How to Become a Dentist

“I wrote a song about dental floss, but did anyone’s teeth get cleaner?”  — Frank Zappa

Dentists are the medical professionals that specialize behind the most beautiful of smiles. Day after day, patient after patient, these medical individuals diagnose, treat, and prevent the most common and uncommon oral problems.  These problems can range from plaque build up to oral cancer.

But what does it take to be a dentist in the state of Ohio?

Enroll in a Bachelor’s Degree Program

Traditionally, those becoming aspiring dentists opt for a science-related or pre-dentistry majors to increase their chances of being accepted to dental school.  However, exceptions have been made for individuals who complete an undergraduate degree in an unrelated field.

Take the Dental Admissions Test

The Dental Admissions Test is an examination that grants a prospective dental school candidate admission to a college of dentistry.  The exam is five hours long, contains 280 multiple-choice questions, and its topics include natural sciences, mathematics, and perceptual ability.

Graduate from an Accredited Dental College

Upon completion of any pre-dentistry or science-related undergraduate programs and the Dental Admissions Test, a prospective dentist must graduate from an accredited dental college with either a Doctorate of Dental Surgery or a Doctorate of Dental Medicine.

The first 2 years of dental school encompasses a heavy general dental science curriculum. Upon the final 2 years of dental school, students must participate in clinical practicum and get hands-on experience in dental clinics under supervision.

Obtain Licensure

In the United States, all dentists must obtain a license to practice dentistry.  To obtain licensure, a dentist must take a 2-part exam covering dental science, ethics and clinical procedures given by the state.

Consider a Specialization

Finally, a prospective dentist must also declare a specialty with the American Dental Association (ADA) and the state in which they want to practice. The ADA recognizes 9 different specialty areas: Public Health Dentistry, Prosthodontics, Endodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Orthodontics, Periodontics and Pediatric Dentistry.  Becoming a specialist in dentistry usually entails an additional 2-4 year education and residency (depending on the state’s requirements) to obtain a specialty license.

At The Dental Center at Easton Town Center, Dr. Brad Gilmer graduated successfully with honors from THE Ohio State University and is currently a member of The American Dental Association, The Ohio Dental Association, The Columbus Dental Society, and The Chicago Dental Society.  With years of practical experience under his belt, you can rest assured that you are in caring and more-than-qualified hands.

Our highly experienced and welcoming dental staff in our office in Columbus Ohio deeply care about our patients.  The Dental Center at Easton provide only the best dental care at an affordable price for you and your family.  If you are due for a check-up, schedule an appointment with us, we would love to meet you; we want to make your visit as pleasant