7 Dental Internships for Undergraduates in the USA

The field of dentistry offers a rich blend of health care, patient interaction, and technical skill. For undergraduate students aspiring to enter this field, internships provide an invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience, understand the nuances of dental practice, and learn from experienced professionals. Here are seven dental internships in the USA that offer undergraduate students a chance to immerse themselves in the world of dentistry:

1. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) Internships: NIDCR offers various training grants and internships for undergraduate students pursuing dental degrees. These programs provide support to students who wish to pursue both DDS/DMD and PhD degrees, offering an annual stipend, tuition assistance, and additional training-related expenses. NIDCR’s commitment to fostering future dental professionals is evident in its comprehensive approach to training. For more information, visit NIDCR Internships.
2. International Medical Aid (IMA) Dental Internships: IMA provides unique internship opportunities for undergraduate dental students, offering the chance to shadow dental professionals in diverse environments. These internships are aimed at pre-health students, including those in dental programs, and take place primarily in East Africa. IMA internships are designed to help students gain a deeper understanding of oral hygiene and dental care across different settings. Learn more about these opportunities at International Medical Aid.
3. OHSU Research Internship Program: Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) offers a comprehensive research internship program focused on dental, oral, and craniofacial research. The program aims to establish clear paths to careers in dental research, particularly for students from rural and underrepresented communities. Interns receive mentorship from experienced researchers and participate in career development activities. For more details, visit OHSU Research Internship Program.
4. Pacific Dental Services Internship Program: Pacific Dental Services provides a ten-week, paid Summer Internship Program that offers real-world experience in various aspects of dental management and administration. The program is designed for motivated undergraduates pursuing degrees in relevant fields. Interns engage in hands-on professional experiences, learn from business leaders, and collaborate on group projects. More information can be found at Pacific Dental Services Internships.
5. DreamWorks Immersion Day: Although not a traditional internship, DreamWorks’ Immersion Day is an outreach initiative that brings high schoolers and undergraduates from low-SES communities to learn about creative industries, including animation relevant to dental representations in media. It’s a unique opportunity for students interested in combining dental knowledge with creative arts. Stay updated with DreamWorks initiatives at DreamWorks Careers.
6. Television Academy Foundation Internships: The Television Academy Foundation offers internships at top Hollywood studios and production companies, which can be an excellent opportunity for dental students interested in exploring the representation of dental care and health in media. These internships provide hands-on professional experience and insight into the entertainment industry. Check out the latest opportunities at Television Academy Internships.
7. Sony Pictures Internship and Trainee Programs: Sony Pictures offers a variety of internship and trainee programs in their New York and Culver City offices. These programs are ideal for undergraduates interested in exploring the intersection of dentistry and media, especially in areas like healthcare representation in film and television. Find out more about these opportunities at Sony Pictures Careers.

Each of these internships offers undergraduate students a unique perspective on the field of dentistry, whether through direct clinical experience, research, or exploring dental themes in media and entertainment. They provide a platform for growth, learning, and future career development in the diverse and dynamic world of dental care.