Shadowing?

[syd_tha_kid]

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What are you guys doing while shadowing? Are you mostly just watching and taking notes or more?

 

[cacajuate]

I know you're new dude, but search before you post. All your questions have been covered before.


and yes you stand there and can take notes if you want to.

 

[Daneosaurus]

My dentist wants me to not ask questions in front of the patients. Tells me I can ask him whatever afterward.

 

[customx]

Each dentist may be different in how they would like you to shadow. I kept note cards in my pocket and wrote down anything that I found interesting or that the dentist happened to explain. The dentist I currently shadow dropped this on me: "The patient is a teenager, so why will we use glass ionomer sealants on the molars and resin composite sealants on the premolars?" Another question might be: "Why would you never want to use phosphoric or polyacrylic acid etch on a deep occlusal cavity?"
As you learn more, you may be asked to assist, sterilize instruments, do periocharting, break down the rooms between patients, or more.

 

[Gregor Wiesmann]

I shadowed a dentist last week........it was actually pretty chill. I just stood around and observed him doing his work, and we talked to each other frequently. He showed me his office, some restorative cases he had done, explained a little bit about reading X-Rays, and let me ask questions about anything I wanted to. Honestly, I felt a little bit intimidated walking in to shadow because I'm a high school senior, but it was a great experience. Just relax and be cool. Ask lots of questions, but don't cross the line(for example, saying "why is there blood everywhere?" when he is operating on the patient). Also, make sure you dress business casual. I wore gray dress pants, a white button down shirt with the sleeves rolled up(acceptable for spring/summer), a tie with a clip, and brown dress shoes. The only thing I would have done different during the shadowing is take notes! I forgot to do this, but I will be sure to next time. Hope this helps!

 

[docrogers777]

I have students shadow me in a Free Clinic in Los Angeles. This is a very relaxed atmosphere compared to my private office. I explain to the students as we do the procedures and questions are encouraged. The students get a chance to assist with suction since we don't have volunteers assistants. The shadowing students learn to set up the trays, chairs, clean and serialize the instruments. They all get to glove up and have a hands on experience. I haven't seen anyone take notes yet.