Recommended Volunteer Observation
Dress and Conduct Code

To show our respect for the volunteer dentists who allow us to observe in their offices, we want to be certain that our dress and conduct reflect our professionalism. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated by all in the preventive dentistry program.

Conduct:

Be sure to set up appointments for observation well in advance.  Before the observation discuss appropriate conduct with the dentist and/or staff.  During the observation, be sure your pager or phone is turned off, that you do not eat or chew gum, and that you have not smoked prior to your visit. Allow the dentist to do the talking.  Modulate your voice and use appropriate vocabulary.  Be sure to thank the dentist and staff each time you visit.  Only one student should observe in an office at any one time.

Appropriate Dress:

Men:

• A solid-color or conservately striped dress shirt. (A tie is optional, but encouraged.)
• Dress slacks with a belt. (No jeans or cargo pants.)
• Dress shoes, loafers, or walking shoes. (No sneakers, tennis shoes, sandals, or opened-toed attire, please.)
• Long hair should be tied back. Refrain from wearing jewelry other than simple rings and watches. (Piercings should not be readily visible.)
• Dentists work in very close proximity to their patients, so proper personal hygiene is expected. (Because patients may have allergies, refrain from using scents.)

Women:

• Business attire.(A professional top, cut no lower than the clavicle. No see-through blouses. Undergarments should be worn, but not be visible.)
• Slacks or knee-length business skirts or dresses are fine.
• Since these are dental operatories we are entering, please refrain from wearing jewelry.
• Long hair should be tied back. Refrain from wearing jewelry other than simple rings, watches, or small (non-dangling) earrings. (Piercings should not be readily visible.)
• Dress shoes (maximum 1-inch heels), loafers, or walking shoes. (No sneakers, tennis shoes, sandals, or opened-toed attire, please.)
• Dentists work in very close proximity to their patients, so proper personal hygiene is expected. (Because patients may have allergies, refrain from using scents.)