6 answers
Diana
Student
Rock Hill, South Carolina
1
Question
Asked
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Why should I look into being a dentist?
What is it like being a dentist? I'm in tenth grade and I skipped a grade. Around what age would I be able to start? What schools should I attend if I plan on leaving my state South Carolina.
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6 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Diana !
You should only look into becoming a dentist if you feel a very strong calling to it. Your heart, mind and everything will need to be into it. If that isn't the case now or at some time soon, you may want to look into other studies that you have a true feeling for. To be a dentist, you must have a strong interest in health, helping people maintain dental health and improve or prevent dental problems and an aptitude for science and extraordinary fine motor skills as you will be using your hands and fingers for extended periods in your work. If this is all acceptable to you, you just may be a candidate for dental school and headed toward a very satisfying career.
Although I am not a dentist, I would like to advise that every day as a dentist is different. It will depend on how your day goes, whether you work in a clinic, shared dental office, hospital emergency room or have your own private practice. It varies, so every dentist really has their own experience in their own way.
With eight years of schooling, you might be able to start being a dentist at age 22. I advise not taking any fast track studies for any medical or health services degree. You can start at age 22 if you've gone for your Bachelors degree without any breaks. After dental school, many go 2-3 years for a specialized residency training to learn special procedures, one being oral surgery. Other specialties are orthodontics, Endodontics, Periodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, and Prosthodontics. So if you go for additional training for the specialty residency, you will be able to start at the latest, age 25. It is a good idea to go the extra time for a specialty as your income potential will possibly increase as a specialist. Age twenty five is not a bad age to start your career.
I would have to say that if you leave your state to study, New York University School of Dentistry is one I can recommend as among the best. You will have to decide where you want to move to, though, and than explore schools in that area. If you want to relocate to where the best school is, I would say consider New York. People can suggest schools to you but you will have to make the final decision based on your finances, where you're willing to relocate to and after comparing several schools, make a choice that meets your needs.
I wish you all the best in whatever you choose for your future plans !
You should only look into becoming a dentist if you feel a very strong calling to it. Your heart, mind and everything will need to be into it. If that isn't the case now or at some time soon, you may want to look into other studies that you have a true feeling for. To be a dentist, you must have a strong interest in health, helping people maintain dental health and improve or prevent dental problems and an aptitude for science and extraordinary fine motor skills as you will be using your hands and fingers for extended periods in your work. If this is all acceptable to you, you just may be a candidate for dental school and headed toward a very satisfying career.
Although I am not a dentist, I would like to advise that every day as a dentist is different. It will depend on how your day goes, whether you work in a clinic, shared dental office, hospital emergency room or have your own private practice. It varies, so every dentist really has their own experience in their own way.
With eight years of schooling, you might be able to start being a dentist at age 22. I advise not taking any fast track studies for any medical or health services degree. You can start at age 22 if you've gone for your Bachelors degree without any breaks. After dental school, many go 2-3 years for a specialized residency training to learn special procedures, one being oral surgery. Other specialties are orthodontics, Endodontics, Periodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, and Prosthodontics. So if you go for additional training for the specialty residency, you will be able to start at the latest, age 25. It is a good idea to go the extra time for a specialty as your income potential will possibly increase as a specialist. Age twenty five is not a bad age to start your career.
I would have to say that if you leave your state to study, New York University School of Dentistry is one I can recommend as among the best. You will have to decide where you want to move to, though, and than explore schools in that area. If you want to relocate to where the best school is, I would say consider New York. People can suggest schools to you but you will have to make the final decision based on your finances, where you're willing to relocate to and after comparing several schools, make a choice that meets your needs.
I wish you all the best in whatever you choose for your future plans !
Andrey Perdue
Dental Hygienist
15
Answers
Destin, Florida
Updated
Andrey’s Answer
Hi Diana,
I don’t quiet understand your question. I am going to assume you have looked into dentistry as something you would enjoy.
You should never ask why you should choose a certain career if you don’t have a passion for it. Although there are a lot of pros in dentistry such as pay, schedule flexibility and never ending patient pool. You should also consider the downside. A lot of patients are anxious and do not like dental offices. Are you able to change their views and coach them through procedures? To do that you need to love dentistry.
Dentistry is physically demanding. You may think sitting in a chair for 8 hours a day in air conditioned space sounds like a cake job. However a lot of dentist have back and neck issue, that require constant medical attention. Arthritis and muscle aches are common as well.
As far as application process:
1. School acceptance rates are very low, they want the best of the best.
2. Applying to as many school as possible gives you a better options (apply only at school you know you will attend)
3. High DAT scores is a must!
4. You will need 4 year undergrad degree and at times you may need a masters to be competitive
5. You will have in person interview with school. This allows the faculty to see if you are a right fit for their program
If you not sure you want to be a dentist or any profession in that matter. I suggest you shadow/volunteer at an office to experience the flow of things.
