Do You Need to Go to a Dental School to Qualify as a Dentist in the United States?

Those who dream of becoming a dentist will need to know what type of schooling and qualifications it takes.  In order to become a dentist in the United States, you are going to have to do quite a bit of schooling.  Dental schools will certainly be in your future, but if you expect to get into one of the best schools, you have to make sure that you keep your grades high.

Dental school certification is usually required if you are going to go for a degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD).  You will also have to take tests in the state where you are trying to become a dentist in order to get your license.  If you have the drive to go through with the schooling and you are willing to put in the hard work, you can become a dentist in just a few years.

When you are in college, you are going to want to look at all of the available dentist schools and choose the one that is right for you.  Check with the American Dental Association to find four-year dental schools that they recommend. 

In order to get into the school, you are going to have to pass the Dental Admissions Test.  During your first two years in school, you will spend time in the class and in the lab.  The remaining two years are going to be clinical, where you can learn firsthand.  You can pursue and obtain the dream as long as you are prepared for the hard work!