Ann Arbor, MI — September 14, 2010 — One hundred six first-year dental students at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry received white coats welcoming them to the dental profession during a ceremony July 30 at Rackham Auditorium.

The 106 students, 60 men and 46 women, represent five percent of 2,075 individuals who applied for admission.  Sixty-three of the first-year students are Michigan residents, 43 are nonresidents.  The average undergraduate grade point average of the dental class of 2014 is 3.46.

In keynote remarks Dr. Gary Jeffers, president of the Michigan Dental Association, urged students to stay focused on ethics and professionalism.  “These are the ideals of our profession that set us apart and help us gain respect in the eyes of the public we serve,” he said.  “Ethics is not something that is easily taught or learned.  It comes from within your heart and your soul.”  

Jeffers advised the first-year students that, although their dental education is just beginning, “learning never ends.  Life-long learning is a cornerstone of our profession.  Our patients must remain confident that their dentist always has their best interest in mind and remains qualified to deal with new information and treatment innovations as they may evolve,” he said.

After receiving their white coats, the dental students recited an oath promising to maintain high standards of professionalism, administer sound ethical judgment when treating patients, and pursue lifelong learning.