If you’re a high school or college student thinking about becoming a dentist, you’ve probably heard about dental shadowing and dental internships. These two experiences can help you learn what it’s like to work in a dental office. But they are not the same. In this article, we’ll explain the difference that can help you decide which one is right for you.
If you’re ready to get started, you might begin by searching for a shadowing dentist near you to observe and learn directly in a real dental setting.
What Does Shadowing Mean in Dentistry?
Shadowing a dentist means you are watching a dentist work. You don’t touch any tools or treat any patients. Instead, you follow the dentist during the day and learn how they check teeth, take x-rays, talk to patients, and do dental treatments.
This is a great way to see what a real dental job looks like. Many dental schools ask you to complete a number of shadowing hours before you apply.
What You Can Expect During Dental Shadowing
- You will wear a lab coat or scrubs (sometimes).
- You will observe different procedures like cleanings, fillings, or exams.
- You will not be allowed to touch any instruments or talk to patients during treatment.
- You may take notes to help you remember what you learn.
This is helpful because you get to see how dentists solve problems and take care of their patients.
Dental Internships for High School Students
Unlike shadowing, dental internships for high school students often allow students to help with basic tasks in the dental office. You might work with the dental team and learn office tasks like scheduling appointments or preparing dental rooms.
Some internships may even allow you to assist dental hygienists by handing tools (under supervision). These programs are often more hands-on than shadowing.
What Happens During a Dental Internship?
- You may do front desk work like answering phones and booking appointments.
- You may clean instruments or restock supplies.
- You may receive basic training on dental equipment.
- In some instances, you may assist during cleanings (depending on the office rules and state).
Dental internships are an opportunity to learn about the patient side of a dental practice and the behind-the-scenes work.
Dental Shadowing vs. Dental Internships: Key Differences
Here is a simple table to help you compare both:
| Feature | Dental Shadowing | Dental Internship |
| Hands-on Work | No | Sometimes, depending on the program |
| Patient Interaction | Only Observing | May Help in Support Roles |
| Helps With Dental School Entry | Yes, often required | Yes, good experience |
| Time Commitment | Few hours to several weeks | Several weeks or months |
| Tasks Allowed | Watching only | Helping with small tasks |
| Age Requirement | Usually college or late high school | High school students can apply |
Mentorship Designed By Dentists for Pre-Dentists
Some dental offices have mentorship designed by dentists for pre-dentists, which means a student who is trying to become a future dentist will have the guidance of the dentist or dental team. These programs will provide students with a mixture of shadowing and learning, with some career advice as well.
During your time in these programs, you may even have opportunities to speak one-on-one with the dentist where you can ask questions like:
- What is dental school like?
- How do you handle nervous patients?
- What do you love most about your job?
Having a mentor is valuable because it gives you confidence and encouragement while you are pursuing your dream of dental school.
Why You Should Try Both
If you want to become a dentist, it’s a good idea to try both shadowing a dentist and doing a dental internship. Each one teaches you different things.
Shadowing helps you:
- See if you truly enjoy dental work.
- Learn about the flow of a dental office.
- Understand what dentists do all day.
Internships help you:
- Practice soft skills like communication and teamwork.
- Learn about how the dental office runs.
- Get experience for your resume or college application.
Doing both shows dental schools that you are serious about your future in dentistry.
Tips for Finding a Shadowing or Internship Program
- Ask your family dentist if they offer student opportunities.
- Talk to your school counsellor or science teacher.
- Search online for “dental internships for high school students” in your area.
- Contact local dental clinics and politely ask if they offer shadowing or internships.
- Furthermore, you can also connect with a career coach for dentists. They can help you plan your path, give advice and guide you to shadowing or internship programs that match your goals.
Be respectful and professional when you ask someone. Some clinics will require you to have a permission form signed, especially if you are under 18.
Final Thoughts
Both dental shadowing and dental internships are valuable ways to discover the world of dentistry and prepare for dental school. They will allow you to learn, develop, and prepare to attend dental school. Whether you choose to shadow a dentist or partake in the internship, both will allow you to practice skills as well as gain knowledge. A career coach for a dentist can also help you choose the right path and stay focused on your dental goals.
Call FutureDMD Today!
At FutureDMD, we offer professional coaching, and mentorship designed by dentists for pre-dentists. Our program helps students understand what it’s really like to work in a dental office. You’ll get real guidance from dental professionals who care about your future.
Call us today to start your path toward becoming a confident and skilled future dentist.