Best of luck, let me know if I can help you with anything else.
I don’t quiet understand your question. I am going to assume you have looked into dentistry as something you would enjoy.
You should never ask why you should choose a certain career if you don’t have a passion for it. Although there are a lot of pros in dentistry such as pay, schedule flexibility and never ending patient pool. You should also consider the downside. A lot of patients are anxious and do not like dental offices. Are you able to change their views and coach them through procedures? To do that you need to love dentistry.
Dentistry is physically demanding. You may think sitting in a chair for 8 hours a day in air conditioned space sounds like a cake job. However a lot of dentist have back and neck issue, that require constant medical attention. Arthritis and muscle aches are common as well.
As far as application process:
1. School acceptance rates are very low, they want the best of the best.
2. Applying to as many school as possible gives you a better options (apply only at school you know you will attend)
3. High DAT scores is a must!
4. You will need 4 year undergrad degree and at times you may need a masters to be competitive
5. You will have in person interview with school. This allows the faculty to see if you are a right fit for their program
If you not sure you want to be a dentist or any profession in that matter. I suggest you shadow/volunteer at an office to experience the flow of things.
Best of luck, let me know if I can help you with anything else.
Hi Andrey! Thank you for your insight. Can you give some of the pros from your perspective, since you work in the dentistry field, so Diana can have a balanced view?
Sharyn Grose, Admin
Andrey Perdue
Dental Hygienist
15
Answers
Destin, Florida
Updated
Andrey’s Answer
Good morning! Here are some pros of dentistry
Here are some things I absolutely love about working in dentistry:
1. Hours! It’s 8-5 generally 4 days a week. However some office have Fridays or half day Fridays. This gives you opportunity to enjoy time with your family.
2. Pay. Pay for dental hygiene degrees is fantastic. It’s a 3 year degree that gives you a very good salary.
3. Ability to help people. You are a provider and help patients promote oral health, prevent oral disease and motivate patients to improve their oral care. Promoting oral health care also helps with overall health
4. Job opportunities . There are numerous openings for various dental positions in every state. The turn over rate is extremely low so you can expect to stay at the same office for 5+ years at a minimum.
5. Everyday is a new day. In my opinion everyday is a new day in dentistry. I have never had a day that was the same as previous week or month.
Here are some things I absolutely love about working in dentistry:
1. Hours! It’s 8-5 generally 4 days a week. However some office have Fridays or half day Fridays. This gives you opportunity to enjoy time with your family.
2. Pay. Pay for dental hygiene degrees is fantastic. It’s a 3 year degree that gives you a very good salary.
3. Ability to help people. You are a provider and help patients promote oral health, prevent oral disease and motivate patients to improve their oral care. Promoting oral health care also helps with overall health
4. Job opportunities . There are numerous openings for various dental positions in every state. The turn over rate is extremely low so you can expect to stay at the same office for 5+ years at a minimum.
5. Everyday is a new day. In my opinion everyday is a new day in dentistry. I have never had a day that was the same as previous week or month.
Flora Frangoudis, NJ CPA
Accounting
30
Answers
Morristown, New Jersey
Updated
Flora’s Answer
Diana, while I'm not a dentist, my daughter once considered this career path at your age, so we did extensive research together. Here's my advice: Use your summer break to gain hands-on experience in a dental office. This will give you a real feel for the profession, as you'll learn directly from dentists and hygienists.
Becoming a dentist typically requires at least eight years of education, much like any other medical field. This journey begins with a four-year undergraduate degree, followed by applying to dental school. However, some universities offer accelerated programs that can be completed in seven years. I suggest working with your high school counselor to identify suitable schools in your area and explore the different programs they offer. Remember, pursuing a medical degree demands discipline, dedication, and financial planning.
Wishing you all the best in your journey.
Becoming a dentist typically requires at least eight years of education, much like any other medical field. This journey begins with a four-year undergraduate degree, followed by applying to dental school. However, some universities offer accelerated programs that can be completed in seven years. I suggest working with your high school counselor to identify suitable schools in your area and explore the different programs they offer. Remember, pursuing a medical degree demands discipline, dedication, and financial planning.
Wishing you all the best in your journey.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6183
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Diana!
Thinking about a Dentistry Career?
Choosing dentistry as a career can be extremely rewarding for many reasons. Dentistry allows you to positively influence people's lives by enhancing their oral health and overall wellness. As a dentist, you get to help patients keep their smiles healthy, relieve their pain, and tackle various dental problems. Plus, dentistry is a well-respected, well-paid profession that offers job stability. Dentists have the freedom to work in different environments, like private practices, hospitals, research institutions, or public health agencies.
What's Life Like as a Dentist?
Back in 1980, I used to teach chemistry to dentistry students (ID116) at the university.
