Pre-Dental Clinical Immersion
Oral Surgery, Implant Dentistry & Prosthetic Rehabilitation
Through the Health Science Studies Signature Pre-Dental Clinical Immersion Experience, students have the opportunity to earn course credit through a semester-long internship experience at The Denture Gallery in Waco, Texas. Students gain meaningful exposure to oral surgery, implant dentistry, removable prosthodontics, and patient-centered dental care while learning from experienced dental professionals.
During the immersion experience, students observe the continuum of dental treatment from patient consultation and diagnosis through surgical treatment, healing, prosthetic rehabilitation, and follow-up care. This longitudinal approach provides a deeper understanding of dentistry than traditional short-term shadowing opportunities.
Clinical Mentor
Jayesh S. Patel, DDS, FICOI, FAAIP, FICD
Owner, The Denture Gallery
Dr. Patel provides comprehensive dental care with a focus on oral surgery, implant dentistry, and prosthetic rehabilitation. Through mentorship, case discussions, and clinical observation, students gain insight into the scientific, technical, and professional responsibilities associated with modern dental practice.
Program Goals
- Observe comprehensive patient evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment planning.
- Gain exposure to oral surgery, implant dentistry, and prosthetic rehabilitation procedures.
- Learn principles of patient communication, informed consent, infection control, and patient safety.
- Develop an understanding of interdisciplinary dental care and private practice operations.
Outcomes
Students who complete this experience will gain a deeper understanding of comprehensive dental care, clinical decision-making, patient communication, professionalism, and the realities of practicing dentistry while exploring their readiness for dental school and the profession.
Application Information
Program Dates
Spring 2027
Application Deadline
September 25, 2026
Program Location
The Denture Gallery
Waco, Texas
Qualifications
- Health Science Studies student interested in dentistry
- Earned 60+ semester hours
Additional Details
- Students typically participate one half-day per week over a 10-15 week semester.
- Participation is subject to patient consent and all applicable HIPAA and clinical policies.
- Limited to 1 Student.
- Applications may be reviewed jointly by Baylor University and the clinical mentor.
- Selected students will be notified of their acceptance via email.
- If selected, the applicant will complete an internship application in Canvas: HHPR Internship Preparation.