4 answers
Tabtia
Student
Birmingham, Alabama
1
Question
Asked
362 views
What do I do? I need advice please.
Hello, I'm here to receive some advise and just motivation. I need y'all to be 100% real with me. I'm 20 and I really want to pursue my dream of going to dental school and being a dentist but I keep holding myself back and just plan on doing dental hygiene. The perquisites for dental school scare me so bad I feel like I'm not smart enough to go through that path. I've been doing community college and I feel like I'm wasting time switching majors just to avoid my dream. I just need some advise please. Also let me know what majors would be good for the pre-dental track.
4 answers
Rafael Diaz Montelongo
Consultant
305
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Rafael’s Answer
Hi Tabtia,
It's awesome that you are considering dental school, and feeling a bit scared is totally normal—everyone goes through it. I remember having my doubts while pursuing engineering, but persistence and self-belief were game-changers for me. Just take it step by step. I recommend looking into the dental school requirements and plan how to tackle them. Chat with advisors or dental pros for some guidance, from my personal experience, they are super helpful. Pick a major that excites you, like biology or chemistry, and remember why you are passionate about dentistry to keep you motivated. Do not stress too much about switching majors; it is part of the journey. Most importantly, take care of yourself and remember that you've got this!
It's awesome that you are considering dental school, and feeling a bit scared is totally normal—everyone goes through it. I remember having my doubts while pursuing engineering, but persistence and self-belief were game-changers for me. Just take it step by step. I recommend looking into the dental school requirements and plan how to tackle them. Chat with advisors or dental pros for some guidance, from my personal experience, they are super helpful. Pick a major that excites you, like biology or chemistry, and remember why you are passionate about dentistry to keep you motivated. Do not stress too much about switching majors; it is part of the journey. Most importantly, take care of yourself and remember that you've got this!
Michelle M.
Actress
2276
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Tabtia !
It may put you at ease to know that most dental schools do not require any specific major for your Bachelors Degree. I actually knew one dentist whose Bachelors was in Psychology and one had their Bachelors in History ! It is really in dental school that you're going to learn how to be a dentist.
My advice is to stay with and complete the dental hygiene program because once you get to dental school, you'll have some insight by having dental hygiene under your belt. Many community colleges have dental hygiene programs and then you can transfer to a different college to obtain your Bachelors Degree in any subject.
I assure you not to worry about this because whether you realize it or not, you are thinking about the best path to take. You will have some sciences through the dental hygiene program but they'll be focused on dental. Once you receive your Associates Degree in Dental Hygiene, trust me, you are going to know what to major in for your Bachelors Degree. Take things one step at a time because worrying will hold you back and as a neutral party, I can advise that you have nothing to worry about, sincerely. Take it step by step and live in the moment. You're only going forward ! Never doubt yourself or underestimate how "smart" you are. Look at how you actually do have a very appropriate plan with dental hygiene as the first step and being worried didn't allow you to realize it ! You can do it !
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best in all you do !
It may put you at ease to know that most dental schools do not require any specific major for your Bachelors Degree. I actually knew one dentist whose Bachelors was in Psychology and one had their Bachelors in History ! It is really in dental school that you're going to learn how to be a dentist.
My advice is to stay with and complete the dental hygiene program because once you get to dental school, you'll have some insight by having dental hygiene under your belt. Many community colleges have dental hygiene programs and then you can transfer to a different college to obtain your Bachelors Degree in any subject.
I assure you not to worry about this because whether you realize it or not, you are thinking about the best path to take. You will have some sciences through the dental hygiene program but they'll be focused on dental. Once you receive your Associates Degree in Dental Hygiene, trust me, you are going to know what to major in for your Bachelors Degree. Take things one step at a time because worrying will hold you back and as a neutral party, I can advise that you have nothing to worry about, sincerely. Take it step by step and live in the moment. You're only going forward ! Never doubt yourself or underestimate how "smart" you are. Look at how you actually do have a very appropriate plan with dental hygiene as the first step and being worried didn't allow you to realize it ! You can do it !
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best in all you do !
Thank you so much for reading and writing to me. Your advice means so much to me !!
Tabtia
You are very welcome, Tabtia !
Michelle M.
Steven Bornfeld
Owner, Mark and Steven Bornfeld DDS
46
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Steven’s Answer
I'll add a couple of thoughts, since no other dentists have replied. First of all, what prerequisites do you have right now? Generally you'll need 2 years of chemistry, one year of biology, one of physics. The physics will likely require you take calculus. Have you done any of those? For a lot of people, it's the organic chem that's the major stumbling block. My take is that it's not "if you're smart enough". Most of organic chem is not conceptually difficult. It IS a grind. So the issue is your ability to absorb a lot of information and regurgitate it. Physics and math to me are a bit more conceptually tough.
While you can have any major, so long as you fulfill the course requirements to get into dental school, it will be easier if you have a major in the physical sciences (chem or physics) or biology. How pertinent are these courses to the actual practice of dentistry? Unless you are engaged in research they're honestly not pertinent. And you will be getting the bio and biochem you need in dental school.
The most important thing to do is some honest introspection as to whether dentistry is really what you want to do. If it is and dental hygiene is a fallback, you may feel you have settled. If you like your dentist, hit them up for some advice. And if it's really what you want, go for it.
Good luck!
While you can have any major, so long as you fulfill the course requirements to get into dental school, it will be easier if you have a major in the physical sciences (chem or physics) or biology. How pertinent are these courses to the actual practice of dentistry? Unless you are engaged in research they're honestly not pertinent. And you will be getting the bio and biochem you need in dental school.
