Key takeaways
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) are the main degrees you can pursue to become a dentist.
- Advanced degrees like Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD) and PhD in Dentistry let you specialize or do research.
- Good grades and completing course requirements are keys to success for getting into dental school.
- Hands-on experience, like volunteering, internships, and working at clinics, can also help make your dental school applications stand out.
Do you dream of a career in dentistry? Becoming a dentist is a rewarding path that lets you help people maintain and improve oral health and build a respected career in healthcare. But to get there, you need the right education. Knowing the different degrees for dentists, requirements, and how to get experience can help you plan your journey forward.
Keep reading to explore the types of dental degrees, what schools look for, and tips to succeed so you can start your path to a fulfilling dental career.
Why do you need a degree to become a dentist?
Dentistry isn’t just about cleaning teeth or filling cavities. It’s a medical profession. To become a licensed dentist, you need formal education. You’ll learn the science, clinical skills, and patient care knowledge required to practice safely. A degree also shows schools and future employers that you are committed and prepared.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), there are over 200,000 practicing dentists in the United States. Plus, this career is expected to keep growing. This means that a degree in dentistry can prepare you for a stable, in-demand career.
While you might think you need a science major to get into dental school, that isn’t always the case. Many dental schools accept students from a variety of backgrounds, as long as you complete the required coursework.
What degrees can you earn as a dentist?
Most dentists earn one of two main degrees:
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM)
These degrees are nearly identical. Both provide the same education, clinical training, and licensure eligibility. The difference is mostly in the program name.
For students interested in advanced study, there are also specialized degrees:
- Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD): Ideal for those wanting to specialize in areas like orthodontics or pediatric dentistry.
- PhD in Dentistry: Designed for students interested in dental research or teaching at universities.
These advanced degrees let dentists do research, teach, or specialize in a specific area.
What do dental schools look for in applicants?
Getting into dental school takes preparation. Schools want students with strong academics and hands-on experience. Some key requirements include:
- Prerequisite coursework: Classes include biology, chemistry, physics (all with labs), and English. Some schools also require higher-level science courses.
- Standardized tests: Most schools require the Dental Admissions Test (DAT).
- Extracurriculars: This may include work or volunteering in dental offices. You can also join pre-dental clubs, do research, or go to workshops.
Even if your major isn’t science, you can go to dental school if you complete these requirements.
Dental schools look for students with strong science backgrounds and clinical experience. Completing prerequisite courses and getting hands-on experience helps applicants stand out.
What will you learn in dental school?
Dental school combines classroom learning with clinical experience. You can expect classes in:
- Anatomy and physiology: Understanding how the body and mouth work.
- Oral biology and pathology: Studying diseases that affect teeth and gums.
- Dental procedures: Learning how to fill cavities, perform root canals, and more advanced treatments.
- Patient care: Developing communication and customer service skills for working with patients.
Clinical rotations let students work with real patients under supervision. This can help you build confidence and hands-on skills before graduation.
How do you choose the right dental school?
Picking the right dental school is just as important as choosing a degree for this career. Here are a few questions to consider:
- Location: Is the school close to home, or will you move?
- Cost: What are the tuition and living expenses? Are there scholarships?
- Reputation: Does the school have strong faculty, research programs, or residency placements?
- Clinical opportunities: Are there enough patient-care experiences and internships?
Choosing a school that fits your needs can make your dental education more enjoyable and effective.
Can you specialize in dentistry?
Yes! Many dentists choose to pursue specialized fields after earning their DDS or DMD. Some popular specialties include:
- Pediatric dentistry (working with children)
- Oral and maxillofacial surgery (surgery on teeth, jaws, and face)
- Public health dentistry (focusing on community health)
- Orthodontics (aligning teeth and jaws)
Advanced degrees, like an MSD or PhD, let dentists do research, teach, or focus on a specialty.
How can you succeed in dental school?
Dental school can be challenging, but planning can help you stay on track. Consider these tips:
- Stay organized: Keep track of assignments, clinical hours, and exams.
- Manage your time: Balance coursework, lab work, and personal life.
- Seek mentorship: Talk to professors or practicing dentists for guidance.
- Get hands-on experience: Join volunteer programs or intern to build practical skills.
The more engaged you are, the more prepared you’ll be for your dental career.
Ready to explore dental schools?
Earning a degree in dentistry is one of the first steps toward a rewarding career. With the right preparation and dedication, you can reach your goal of becoming a dentist. Hands-on experience can help you along the way.
Use College Raptor’s FREE College Match tool to check out dental schools. You can find one that fits your goals, budget, and interests. Start planning your path toward a bright future in dentistry today!
