How to Become a Dentist

 

To be a dentist, you need to have the right mix of skills and attributes, from technical ability to interpersonal relations. The responsibilities of a dentist are diverse, and if you’re considering this career, you should start planning for it in high school by taking the most rigorous courses available in science, especially biology and chemistry, and in math and English. Consider advanced placement courses, which offer college-level curriculum that helps you prepare for the academic demands of dental school.

Dentists examine the head, neck and oral cavity, identify and diagnose disease using a variety of tools including visual exams and imaging procedures such as x-rays, and treat these problems through restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges, implants) and oral surgery. They teach patients good oral hygiene and help them maintain healthy mouths. Dentists also refer patients with underlying health problems to other specialists, such as endodontics or periodontists.

 

A bachelor’s degree and a Dental Admission Test (DAT) are required for all dental schools. Obtain practical experience by shadowing, working as a dental hygienist or volunteering in a dental office, and get involved with your pre-dental or other dental organizations to find out about upcoming opportunities. Work hard to excel in your undergraduate studies, and take all required prerequisites, such as college-level chemistry and biology and math.

After graduating from dental school, you must pass a state exam to become licensed. From there, you can practice general dentistry or focus on one of the nine other dental clinical specialties:

Whether you choose to specialize or do general dentistry, you’ll perform most of the same tasks in your practice. You’ll remove and replace damaged, broken or missing teeth, provide preventive services such as fluoride treatment and instruction in brushing and flossing and repair minor jaw trauma and injuries. You may prescribe medications such as antibiotics, analgesics and sedatives. You may also advise patients about diet, nutrition and tobacco use. And, of course, you’ll identify and treat oral conditions, such as gum disease, tooth decay, infections and tumors.