The Most Advanced Level of the Dental Profession

Dentists have PhDs. Dentists need a DDS or DMD to practice (DMD). Most doctoral programs require a bachelor's degree, but dentists don't need a major. Dr. Khuong Nguyen advised that starting dental school preparation early to meet prerequisites and perform well on standardized tests.

High school biology, chemistry, physics, and health science classes lay the groundwork for dental school. Dental students study biochemistry, physiology, and microbiology in their first two years. Most dentists operate in private practices. Many dentists pursue residency and speciality training. Endodontics, oral and maxillofacial pathology, pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, and prosthodontics.

Specialists earn more than regular dentists and can open or buy a practice. Postdoctoral research, academics, and study are additional options. Dental public health, endodontics, oral and maxillofacial radiography, surgery, orthodontics, periodontics, and prosthodontics are the 12 dental specialties in the US. Each specialty's board certifies doctors and demands additional training.

Dental school takes eight years full-time for bachelor's degree holders. Some graduates select a second degree, usually a combined bachelor's and PhD program, to graduate faster. Doctoral dentistry education is the most rigorous. Universities worldwide grant dental PhDs for research. It's hard, but it's faster than a DMD.

Depending on your location and school, a dental doctorate can be expensive. In-state tuition costs less than out-of-state or private tuition. Online or hybrid degrees are cheaper than on-campus degrees. Most programs offer non-repayable grants or fellowships to cover expenses. Loans from some schools are a last resort because they have hefty interest rates and add to your debt. Most dentists need a bachelor's degree and national and state exams to practice. These exams will determine your dental eligibility in the US or your home country.