Requirements to Become a Dentist

Becoming a dentist has the basic requirement of at least 8 years of education beyond high school. Upon graduating from dental school, the new dentist obtains a license and can begin in general practice or choose to continue with another 2 to 6 years of additional education in order to specialize.

Considerations

An individual interested in becoming a dentist first must complete a bachelor of science degree, typically in a four-year program. Usually he follows a pre-dental or pre-medical track and majors in a science such as chemistry or biology. Next, the student obtains a Doctorate of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from an accredited dental school. Both of these are four-year programs, and although the titles are different, the degree is the same. Most dentists go into general practice for a period of time before deciding whether to specialize in one of the nine areas recognized by the American Dental Association.

Features

Admission to dental school requires previous coursework in chemistry, organic chemistry, physics and biology. The first year of a dentistry program focuses on sciences integral to the field, including biomaterials, oral anatomy, oral biochemistry, histology and fundamentals of restorative dentistry. The second year introduces the various specialties, while the third and fourth years mainly concentrate on intensive clinical study.

Types

Six training programs require an additional 2 to 3 years for certification. A dental public health specialist focuses on promoting dental health and preventing diseases in the community. Endodontists treat diseases inside the teeth and perform a large number of root canals to save infected teeth. Oral radiologists diagnose and manage diseases and conditions by interpreting radiology images. A pediatric dentist works with the special dental issues of babies, children and teenagers. Periodontists treat gum disease and the damaging effects to surrounding bone structure. Prosthodontists cover repaired teeth with crowns and replace missing teeth with bridges, dentures and implants.

Time Frame

Even more training is required for three other specialties, with 4 to 6 years of education beyond dental school needed. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons operate on the patient's mouth, head, and neck as well as remove wisdom teeth and place implants. Oral and maxillofacial pathologists provide consultation services for dentists and other doctors in regard to oral diseases and conditions affecting facial structure, and they perform biopsies and other diagnostic tests. Orthodontists and dentofacial orthopedists use braces and other devices to bring teeth and jaws into proper alignment.

Function

More general requirements to become a dentist include excellent manual dexterity, excellent communication skills and an affinity for science. People desiring to become dentists must be able to deal with many years of rigorous coursework before they can begin the career. They need diagnostic abilities, spatial judgment and a good sense of shape and color. They also need an ability to perform detailed intricate work on a continuous basis.

Resources

• More information on dental specialties.