. Tioga St. 607) 272 8550

Through Cornell

Cornell provides shadowing/clinical experiences for pre-dental students.

1) Externship Program through Career Services

During the Winter Break, you get to shadow a dentist.

2) FRESH Program Only for freshman; during spring break3) Urban SemesterFall/Spring OR Summer

Hospital Dentistry

A great alternative experienceUsually require filling out volunteer paperwork and interviewing – based on the hospital policy.

Specifically mention that you are pre-dental student

Interacting with residents You see a different side of dental work as opposed to private practices – population, procedure, etc.

Ask Questions!

Don’t just stand there and watch.Ask questions, keep notes, and take advantage of every opportunity available in order to understand all facets of profession from client billing to cavity filling.

If you get to know a dentist well enough, he/she can be an invaluable reference on your application.

Possible Questions

How did you become interested in dentistry? What can I do in college to better prepare for a career

in dentistry? Do you wish you did anything differently during

undergrad/dental school? What is an average day like for a dentist in private

practice? What’s the best part of your work day? What’s the worst part of your work day? What is the future need for dentists? How do you think any healthcare changes might affect

the dental practice? (If they are a specialist) What made you want to

specialize?

Keep Track of Your Hours!

There is no real requirement for shadowing But some schools DO require minimum hours of shadowing experience; others recommend it.