My eldest son Brandon was accepted at the Indiana University School of Denistry. Classes started for him in early July, however the school conducted their ‘White Coat’ ceremony in early August.

 This ceremony is a somewhat new tradition for the school. The speakers explained the tradition of the white coat. The program warmly welcomed the class of 2013. I recalled what the white coat signifies for me in the practice of medicine and what it means to the families and patients we see. Interestingly, it is rare to see a health care profession wearing a white coat in practice. It was strongly suggested to these new dental students that they place this symbol of their dedication where they can see it every day to remind them of their oath, to remind them of the high esteem that the community places them, and to remind them of their responsibility to their patients.