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How should I go about shadowing professionals?

I am currently a sophomore in high school and I am highly interested in dental hygiene. I am wondering how I should apply or contact some dental hygienist for a day to shadow their job.

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Dina R.’s Answer

Ooooh, I love this question and think it is so necessary to gain insight into your future profession.

Sometimes cold calling or e-mailing is your best bet. You can quite literally search for "dentists near me" on Google Maps using your zip code and then give a call to the places asking if they allow students to observe/shadow.

If they agree, they might ask you to sign a confidentiality waiver or something similar since you're in a healthcare setting and have to be HIPAA compliant, so be prepared for that.

If they don't allow anyone to observe/shadow, consider asking them for an informational interview instead where you can ask questions and get an idea of what the position/job entails without being onsite. If you have the means, it might be nice to offer to meet them for coffee, but I'm hoping they work with you out of the goodness of their hearts and see it as a way of helping someone who wants to be a future colleague of theirs.
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Marisel Rosa’s Answer

Hi Khai,

If you already have a dentist, contact them to express your interest in dentistry and ask about shadowing opportunities. If not, try reaching out to a local dental office. It's best to visit in person so they can see who you are. Bring a letter with your name and mobile number, explaining your interest in dentistry and your request to shadow. This should help you get started.
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Arnaaz’s Answer

You can observe dentists and dental hygienists by politely reaching out. Start by contacting the office, then follow up personally. Always present yourself with confidence and professionalism.
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Linda’s Answer

A connection is best. I recently had to do some shadowing for my doctorate and had bronchitis, so I tried e-mailing; no one replied. I had to start calling in between coughing fits. You have to talk human to human and be prepared for rejection. It's not personal; many offices have been burned by people not taking it seriously. I shadowed at a dental office that I happened to reach, and they had done my crown years prior; it tends to go easier than physicians who see many with a vague interest in medical school. Always remember that the person on the phone is the gatekeeper; part of their job is to protect the professionals from hassles. If they like you, they can help connect you. Good luck :)
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Dr’s Answer

Hey Khai! I love that you’re already thinking ahead and trying to gain hands-on experience. Honestly, Shadowing is a great way to confirm if dental hygiene is the right fit for you, it cleared a lot for me when I started out too. So I am gonna share with you what I did! The How you can go about it!

1. Start with Research

Look up local dental offices (Google Maps, Yelp, or the American Dental Hygienists' Association website).

Check if they have a website—some might have info about student shadowing opportunities.


2. Reach Out Professionally

Call or email the office – Keep it short and professional:
"Hi, my name is Khai, and I’m a high school sophomore interested in dental hygiene. I’d love to shadow a dental hygienist to learn more about the field. Does your office allow student shadowing?"

If no response, follow up in a week. Persistence shows you’re serious.

3. Use Your Network

Ask your dentist at your next appointment. They might let you shadow or introduce you to a hygienist.

Check with school counselors or teachers—they sometimes have connections in healthcare.

4. Be Prepared for Requirements

Some offices may ask you to sign a confidentiality agreement (HIPAA compliance).

Dress professionally (scrubs or business casual) and bring a notebook to take notes.

5. Be Open to Alternatives

If shadowing isn’t possible, ask for an informational interview—a quick chat to learn about the job.

Look for volunteering opportunities in dental clinics or community health programs.

Good luck, Khai! Hope you get a great experience shadowing! 🤗

Dr recommends the following next steps:

Make a list of 5-10 dental offices to contact.
Prepare your email or phone script.
Follow up if needed. They forget a lot so keep this in mind!
Be professional, polite, and grateful
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