The most important thing to do is some honest introspection as to whether dentistry is really what you want to do. If it is and dental hygiene is a fallback, you may feel you have settled. If you like your dentist, hit them up for some advice. And if it's really what you want, go for it.
Good luck!
Eric Scott Gold
Entertainer
40
Answers
Newtown, Pennsylvania
Updated
Eric Scott’s Answer
Hello! Admitting your dreams and fears takes courage. Feeling overwhelmed about dental school is normal, especially with tough prerequisites. But remember, big dreams come with challenges, and you can overcome them.
Let's tackle those fears:
* Feeling not smart enough: Many feel this way about tough programs. Success isn't just about intelligence; it's about dedication, hard work, time management, and interest. Prerequisites build a strong science foundation, essential for dentistry. They're not impossible hurdles. Many successful dentists weren't straight-A students but were persistent and committed.
* Fear of failure: It's natural to fear failing after trying hard. But what if you succeed? Regret from not trying can be worse than facing challenges.
* Comparing yourself to others: Everyone's journey is different. Focus on your progress and celebrate small victories.
Here's how to move forward:
* Break it down: The path to dental school might seem huge. Focus on the first step. What can you do today or this week to get closer to your goal? Maybe research prerequisite courses, talk to a pre-dental advisor, or visualize yourself as a dentist.
* Talk to people: Reach out to dentists, dental students, or dental hygienists. Ask about their experiences and advice. Their stories can inspire and guide you. Connect with pre-dental clubs or organizations at universities.
* Focus on your strengths: Going to community college shows you're capable of learning. Identify your strengths and use them in your pre-dental studies.
* Ask for help: If you're struggling, use resources like tutoring, study groups, and professors' office hours. Seeking support is okay.
* Embrace the process: The journey to dental school will have ups and downs. View challenges as learning opportunities and celebrate progress, no matter how small.
* Remember your "why": Why do you want to be a dentist? What motivates you? Keeping your "why" in mind helps you stay focused and motivated.
Regarding good majors for the pre-dental track:
There's no "best" major, but many choose biological and chemical sciences. Popular choices include:
* Biology: Strong life sciences foundation.
* Chemistry: Essential for understanding processes and materials.
* Biochemistry: Combines biology and chemistry, relevant to dentistry.
* Human Biology: Focuses on human body biology.
You don't have to major in science to get into dental school. Complete required courses, and you can major in anything you like, such as:
* Psychology: Insights into patient behavior and communication.
* Sociology: Understands social factors affecting health.
* Business: Helpful if you plan to run a dental practice.
* Public Health: Offers a broader perspective on oral health.
Choose a major you're interested in and can excel in. A strong GPA is crucial for dental school applications.
At 20, you have plenty of time. Community college is a great start, and exploring different paths is normal. Recognizing your dream and pursuing it is a big step forward. Don't let fear stop you from what you want. Take it one step at a time, believe in yourself, and remember others have succeeded on this path. You can achieve your dream of becoming a dentist.
Start by checking prerequisites for your chosen dental schools. Create a plan, even a rough one, and take that first step. You've got this!
Let's tackle those fears:
* Feeling not smart enough: Many feel this way about tough programs. Success isn't just about intelligence; it's about dedication, hard work, time management, and interest. Prerequisites build a strong science foundation, essential for dentistry. They're not impossible hurdles. Many successful dentists weren't straight-A students but were persistent and committed.
* Fear of failure: It's natural to fear failing after trying hard. But what if you succeed? Regret from not trying can be worse than facing challenges.
* Comparing yourself to others: Everyone's journey is different. Focus on your progress and celebrate small victories.
Here's how to move forward:
* Break it down: The path to dental school might seem huge. Focus on the first step. What can you do today or this week to get closer to your goal? Maybe research prerequisite courses, talk to a pre-dental advisor, or visualize yourself as a dentist.
* Talk to people: Reach out to dentists, dental students, or dental hygienists. Ask about their experiences and advice. Their stories can inspire and guide you. Connect with pre-dental clubs or organizations at universities.
* Focus on your strengths: Going to community college shows you're capable of learning. Identify your strengths and use them in your pre-dental studies.
* Ask for help: If you're struggling, use resources like tutoring, study groups, and professors' office hours. Seeking support is okay.
* Embrace the process: The journey to dental school will have ups and downs. View challenges as learning opportunities and celebrate progress, no matter how small.
* Remember your "why": Why do you want to be a dentist? What motivates you? Keeping your "why" in mind helps you stay focused and motivated.
Regarding good majors for the pre-dental track:
There's no "best" major, but many choose biological and chemical sciences. Popular choices include:
* Biology: Strong life sciences foundation.
* Chemistry: Essential for understanding processes and materials.
* Biochemistry: Combines biology and chemistry, relevant to dentistry.
* Human Biology: Focuses on human body biology.
You don't have to major in science to get into dental school. Complete required courses, and you can major in anything you like, such as:
* Psychology: Insights into patient behavior and communication.
* Sociology: Understands social factors affecting health.
* Business: Helpful if you plan to run a dental practice.
* Public Health: Offers a broader perspective on oral health.
Choose a major you're interested in and can excel in. A strong GPA is crucial for dental school applications.
At 20, you have plenty of time. Community college is a great start, and exploring different paths is normal. Recognizing your dream and pursuing it is a big step forward. Don't let fear stop you from what you want. Take it one step at a time, believe in yourself, and remember others have succeeded on this path. You can achieve your dream of becoming a dentist.
Start by checking prerequisites for your chosen dental schools. Create a plan, even a rough one, and take that first step. You've got this!
Thank you so much for this! I now have a meeting with my advisors to see where to go. Thank you so much for ur advice!!! 😄
Tabtia
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