Question per shadowing

[dentalsailor]

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I am going into a dental office to shadow tomorrow and feel like the whole day is going to be weird.

I have worked in my dad's dental office (general dentistry, probably ~ 700 hours) so I know how to assist, sterilize, take impressions, and all that good stuff. I was told by the dean of a dental school around me that I need a letter of rec from someone that isn't my dad (understandably) and thus, my dad got in contact with another general dentist in the area and I am shadowing him tomorrow. Essentially, I just feel like it's going to be awkward standing there all day behind him watching him work.

Any thoughts / advice on making a good impression on him (besides being a good guy, flattering him and his office, etc) and such (so that he will write a letter of rec for me)?

 

[Glimmer1991]

Offer to help out! I volunteered quite a bit. I sterilized all of the rooms after we finished, helped change out the trash cans, seated patients, filed paperwork, etc.

 

[DRTigerJK]

I have heard (not sure if it's true everywhere) that students who shadow are not allowed to actually do any work. I guess you can help out here and there with little things but don't expect to do what you did at your dad's office.

I think trying to focus on the new Dr's technique and the way he runs the office would be a good place to start.

 

[Glimmer1991]

I have heard (not sure if it's true everywhere) that students who shadow are not allowed to actually do any work. I guess you can help out here and there with little things but don't expect to do what you did at your dad's office.

I think trying to focus on the new Dr's technique and the way he runs the office would be a good place to start.

This isn't true. You can certainly help out; however, you obviously can't play dentist, which isn't what the OP is suggesting. I'm sure your Dad doesn't let you do anything illegal, so anything you do at his office should be allowed at the office you'll be visiting (provided they're in the same state, as laws change).