Pathway to becoming a dentist after high school

Hey! So, I've been considering dentistry as a career path. Does anyone know the steps I need to take to become a dentist after high school? Do I need to major in a specific field in college or just focus on pre-dental requirements?

Hello! It's great that you're considering dentistry as a career path. I'll list the general steps you need to take to become a dentist after high school.

1. Complete your Bachelor's degree: While there isn't a specific major required for dental school, many students choose to major in a science-related field (like biology, chemistry, or biochemistry) because a significant number of pre-dental course requirements align with these majors. You can choose to major in any field, as long as you fulfill the pre-dental course requirements, which vary by dental school. Make sure to check the specific requirements for dental schools you're interested in.

2. Complete pre-dental course requirements: These typically include courses in general biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and sometimes biochemistry, microbiology, anatomy, and other science disciplines. You may also need to complete some courses in English, social sciences, and/or humanities. Some dental schools may require additional prerequisites, so it's crucial to check each school's requirements.

3. Gain relevant experience: Participate in extracurricular activities that demonstrate your interest in dentistry, like shadowing and assisting dental professionals, research, and volunteering in dental clinics or community health programs. These experiences will help you develop a better understanding of the dental profession and strengthen your application for dental school.

4. Take the Dental Admission Test (DAT): This is a standardized test required for dental school admissions in the United States. The DAT assesses your academic aptitude, scientific knowledge, and perceptual ability. You should aim to take the DAT during or after completing your pre-dental course requirements.

5. Apply to dental school: Applications for dental schools in the United States are typically submitted through the Associated American Dental Schools Application Service (AADSAS), which is a centralized application system. You will need to submit your college transcripts, DAT scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.

6. Complete dental school: Dental programs usually take four years to complete. During the first two years, you'll mostly focus on coursework, learning about dental procedures and techniques, and developing your diagnostic skills. In the final two years, you'll gain hands-on clinical experience treating patients under the supervision of licensed dentists.

7. Obtain licensure: After graduating from dental school, you'll need to obtain your dental license in the state where you intend to practice, which usually requires you to pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and a clinical examination administered by a regional testing agency or the state dental board.

8. Consider specializing: If you're interested in a particular area of dentistry, such as orthodontics or pediatric dentistry, you may choose to complete additional training through a residency program. This program usually takes an additional 2-6 years, depending on the specialty.

Remember to maintain good grades throughout your undergraduate and dental education, as dental school applications are competitive, and continuously seek opportunities to expand your knowledge and experience in the field, to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of dentistry. Good luck on your journey!