Educational Programs

DENTAL EXPLORERS PROGRAM

<em>Left:</em> Dental Explorers use oranges to practice administering anesthetic shots. <em>Right:</em> Dental Explorers learn to make impressions. | DEREK TAM
<em>Left:</em> Dental Explorers use oranges to practice administering anesthetic shots. <em>Right:</em> Dental Explorers learn to make impressions. | DEREK TAM
Left: Dental Explorers use oranges to practice administering anesthetic shots. Right: Dental Explorers learn to make impressions.
DEREK TAM

The curriculum includes a variety of hands-on clinical exercises and lectures on topical dentistry issues. All participants are expected to attend all sessions of the program. The program is designed for students interested in applying for a U.S. dental degree.

 

If accepted into the program, there will be a $50 fee to secure your spot. No stipend is provided, and all participants are required to provide their own lodging, transportation and cover any parking fees and other personal costs. Lunch will be provided on the first and last day of the program.

 

Because the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC is a healthcare facility, all faculty, staff and students (including Dental Explorers participants) are required to agree and adhere to the school’s dress and behavior standards. These standards require a professional appearance and demeanor at all times. Non-complying participants will be dismissed from the program. Specific information regarding these standards will be provided upon acceptance.

 

The program will take place from Monday, July 20, 2026 through Thursday, July 23, 2026 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

 

The application deadline has passed for the Class of 2026 Dental Explorers. Please check back again next year.

Professor of Clinical Dentistry James Tom demonstrates hand positioning when administering an anesthetic shot into an orange | DEREK TAM
Professor of Clinical Dentistry James Tom demonstrates hand positioning when administering an anesthetic shot into an orange
DEREK TAM