How to Become a Dentist

Is your child thinking about entering the dentistry field some day? Are you?  Before entering the field, students must undergo years of training before practicing, and if you’ve been in any dentist’s chair recently–you can understand why! If you hope to become a dentist you must follow these steps:

1. First you must determine whether you have the general personality traits needed by a dentist. An aptitude in science as well as strong manual dexterity and communication skills are needed.
2.  While you are in high school you must take the necessary sciences courses and do very well. These courses include chemistry, biology, physics, math and health.
3.  Obtain a bachelor’s degree that includes the required science course load needed to apply for dental school; many undergraduates choose a science major.
4.  Next, you must pass the DAT or Dental Admissions Test. The test does require a fee a scheduling a date to take the test at a Prometric Test Center. Visit the ADA for more information.
5. Once you have passed the DAT you must apply for admission to a dental school. Quality schools have been accredited by the ADA’s Commission on Dental Accreditation.  Make sure to have high marks in your undergraduate degree!
6. Next, you need to attend dental school for approximately four years. The course load focuses on anatomy, microbiology, biochemistry, and physiology in the classroom and lab.
7. During your final two years of dental school you must get a job working under the supervision of a working dentist.
8. Graduate with a degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD).
9. You must then complete your states requirements for obtaining a license to practice. This typically entails passing a series of tests including the National Board Dental Examinations.
10. Obtain a license in one of 9 specialties.  There are several different fields in dentistry including: orthodontics, oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, endodontics, periodontics, oral radiology, dental public health and oral pathology.
11. Becoming a specialist requires at least two years of post-graduate education for at least 2 years and completion of a residency in your required state.
12.  Begin work as a dentist in a private practice or partnership. After several years of schooling and experience you are ready to start helping your community!