2 answers
2 answers
Updated
Caroline’s Answer
James’ answer is a great way to get started. Working in the dental field in general helps show dental/dental hygiene programs that you’ve done your research, are familiar with the field, and are dedicated to your future profession. Working as a dental assistant, dental lab technician, dental office manager or front office team member, etc. really stands out to dental admission programs. Taking science classes (especially extra classes beyond your pre-requisites) also shows that you can handle the challenging course load.
Updated
Dr. James’s Answer
I started off as a dental tech in the Army. I found a good site that should be able to answer your question.
https://www.themoneyalert.com/becoming-a-dental-hygienist/#:~:text=1%29%20Earn%20Your%20High%20School%20Diploma%20or%20GED,courses%20will%20also%20help%20prepare%20for%20the%20career.
https://www.themoneyalert.com/becoming-a-dental-hygienist/#:~:text=1%29%20Earn%20Your%20High%20School%20Diploma%20or%20GED,courses%20will%20also%20help%20prepare%20for%20the%20career.
Hi James, this is an interesting and unique route. Can you say more about how you became a dental tech with the army?
Gurpreet Lally, Admin
I started off in the Army as a dental assistant and then became a dental lab technician. I really enjoyed it. I had opportunities to travel a lot and meet a lot of people. Aside from dental assistant, there are other specialties you go also go into such as hygienist, x-ray, etc. Here are some links that will explain more:
https://www.operationmilitarykids.org/army-dental-specialist-mos-68e/
https://cool.osd.mil/army/enlisted/68e.htm
https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/career-match/science-medicine/general-care/68e-dental-specialist.html
Dr. James Zavala