The afternoon of Jan. 11 was a significant dental school moment for the class of 2010, as 75 dental students received their white coat, signifying entry into the pre-doctoral clinic. 

Though dental students traditionally receive their white coat between their second- and third-year of dental school, the School of Dentistry’s new group practice structure has brought first- and second-years into the clinic for patient care much sooner than before and they need their identifying white coats earlier in the curriculum,” said Dean Jack Clinton, D.M.D.

Dental students were called to the podium by their group leader.

Michael Taylor, D.M.D. and Donald Sirianni, D.M.D., assistant professors of prosthodontics, were selected by the class of 2010 to coat students. Eight dental student legacies received their white coat from a dentist family member.

“The white coat is symbolic of your transformation today from learner to teacher, from student to practitioner,” said Denice Stewart, D.D.S., M.H.S.A., associate dean for clinical services. “At OHSU, the white coat is an important symbol of the service and care we provide for our patients. These are the changes we honor today.”

With their white coats, second-year dental students now will be included in the weekly group practice huddles and be responsible for some provision of patient care.

Representatives from the Oregon Dental Association, The ODS Companies, and the School of Dentistry Alumni Association were also on hand for the ceremony. Jeffrey Stewart, D.D.S., associate professor of pathology, was on hand representing both SOD faculty and the Multnomah County Dental Society (he’s the current president).