About this experience
Built for high school and college students thinking about dentistry. Dr. Kim walks you through the clinic, then you observe two routine appointments from a set position, only with each patient’s consent, while she explains what she is checking and why.
After that you move to the lab, where you practice on dental typodonts (plastic teeth models) with real instruments, not on people. The day ends with a straight talk about prerequisites, the admissions test, what dental school costs, student debt and how different career paths in dentistry compare.
Your day
- 8:00 AM
Clinic tour
See operatories, X-ray equipment and sterilization with Dr. Kim.
30 min
- 8:30 AM
Observe appointments
Watch two routine exams or cleanings with consenting patients.
1 hr 15 min
- 9:45 AM
Practice models
Use mirrors, explorers and a handpiece on plastic practice teeth.
1 hr
- 10:45 AM
Meet a hygienist and assistant
Hear how their roles, training and pay compare with a dentist’s.
30 min
- 11:15 AM
Admissions and career Q&A
Prerequisites, the admissions test, costs, debt and specialties.
What’s included
- Scrubs, mask and protective eyewear
- Dental school application checklist
- A letter confirming your observation hours
Good to know
- Observation only. Guests do not touch patients or perform any procedure; hands-on work is on practice models only.
- Patients are asked for consent before you enter; if a patient declines, you step out. You will sign a HIPAA-aware confidentiality agreement, and no photos are allowed in clinical areas.
- Guests must be 15+ (under 18 with a guardian consent form) and free of cold or flu symptoms.
Your curator
Dr. Lauren Kim, DDS13 years in practice, owner of 3 officesDr. Lauren Kim bought a single-chair practice two years out of dental school and has grown it into three offices with 11 dentists and hygienists. She still sees patients three days a week. She mentors dental students on the business skills school leaves out.
View Lauren’s profile