A dentist's life involves a mix of clinical work, patient interaction, and continuous learning. Dentists diagnose and treat oral health issues, carry out procedures like fillings, extractions, and root canals, and give preventive care and education to patients. They can also specialize in fields such as orthodontics, periodontics, or oral surgery. Dentists often collaborate with dental hygienists, dental assistants, and other healthcare professionals to provide all-around care to their patients.
Starting Age and Education
If you're in the tenth grade and considering a career in dentistry with the aim to fast-track your education, remember that becoming a dentist usually involves extensive education and training. After finishing high school or an equivalent program, future dentists typically get a bachelor's degree followed by four years of dental school. This means that most people start dental school in their mid-20s after completing their undergraduate studies.
Schools Outside South Carolina
If you're considering leaving South Carolina for your dental education, there are many reputable dental schools across the United States. Some highly-ranked dental schools include Harvard School of Dental Medicine in Massachusetts, University of California San Francisco School of Dentistry, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, and University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. These schools provide robust academic programs and clinical training to prepare future dentists for successful careers.
In summary, choosing a career in dentistry can be an intellectually challenging and personally gratifying journey for those passionate about oral health care. It demands commitment to education and training but offers the chance to make a real difference in people's lives through quality dental care.
Top 3 Reliable Reference Publications or Domain Names Used in Answering this Question:
American Dental Association (ADA): The ADA is a top source for information on dental education requirements, career prospects, and accredited dental schools.
U.S. News & World Report: This publication offers rankings and insights into the best dental schools across the United States.
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): AAMC provides valuable resources on medical and dental education pathways and requirements.
These sources were used to provide accurate and reliable information on pursuing a career in dentistry.
Blessings to You!
James.
Thinking about a Dentistry Career?
Choosing dentistry as a career can be extremely rewarding for many reasons. Dentistry allows you to positively influence people's lives by enhancing their oral health and overall wellness. As a dentist, you get to help patients keep their smiles healthy, relieve their pain, and tackle various dental problems. Plus, dentistry is a well-respected, well-paid profession that offers job stability. Dentists have the freedom to work in different environments, like private practices, hospitals, research institutions, or public health agencies.
What's Life Like as a Dentist?
Back in 1980, I used to teach chemistry to dentistry students (ID116) at the university.
A dentist's life involves a mix of clinical work, patient interaction, and continuous learning. Dentists diagnose and treat oral health issues, carry out procedures like fillings, extractions, and root canals, and give preventive care and education to patients. They can also specialize in fields such as orthodontics, periodontics, or oral surgery. Dentists often collaborate with dental hygienists, dental assistants, and other healthcare professionals to provide all-around care to their patients.
Starting Age and Education
If you're in the tenth grade and considering a career in dentistry with the aim to fast-track your education, remember that becoming a dentist usually involves extensive education and training. After finishing high school or an equivalent program, future dentists typically get a bachelor's degree followed by four years of dental school. This means that most people start dental school in their mid-20s after completing their undergraduate studies.
Schools Outside South Carolina
If you're considering leaving South Carolina for your dental education, there are many reputable dental schools across the United States. Some highly-ranked dental schools include Harvard School of Dental Medicine in Massachusetts, University of California San Francisco School of Dentistry, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, and University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. These schools provide robust academic programs and clinical training to prepare future dentists for successful careers.
In summary, choosing a career in dentistry can be an intellectually challenging and personally gratifying journey for those passionate about oral health care. It demands commitment to education and training but offers the chance to make a real difference in people's lives through quality dental care.
Top 3 Reliable Reference Publications or Domain Names Used in Answering this Question:
American Dental Association (ADA): The ADA is a top source for information on dental education requirements, career prospects, and accredited dental schools.
U.S. News & World Report: This publication offers rankings and insights into the best dental schools across the United States.
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): AAMC provides valuable resources on medical and dental education pathways and requirements.
These sources were used to provide accurate and reliable information on pursuing a career in dentistry.
Blessings to You!
James.
Vidhi Patel
Dentist
13
Answers
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Vidhi’s Answer
2 more years of high school, and then you have to do four years of pre-med then you will be enrolled in the dental school.
In school, you should have a good GPA, some type of extra curriculum and do volunteering. You should to shadow at a dental clinic so you have an understanding of how things actually are and that will also help with your dental school application , and most importantly you should be interested in the dental field. It’s a mixture of art, science, medicine and engineering.
The schools I would suggest is University of Michigan school of dentistry, UCLA, UCSF, NYU, Boston university Henry M Goldman, Indiana University School of Dentistry.
In school, you should have a good GPA, some type of extra curriculum and do volunteering. You should to shadow at a dental clinic so you have an understanding of how things actually are and that will also help with your dental school application , and most importantly you should be interested in the dental field. It’s a mixture of art, science, medicine and engineering.
The schools I would suggest is University of Michigan school of dentistry, UCLA, UCSF, NYU, Boston university Henry M Goldman, Indiana University School of Dentistry.