Dental school duration?

So, I'm thinking about pursuing dentistry and I'm unsure about the length of time it takes to complete dental school. What's the usual duration for dental school in the US? Any insights would be helpful!

Dental school in the United States typically takes four years to complete. The first two years are often focused on foundational coursework, including subjects like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and biochemistry, as well as an introduction to dental treatments and procedures. During these years, you can expect to engage in classroom instruction and laboratory work, which helps you build a strong foundation in the basic sciences and dental practices.

The last two years of dental school are more clinically-oriented and involve direct patient care under the supervision of experienced dentists and faculty. Students begin to apply their knowledge to the treatment of real patients in dental clinics and develop hands-on skills in a variety of dental procedures, diagnosis, and treatment planning.

After completing the four-year dental school program, you will need to obtain licensure in the state where you plan to practice. This process typically involves passing a written and clinical examination. Additionally, some graduates also choose to pursue specialty training, which can take an additional two to six years of postgraduate education.

In summary, dental school in the US typically takes four years to complete. However, if you decide to specialize in a specific field within dentistry, additional years of training may be required.