Dental Career Discovery: A Hands-On Journey

While the racial and ethnic diversity of dentists has increased over the last decade, the percentages Black and Indigenous dentists have remained low and the increase in Hispanic or Latinx dentists has not kept up with population growth.

The Dental Career Discovery: A Hands-On Journey program partners with local schools and community programs to provide engaging experiences through mentorship and hands-on workshops that ignite curiosity about dental health careers.

Delta Dental of Washington’s mission is that all people can enjoy good oral health, with no one left behind. But in this equation, several communities are being left behind when it comes to being able to choose a dentist from their own background.

So, what can we – a dental benefits provider – do about this? We’re traveling the state, giving young people, especially those from historically underrepresented groups, the chance to experience the dental field, in a hands-on, fun and engaging workshop.

"We are immensely grateful for Delta Dental's commitment to supporting our youth and promoting dental literacy. Your partnership has made a significant difference in the lives of these children and will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on their future endeavors. Our parents, staff and volunteers are deeply appreciative of Delta Dental’s commitment to educating and uplifting our community through Youth Dental Literacy programs."

Our inclusive workshop gives kids from first grade to high school access to our staff and volunteers as they demonstrate the importance of oral health. Students learn how to care for their teeth properly before discussing the difference between high-sugar snacks and low-sugar snacks. Then, the classrooms get transformed into a makeshift dental clinic! The students discover the dental profession by doing sealants, composites, and impressions.

These practical learning experiences and programs offering post-secondary pathway opportunities provide scholars from underserved communities with the immediate learning of transferable skills and the confidence to pursue career pathways in professions where people of color and BIPOC communities are underrepresented.

The exposure to dentistry through the Delta Dental Discovery Program has ignited a passion in our scholars, many of whom had previously viewed such careers as unattainable. I believe empowerment, opportunity, and access are crucial in supporting scholars in achieving their post-secondary goals in dentistry or other professional fields.

Our vision is to inspire the next generation of dental professionals and revolutionize the oral health industry with innovative, diverse future dental professionals.

Get Involved

Read more about our past programs in the community. Are you an educator interested in bringing our program to your students? Contact us to learn more.

Mentorship and volunteering opportunities are available.