What Subjects Do You Need to Take to Become a Dentist?

To become a dentist, a person needs at least 8 years of post-secondary education. Specializing in a certain field requires at least another 2 to 3 years of residency study. Looking at the dental school course of study can give you a good idea of subjects to take in high school and college to be successful.

High School

It's a good idea to take as many science courses in high school as possible when considering becoming a dentist. Biology and chemistry are most important.

College

Subjects to take in college that are required by most dental schools include anatomy and physiology, chemistry and organic chemistry, 8 credits of physics and 4 credits of math.

Dental School Science Courses

Dental school gears its science courses specifically to dental medicine. These subjects include anatomy, pathology, biochemistry, biomaterials, histology and microbiology.

Dentistry Courses

Dental students also learn the fundamentals of restorative dentistry, principles of oral disease prevention, function of oral tissues and structures, oral tissue trauma, physical examination and patient management.

Dental Specialties

During dental school, students are introduced to dental specialties such as treating diseases of teeth interiors, interpreting radiology images, dental issues of pediatric clients and types of gum disease.

Technical Skills

Aspiring dentists also become proficient in technical dental skills by practicing with high-speed tools and simulation devices.