How long is dentist schooling?

Hey, I'm a junior thinking about pursuing dentistry as a career. Can anybody tell me how long dental school usually takes and if there's any specific education path I should follow? Thanks!

Dentistry is a great career choice, and I'm happy to help you understand the educational path! In general, the journey to becoming a dentist takes about 8 years after high school. Here's a breakdown:

Undergraduate studies (4 years): Most students start by obtaining a bachelor's degree, often majoring in a science-related field such as biology or chemistry. While you don't have to major in science, you will need to complete certain prerequisites (such as biology, chemistry, and physics courses) to be eligible for dental school.

Dental school (4 years): After completing your undergraduate degree, you'll attend dental school for another four years. The first two years typically consist of classroom and laboratory-based learning, while the last two years involve clinical practice and hands-on experience treating patients under the supervision of licensed dentists. Upon completing dental school, you'll receive a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. Both degrees are equivalent and allow you to practice as a general dentist.

Licensing: After finishing dental school, you'll need to pass the National Board Dental Examinations (NBDE) and a state-specific clinical examination in order to obtain a license to practice in your state.

Optional postgraduate training: Some dentists choose to specialize in areas such as orthodontics, periodontics, or oral surgery by completing a postgraduate residency program which typically lasts 2-6 years, depending on the specialization.

In summary, the dental school itself usually takes four years, but you'll need a four-year undergraduate degree first. You can also pursue additional training if you're interested in specializing. As you plan your pre-dental education, make sure to complete the required prerequisite courses and maintain a strong GPA to maximize your chances of securing a spot in a dental school. Good luck!