Steps to Becoming a Dentist

A comprehensive timeline guiding you from high school through dental school, with all the essential information you need at each stage.

High School

4 Years

Build a strong foundation in sciences and develop interest in healthcare

Recommended Classes

  • Biology (AP preferred)
  • Chemistry (AP preferred)
  • Physics
  • Mathematics (through Calculus)
  • English (strong writing skills)
  • Psychology/Health Sciences

Key Activities

  • Join science clubs or honor societies
  • Volunteer at hospitals or clinics
  • Shadow local dentists
  • Participate in health-related community service

Success Tips

  • Begin exploring dentistry as a career early
  • Develop good study habits and time management
  • Focus on foundational science courses

College

4 Years

Complete pre-dental requirements while earning your bachelor's degree

Popular Majors

  • Biology (most common)
  • Chemistry/Biochemistry
  • Health Sciences
  • Any major with pre-req completion

Pre-Dental Requirements

  • General Biology (2 semesters + labs)
  • General Chemistry (2 semesters + labs)
  • Organic Chemistry (2 semesters + labs)
  • Physics (2 semesters + labs)
  • English (2 semesters)
  • Mathematics (Statistics + Calculus recommended)

Success Tips

  • Build relationships with professors
  • Continue shadowing and volunteering
  • Consider dental research opportunities

Extracurriculars & Experience

Throughout College

Build a well-rounded profile that demonstrates your commitment, character, and passion for dentistry beyond grades.

Dental Shadowing

  • Shows direct field experience (100+ hours recommended)
  • Demonstrates commitment to the profession
  • Observe various specialties if possible
  • Keep a detailed log of observations

Volunteering

  • Demonstrates commitment to service and community
  • Seek health-related and dental-specific opportunities
  • Long-term commitment is more valuable than short-term
  • Reflects empathy and compassion

Leadership & Research

  • Leadership roles show responsibility and initiative
  • Join pre-dental clubs (ASDA, SNDA, etc.)
  • Research shows academic curiosity and critical thinking
  • Can lead to strong recommendation letters

The DAT

6-8 Months Preparation

Standardized test required for dental school admission

Test Sections

  • Natural Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry)
  • Perceptual Ability Test (PAT)
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Quantitative Reasoning

Prep Resources

  • DAT Bootcamp (most popular)
  • DAT Destroyer
  • Kaplan DAT Prep
  • Practice tests and PAT generators

Applying to Dental School

12+ Months

Navigate the complex application process through AADSAS

Application Process

  • AADSAS (American Dental School Application Service)
  • Applications open May, due by deadlines (varies by school)
  • Apply early for best chances
  • Typically apply to 15-25 schools

Interview Prep

  • Personal Statement (explain your 'why dentistry')
  • Letters of Recommendation (2-3 science, 1 dentist minimum)
  • Academic transcripts
  • DAT scores
  • Extracurricular activities list

Dental School

4 Years

Intensive training combining classroom learning and clinical practice

Program Structure

  • Years 1-2: Didactic coursework and pre-clinical labs
  • Years 3-4: Clinical rotations treating patients
  • Summer research or specialized rotations
  • Comprehensive board examinations

Learning Outcomes

  • Oral anatomy and pathology
  • Periodontics and endodontics
  • Restorative dentistry
  • Oral surgery and anesthesia
  • Pediatric and geriatric dentistry
  • Practice management