2 answers
2
Asked 2514 views

If I were to become an orthodontist, which STEM field would be the most beneficial to major in for my undergrad?

I am a high school senior and plan on becoming an orthodontist. I know that your undergrad degree doesn't have to be of a specific major, but it is recommended to major in a science. I am debating between biology (general) and biochemistry. Orthodontics is largely overlooked and it's difficult to find the answers online. #dentistry #stem #orthodontist #stem1

stem dentistry orthodontist stem1
Answer This

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you
2

2 answers

0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Amber’s Answer

I would recommend going to colgate.com and they have a great page on how to become an orthodontist. Most orthodontists get undergraduate degrees in biology or chemistry. The reason is because most dental schools require prereqs in biology and chemistry.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Steven’s Answer

If the question is: are certain majors looked upon more favorably than others, I cannot say. I have never been on the admissions committee of any dental school, let alone an orthodontic program. I do think that it's safe to say that once you are into dental school and presumably doing well, what your undergraduate major was is very unlikely to carry any real importance when you are applying to orthodontic programs.
As far as dental school is concerned, there is something to be said about having a well-rounded education, including humanities. If you're already inclined to follow a biology or biochemistry major, either will be a good preparation for dental school. For that matter, a major in the physical sciences is just fine (I was a chemistry major).
I should point out that AFAIK all dental schools will require you to take a basic biochemistry course. While it may be possible to get advanced placement, I've never heard of it being done. (As an aside, I took 2 years of college chemistry in high school--including biochem, but failed to get placement in college. This meant I got to take basic biochemistry THREE TIMES--with an abridged version of the same text I'd used as an undergraduate when I got to dental school.) So in a way, it might be better to major in something you WON'T be getting again in dental school.
Good luck to you!
0