How can I prepare for a career in dentistry/dental school?

Hello! I would suggest that, if you haven't already done so, ask your family dentist if you can shadow them at work! You can spend a few hours watching them interact with patients and doing the actual work of dentistry to see if it's something that you really want to do.

Also, if you have a Dental School anywhere near where you live, I would call them and ask to speak with someone in the admissions department. Pick their brain, ask them questions, ask if you can tour the school! I work at a Dental School in Detroit and we have students from local schools come by throughout the year for Dentistry programs that are organized through their schools. Maybe the guidance counselor at your high school knows of a program that works with a Dental School in your area.

If its your true passion and its what you truly want to do with your life, don't let anyone dissuade you! While Dental School can be expensive, there are a lot of ways to help you pay for it. You could join the Military, or look into The National Health Service!!! They are amazing! They are the only Non-Military Uniformed branch of the US Government. They generally work in under-served populations w/in the US like Indian Reservations. Check out their loan payment site: https://nhsc.hrsa.gov/loanrepayment/

I really wanted to join them when I graduated with my Dental Hygiene degree, but I was older than the requirements would allow, so I couldn't. It broke my heart.

Good luck to you and I hope I answered your question. Remember to keep your grades up as best as you can. If you are having trouble in a course, ask for help!!! You must have great grades to get into Dental School! Help and volunteer around your community too. You never know when that 1 network or connection you make will lead you to your next move!!!

Be great! Be yourself! Good luck!!!!

Hi, In order to get into a Dental School you need to get a bachelor degree first. So, you need to get into either a 4 year college or start with community college and then transfer into the 3d year in a 4 year college. It does not really matter what major you'll take. I studied with a lot of dental students who did not take major in biology or physiology, though it might be helpful. It is important to be a full time student or take even more than 12 units at a time to finish your premed studies in 4 years. I know a program in Pacific University in Stockton, CA where you can study just for 2 years and go to Dental School - University of Pacific Arthur Dugoni School of Dentistry. In this case you are guaranteed to be accepted and you also win 2 years of your life. You'll become a dentist in a younger age. You should not worry too much about paying back a loan. It is not a problem if you start working as a dentist. Don't stay, though, in big cities where are already too many dentists. Go to a small town and start either your own dental practice or begin as an associate at first. You'll be fine. Good luck to you!
Alla Zvonkina, D.D.S.

Good for you. It's a great profession. The other people that have answered your question have given you terrific advice. I would add to their answers that you need to fulfill specific educational requirements, especially in the sciences. You can contact the admissions departments of the schools you are considering applying to for a list of educational requirements. Get as broad an education as possible. And, extremely important, work hard for grades. Dental school admissions are quite competitive. Strive to be in the top 10% of your class by the time you apply. That means more study time, less party time (bummer). But it's worth it. Best of luck.