If you're in school to become a Dental Assistant and need hands-on experience through an externship, or are required to complete hours before graduation, Cloud Dentistry offers an easy solution to connect with dental offices near you.
Let’s go over the basics:
WHAT IS AN EXTERNSHIP?
An externship is a short-term opportunity for you to shadow dental professionals, practice hands-on techniques, and experience the workflow in dental offices. Unlike internships, which are longer, externships focus on giving you quick, practical experience in the field.
HOW DO I GET AN EXTERNSHIP?
You can connect with offices for externships in two ways:
Offices reach out to you: Offices interested in hosting externs can message you directly through Cloud Dentistry.
You reach out to offices: You can also message offices that indicate they are open to externships. Review their profiles and ratings to see if they're a good fit for you, then reach out to discuss the details.
EXTERNSHIPS CAN LEAD TO JOBS
An externship is not just for experience—it’s a chance to build relationships and impress potential employers. Often, externships lead to full-time job opportunities, so make sure to connect with the office staff and leave a positive impression.
ARE EXTERNSHIPS PAID?
Most externships are unpaid, but what you gain in experience and skills is invaluable. If there is any payment involved, it is usually modest and reflects your status as a student. Make sure to clarify this with the office before starting.
PREPARE FOR YOUR EXTERNSHIP
Come prepared to learn by engaging with the staff, taking notes, asking questions, and helping with tasks like setting up rooms. Bring any required documentation from your school to track your hours, and ensure the doctor signs off on them. This experience will help you develop critical skills and build lasting professional relationships.
Externships are a key step in kickstarting your career, so make the most of them!