How to Become a Cosmetic Dentist

Cosmetic Dentistry is general dentistry with the additional requirement of paying very close attention to the appearance and functionality of the dental work produced. Advancements in technology over the years have made it so that beautiful dental work can and should be available to each and every patient. This has many benefits which most notably includes the enhancement of a patient’s self-esteem. If you have an eye for detail and are interested in becoming a Cosmetic Dentist, the following guide will help set you on your way.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Study hard in high school. Admission into a good college and dental school is very competitive. Your GPA, ACT / SAT scores and involvement in extra-curricular activities are the main things colleges look at when considering admission into their program.

2. Expect to spend 4 years in an undergraduate program. Most dental students have completed four years of college. While majoring in a science is not required, different dental schools have different preferred admission requirements. Check the requirements of the school you wish to attend and plan your coursework around the requirements necessary.

3. Take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT) the no later than the year before you wish to enroll in Dental School. The completion of at least one year of college-level biology and organic chemistry is recommended before taking the DAT.

4. Apply for admission into the dental school(s) of your choice.

5. Spend four years in an accredited dental college. The first two years consist of classroom and lab courses. The final two consist of clinical work that is performed under the supervision of licensed dentists.

6. Apply to take the licensing examination after you have graduated. Each state has different requirements before granting a license. Be certain you know and understand the requirements of the state you wish to practice in.

7. Seek additional training after graduation. Cosmetic Dentistry is currently not taught as a specialty area in Dental School curriculum. In order to become accredited in this area, Dentists must seek additional training after graduation.

8. Join the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) in order to seek support in becoming an accredited Cosmetic Dentist

Tips & Warnings

• Study hard from as early an age as possible if you plan to be a dentist.
• Don't be discouraged. It takes time to make a dream come true.

Resources

• Join the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.