Attention:
The Colorado Workers' Compensation Act requires student interns to be covered by workers' compensation insurance. Ohio State is not able to add students to its institutional workers' compensation policy. Prior to scheduling an externship in Colorado, students must work with their externship supervisor to ensure that Colorado worker's compensation insurance requirements will be met. Proof of worker's compensation coverage must be sent to Dr. Emma Read for verification. If a student is not covered by a worker's compensation policy for their externship they will not earn academic credit for the rotation. For more information, visit: https://odee.osu.edu/departments/state-authorization#state-authorization-resources
A student at our dentistry surgical center will gain hands-on exposure to the daily operations of a high-volume veterinary dental and surgical facility. They will observe and assist (when able) with patient intake, anesthesia preparation and monitoring, dental radiographs, cleanings, extractions, instrument sterilization, and post-operative recovery. Students will learn proper safety and sanitation protocols, patient handling techniques, and the importance of accurate medical record keeping. They will also see how the clinical team communicates with clients, coordinates surgical schedules, and works collaboratively to provide efficient, compassionate care. Overall, the experience is designed to build practical skills, deepen understanding of veterinary dentistry and anesthesia, and provide real-world insight into a professional surgical environment.
Our dentistry/surgical center is staffed by experienced veterinary professionals including licensed veterinarians, a traveling boarded surgeon (he does the complicated operations when needed), credentialed veterinary technicians, and trained support staff who are proficient in anesthesia monitoring, dental radiography, surgical assisting, and patient recovery. The team works in a collaborative, teaching-friendly environment that allows students to observe real-time decision making, case management, and high standards of patient care.
The facility is equipped with modern dental and surgical technology, including digital dental radiography, ultrasonic scalers, high- and low-speed dental units, anesthesia machines with multi-parameter monitoring, surgical lighting, sterilization equipment, and a full range of dental and surgical instruments. Dedicated areas for surgery, dentistry, instrument sterilization, and patient recovery support safe and efficient workflow.
Educational resources include direct mentorship from clinical staff, exposure to diverse case types, and opportunities to observe client communication, treatment planning, and medical record documentation. The combination of skilled personnel, up-to-date equipment, and a structured clinical environment provides students with a comprehensive and practical learning experience.
Students are expected to maintain a consistent and professional presence during their scheduled rotation, typically attending agreed-upon weekday hours that align with the center’s surgical and dental caseload. Punctuality, appropriate attire, and adherence to all safety and sanitation protocols are required at all times. The experience is primarily observational at the beginning, with opportunities to provide supervised support as skills and comfort level increase. Support activities may include patient restraint, room preparation and cleanup, instrument organization, monitoring assistance under direct supervision, and observing anesthesia, dental procedures, and recovery processes. Students are expected to ask questions, demonstrate initiative, respect client and patient confidentiality, and follow staff direction. The overall goal is active engagement, professionalism, and a willingness to learn within a fast-paced clinical environment.
3840 Wadsworth Boulevard
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
United States