Tips for asking my dentist to shadow/volunteer??

[ballislife]

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I recently went to my dentist for a teeth cleaning during the visit I asked him a few questions about his education background, life as a dentist and the circumstances that have to be overcome for left hand dentists (the way the patient seats were oriented seemed to have only fit a right handers). I told him a bit about myself, I was ambidexterous, was thinking about dentistry in my future. I planned on asking him if I could shadow him, but I never really quite found the right opportunity and flaked out. I have another appointment coming up for a filling (is it bad for pre dents to have cavities???), and figured this is my second chance on asking. Do I just blurt it out to him?? Talk to the receptionship or a hygienist beforehand?? Ask for his email and further our relationship? Any tips or stories about asking dentists to shadow and how you went about it would be greatly appreciated. This guy has been my family dentist for 5+ years and although he was never the friendlist/nicest guy I am sure he'd allow me to shadow him based on my past use of his services.

 

[jmh018]

If it were me, I would bring up your interest on dentistry again at your next appointment and then just ask if you could observe him to get a better idea of what being a dentist is like. Most dentists are just normal guys. My dentist was more than happy to let me observe him, i just tried to not get in the way. He liked being able to help me and ended up being a good reference for me. Don't be too nervous asking him. Picture yourself in 15 years being asked by a kid if he can observe you. I personally would be more than happy to help someday in the future.

 

[NAVY DDS 2010]

Don't be afraid! Just talk to him. Let him know you are really interested in being a dentist and that you would like to see if it would be possible if you could shadow him so you can get a better idea of the profession before you make the jump and apply. if he gives you the run around or tells you no, he probably isn't a person you want to shadow in the first place. Most dentists who care about our profession are more than willing to help someone as yourself with this important decision.

One thing in this profession you cannot afford to be is shy. You need to be able to talk to people. You need to learn to communicate. To me, I see two ways you can approach this. You can either wait until your appointment and ask him prior to your procedure or you can ask to receptionist if there is a time that would be good for you to come in and speak to your dentist because you have some questions.

Either way, don't befraid to just ask him.