What to Expect at Dental Camp
The University of Washington School of Dentistry has teamed up with Washington Dental Service Foundation to host "Dental Camp" for adolescents from across the state. Each half-day session provides student “campers” with an opportunity to learn about oral health and dentistry by performing hands-on activities in the School of Dentistry’s simulation laboratory. This simulation laboratory is where student dentists, student dental hygienists and student dental assistants practice their skills before they begin treating real patients.
In addition to learning about the importance of good oral health, Dental Camp is an excellent opportunity for campers to explore the professional responsibilities of dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants and dental laboratory technicians. All of this learning and exploration takes place in a FUN environment that promotes teamwork! Each camper has their “mini-office” in the simulation laboratory, complete with an anatomically correct dental mannequin (patient), dental light, mirrors and other assorted dental instruments. Dental Campers will receive instruction from volunteer mentors on how to use the equipment and supplies in their mini-office to “treat” their simulated patient. We also use this setting to give the campers an opportunity to show off their knowledge about oral health in a Dental IQ competition.
Dental Camp Video (Quicktime 9mb)
Throughout Dental Camp the staff of volunteer mentors provide the campers with lots of assistance as they learn about oral health. These mentors are valuable sources of information and there are lots of opportunities for the campers to ask them questions during Dental Camp. In addition to having fun, it is our hope that adolescents participating in Dental Camp leave the experience with an appreciation of how important oral health is to general health, and if they are interested in becoming a dentist, dental hygienist, dental assistant or dental laboratory technician, they know the pathway to realize their goal and that the University of Washington and the Washington Dental Service Foundation are there to help guide them through their journey!