03 Oct How to Become a Dentist and Dental School Requirements
The journey to becoming a dentist is highly rewarding, especially when you finish dental school and start seeing your patients’ smiling faces. However, to join the ranks of oral health experts worldwide, you will need to undergo several courses and, of course, choose your specialty.
Before Entering Dental School
Before applying to a dental program, you’ll start with four years of undergraduate college with a heavy focus on science, chemistry, biology, and more. The ADA recommends joining the ASDA (American Student Dental Association) to better prepare yourself in high school and college on what to expect and what courses to take.
You should work closely with your college advisor or counselor to create a curriculum that meets all dental school prerequisites. A science degree is usually the best option. During your junior year, you should take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT) before applying to dental school. Successful applicants usually have a high GPA and great recommendation letters.
Four More Years
You’ll usually need to attend college for four more years to become a dentist. This takes you from undergraduate to graduate. During this time, you’ll have a more intense curriculum covering everything from immunology to health care policy. So, naturally, your courses will fully cover everything to do with oral health as well. This Harvard curriculum gives you an idea of what to expect.
By the time you graduate, you should be fully prepared to take your licensure exams.
Take Your Exams
Even after completing college, you have one more step – licensure. This process varies by state, but at the minimum, you’ll have to pass written and clinical exams and meet all educational requirements.
Once licensed, you can join an existing dental practice or start your own. All of the above have prepared you to become a general dentist, the type of dentist usually provides your regular checkups and routine oral care. However, if you want to be a specialist, which might include niche oral health services like orthodontics or periodontics, you’ll need even more education.
How Long Can It Take To Officially Become a Dentist?
Counting your undergraduate program, it takes at least eight years to become a dentist. If you decide to specialize in a particular oral health field, you may need 2-3 more years of education and clinical training. Specialty studies will vary, too, and include occupations like orthodontist, pediatric dentistry, and periodontist. The ADA officially recognizes 12 specialties, so you have plenty of options to explore.
If you’re curious about Dr. Robert Maxey’s journey to becoming a dentist, check out his bio now. And don’t hesitate to connect and ask him questions if you’re considering going to dental school.