Dentistry offers you the chance to diagnose and treat issues affecting teeth, gums, and other parts of the mouth. You’ll guide patients on how to care for their oral health and make informed choices about diet that support strong teeth and gums.
When you pursue a career in dentistry, you’ll find a wide range of paths that challenge your skills and reward your dedication. Many dentists work as general practitioners, managing various dental needs. Others specialize in areas such as:
Starting your journey toward dental school begins with building a strong foundation in your undergraduate years. You’ll be putting together an application that reflects your knowledge, skills, and commitment. Your advisors can help you craft an application that stands out by highlighting your academic achievements and relevant experiences.
Hands-on experience is essential. Dental programs expect you to demonstrate your dedication through activities like job shadowing dentists, volunteering, and engaging in community service. Spending time in these roles shows your interest in patient care and your willingness to address healthcare disparities. Many programs encourage you to complete at least 100 hours of shadowing to better understand the profession and confirm your passion.
To succeed in dentistry, you’ll develop sharp diagnostic skills and excellent manual dexterity. Visual memory, good judgment about shapes and colors, and a strong scientific background will support your growth in this field.
You’re free to choose any undergraduate major that fits your interests, as long as you complete the necessary prerequisite courses for dental school. Common choices include Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Neuroscience. Working closely with your academic or pre-dental advisor will help you create a course plan that balances degree requirements with dental school preparation.
Most dental programs expect a minimum overall GPA around 3.0, but successful applicants often have higher averages, about 3.5 overall and 3.4 in science courses. Because competition continues to grow, committing yourself fully to your studies and maintaining strong grades is key to moving forward.
If you want to learn more about the future of dental careers, including job outlook and growth, resources from the Bureau of Labor Statistics can offer valuable insights.