Preceptors for Access for All
Help students and our community.
We are looking for licensed dentists to complete rotations as part of our Access for All mobile rural dentistry and dental hygiene program. By serving as a preceptor, you are building a long-term, sustainable system of care for Métis and rural communities, while shaping a generation of dentists committed to equity and cultural respect. Students exposed to rural practice and Métis culture are more likely to return to these communities in the future, ensuring the ongoing delivery of care.
Description
This posting will be used to fill multiple positions. The position is excluded from the bargaining unit.
Position type
Paid part-time clinical contract
Hours
Up to a week placement
Closing date
Will remain open until filled
Locations
Mobile clinic for rural communities in Alberta
About Access for All
Access for All Dentistry ensures Métis Individuals will have access to dental care, without discrimination based on status, age, gender, heritage, or dental insurance coverage.
Oral health is a fundamental component of overall health. Unfortunately, some Métis communities have limited access to dental care and may suffer the effects of poor oral health.
A student-led initiative composed of University of Alberta dentistry and dental hygiene student volunteers, Access for All Dentistry provides free dental and dental hygiene care to underserved Metis Alberta communities. By partnering with the Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) (now Otipemisiwak Metis Government), the team provides dental treatment by traveling to remote locations and setting up portable dental clinics in Métis Communities.
Position Duties
You will be part of a team responsible for providing meaningful and motivating learning experiences for our students that encourage discovery and citizenship.
You will:
- Supervise students performing clinic procedures on patients.
- Ensure the safety of patients and students by ensuring the quality of care and confidentiality of information are upheld.
- Provide expertise and advice on treatment options and modalities.
- Assess student performance in clinical skills and professional behaviour.
- Mentor students in restorative, oral surgery, pediatric, and preventive dentistry.
- Demonstrate clinical procedures.
Qualifications
Applicants should be:
- Licensed and in good standing with their regulatory body.
- Experienced in clinical practice.
Patient Testimonials
"It has been many years since my kids didn’t fight at the dentist. I appreciate the kindness and patience. It’s amazing to leave with happy children after dental work."
"I didn’t feel judged or looked down on… The students were so kind to me, I’m very appreciative for this experience."
Student Impact
Access for All Dentistry provides students with an experiential learning opportunity as they are exposed to the unique experience of providing treatment in Métis rural locations, while also learning about the Métis culture. Working with diverse demographics embeds a sense of social accountability and brings to light the challenges our underserved communities face when it comes to accessing dental care. Gaining this invaluable experience as a student increases the likelihood of students practicing in these remote communities in the future and ensures they have the skills necessary to serve Métis patients with care and dignity.
Frequently Asked Questions
The University of Alberta partners with the Métis Nation of Alberta to select five different clinic locations each year. Our mobile clinic will be set up at each location.
Placements are up to one-week commitments.
Clinics run between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
The U of A will provide instructor housing during the rotation.
Instructors are there to supervise, guide, mentor, and instruct dentistry and dental hygiene students.
Each instructor will supervise a maximum of five students.
This is a paid position with all expenses covered, including travel, accommodations, and meals.
Instructors do not need a private practice license. They can purchase an education and research license at a rate of $100 per month through the College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (this is a special reduced rate for our clinics only).
Apply Now
Applicants should complete the expression of interest form with their availability to apply.
Questions?
Reach out to express your interest or ask questions to Dr. Suzy Depledge at dent.outreach@ualberta.ca.
All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of inclusivity and respect, while endeavouring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.
The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.