Becoming a dentist can result in an abundance of professional possibilities. Besides private practice options, dental school graduates can teach future dentists, travel with international health and relief organizations, work in hospital emergency rooms, or conduct advanced laboratory research.
Choosing a Dental School
There are over 65 dental schools in the United States accredited by the ADA’s Commission on Dental Accreditation. Each program is meticulously assessed to ensure compliance with quality and content standards. Typically, DMD and DDS programs take four years to complete. Additional years are necessary for dental specialties such as Pediatric Dentistry and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. When choosing a dental school, factors to consider include:
• Grading system
• Geographical location
• Combination programs
• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Required laboratory work
• Community-centric vs. larger, clinical experience
Admission to dental school is highly competitive, but the application process is straightforward. In fact, many U.S. dental schools utilize the American Association of Dental Schools Application Service enabling you to submit one online application and send it to a variety of schools.
Researching Dental School Programs
Where you attend dental school is a significant decision requiring a lot of research. Start with the dental school guidebook from the American Dental Association to help you rule out certain schools that don’t meet your criteria. When narrowing down your list of dental schools, don’t rule out your ideal school right away, even if it seems out of reach due to the program cost or academic standards. It may end up being attainable with further research.
Completing the Dental School Application Process
Keep your options open and don’t make a quick decision. Before submitting your applications, make sure to narrow down your options to the dental school programs that best align with your goals and objectives. That way you can realize your dream of achieving a rewarding career as a dentist. The result is a sustainable work-life balance and competitive salary in the health care industry.
Keep Roseman University College of Dental Medicine in Mind
If you are interested in a career in dentistry, Roseman has a 4 year Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree located at our South Jordan, UT campus. The College of Dental Medicine (CODM) utilizes Roseman’s innovative Six-Point Mastery Learning Model, with courses organized in a block curriculum. Rather than competing with other students to achieve high grades on a “curve”, students work together and everyone is expected to achieve competency at a high level in order to progress through the program.
Students at Roseman CODM also experience a unique classroom setting, with interactive and immersive technology, and state-of-the-art equipment that allows students and faculty to connect using a variety of instructional techniques, moving beyond the traditional lecture format. Reimagine your future with Roseman University.
