Pre-Dentistry

A pre-dental student is someone satisfying requirements (such undergraduate course prerequisites) with the intention of applying to and then attending dental school. Dental schools award graduates with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) degree. There is no difference between the D.D.S. and D.M.D. degrees. D.D.S. is the traditional degree name; D.M.D. is a newer name intending to minimize distinction between dentists and medical doctors (who have an M.D. degree) as dentistry becomes more integrated with other aspects of healthcare.

After graduating from dental school, dentists may immediately enter private practice or choose to pursue higher education. Post-graduate dental education includes the general practice residency (GPR) or an academic program training them in one of the twelve dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA). These specialty programs run from two to six year in length. Many lead to another degree upon completetion, such as a M.S., M.P.H., or M.D. Examples of dental specialties include orthodontics, endodontics, and oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS).

Preparation for dental school should begin as early as possible to allow time for completion of all prerequisites.

Here are some links to check out as you prepare to apply to dental school and/or if you are already in the process of applying!

• https://www.ada.org/en

• https://www.adea.org/GoDental/Application_Prep/The_Admissions_Process/Timeline_to_apply.aspx

• www.ASDAnet.org

  • Joining this association is a great step to take as a pre-dent!