由 home-healthhaven 
Becoming a dentist requires a dedicated educational journey, similar to that of medical doctors and lawyers. First, aspiring dentists must complete an undergraduate degree that meets specific prerequisites before they can apply to dental school. This involves four intensive years of study beyond their undergraduate education. It’s a common misconception that simply finishing dental school is sufficient. On top of the educational requirements, dentists must also pass several exams and potentially undergo substantial additional training before they can start treating patients.
Although the path to becoming a licensed dentist is lengthy, it’s definitely rewarding. In fact, in 2016, dentistry was ranked as the second-best career in the U.S., with orthodontists taking the top spot.
**Taking the Test**
For college students aiming to become dentists, it’s important to know that the application process can last from a year to as long as two or three years. Juniors in college are advised to take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT) during this time, as it’s considered the optimal period to begin the application process. Before taking the DAT, students should complete any required courses in biology, chemistry, and other sciences.
**Attending Dental School**
Besides good DAT scores, dental school applicants need a solid GPA, experience shadowing a dentist, and strong letters of recommendation. A science degree isn’t mandatory, but most dental schools require applicants to have completed at least eight hours each of biology, chemistry, physics, organic chemistry, and English coursework.
Dental school programs typically last four years and are post-graduate, meaning you need to finish your undergraduate degree first. Graduates receive either a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or a DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry); though named differently, both degrees involve the same training and coursework. The first two years usually focus on classroom and lab work, while the last two are devoted to clinical training. Regardless of the specific path at each school, once you graduate with a DMD or DDS, you’re equipped to begin treating patients.
**Passing Exams**
Even after completing dental school, new graduates must pass several exams before they can practice independently. They need to succeed in a two-part written test administered by the National Board of Dental Examinations (NBDE). Furthermore, they must also meet their state’s clinical exam requirements; in some states, this can be substituted with a postgraduate training program.
**Considering a Specialty**
Around 20% of U.S. dentists specialize in fields like oral surgery, orthodontics, or pediatric dentistry. While specialties can enhance your career, they require additional training, which can add up to six more years of education and clinical practice.
**Emotional Demands**
Being a dentist can be both physically and emotionally challenging. Despite being one of the highest-paid professions in North America, it comes with its own set of stressors. Many patients experience anxiety or pain during dental visits, leading to frustration and occasional rudeness that can wear on a dentist over time. While you can’t control every variable, striving to provide the best care can help mitigate this stress.
**Cost of Becoming a Dentist**
The financial cost of becoming a dentist is significant and often burdensome. Dental school can leave graduates with an average debt of $250,000 or even up to $500,000 from the most expensive schools. When you factor in undergraduate debt, personal expenses like cars and housing, and potentially another $500,000 if you decide to open your own practice, the total debt can exceed one million dollars. This financial burden can be overwhelming, so it’s crucial to be fully committed and passionate about dentistry before undertaking this journey.