How to Become a Periodontist

Unfortunately, a person's gums are a part of the mouth that often suffers neglect. This neglect can cause serious periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. By becoming a periodontist you can enjoy a career that is very rewarding, using your expertise helping individuals to have strong and healthy gums.

Things You'll Need

• DDS or DMD
• License to practice

Instructions

1. Complete your undergraduate studies at an accredited college or university and obtain a BS degree. Although your major does not have to be science for your undergraduate study, you do have to complete the pre-dental science requirements. Those requirements include eight hours of biology, English, general and organic chemistry and physics.

2. Take and pass the DAT (Dental Admissions Test). The American Dental Association recommends that you take the DAT while you are still an undergraduate. Take the DAT at least one year before applying for acceptance into a dental school.

3. Submit an application for admission to an accredited dental school. Your application should be submitted at least one year prior to the date you would like to start attending the school. Include with your application letters of reference or recommendation, along with an official transcript of your undergraduate studies. If the dental school sees you as a qualified candidate to attend their school, you will be contacted for a personal interview.

4. Complete three years of specialized periodontal study with an accredited school of dentistry. These three years of study should be taken after completing your DDS or DMD.

5. Register to take the ADEX clinical license examination. Most states require a score of 75 or higher on the ADEX exam.

6. Apply for a license to practice periodontistry within your state. The license requirements will vary by state. See Resources for state specific license requirements. Once you have obtained your licensing credentials, begin looking for employment with other dentist practices. You can also consider starting your own periodontal practice.

References

• American Academy of Periodontology
• American Dental Association

Resources

• Accredited Dental Schools
• ADEX Examination Locations
• State Specific Licensure Requirements